Asia / Australia
Gay China
LGBTQ+ Travel Guide & City Directory
LGBTQ+ Legal Status in China
Based on national laws as of 2025
Homosexuality decriminalised in 1997 under revised Criminal Law. Removed from the official Classification of Mental Disorders in 2001 — a landmark step at the time. No legal recognition of same-sex partnerships, civil unions or marriages. No adoption rights for same-sex couples. No federal anti-discrimination protections covering sexual orientation or gender identity. Legal gender change is possible in limited circumstances (requires medical diagnosis and, in most provinces, surgical interventio
LGBTQ+ Cities in China
11 CitiesShanghai
Shanghai
24,900,000 residents
Beijing
Beijing
21,900,000 residents
Guangzhou
Guangdong
16,100,000 residents
Shenzhen
Guangdong
13,400,000 residents
Chengdu
Sichuan
9,100,000 residents
Chongqing
Chongqing
8,700,000 residents
Wuhan
Hubei
8,200,000 residents
Xi'an
Shaanxi
7,200,000 residents
Chengdu Shi
Lanzhou Shi
Wuhan Shi
Gay Map of China
Gay China on YouTube
Chengdu Hotpot, Gay Nightlife & Hidden Gems You Can’t Miss!
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Frequently asked questions about LGBTQ+ travel in China
Attitudes toward LGBTQ+ travelers vary by region and city within China. Major cities and tourist destinations are usually more welcoming than rural areas. Check the city pages on this site for venue-level reviews from LGBTQ+ travelers who've recently visited.
Marriage equality law varies — see the Legal Status panel on this page for the current position in China, including civil unions, anti-discrimination protections, and any recent changes.
The cities listed on this page have the most active LGBTQ+ scenes in China — typically the capital and the largest tourist cities. Each city page links to verified bars, hotels, saunas and upcoming Pride events.
Most cities in China hold Pride between May and September — see each city page for the exact dates and the GayOut event calendar for the current year's parades and circuit parties.
Yes — gay-popular and gay-friendly hotels are listed on each city page in China, with current prices and reviews. International hotel chains in capitals are reliably welcoming; smaller boutique hotels are flagged when verified LGBTQ+-friendly by the community.
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