China is a country of contrasts: serene temples and ancient traditions stand alongside cutting-edge technology, modern pop culture, and bustling megacities. I traveled through China for over two months and from East to West and North to South I discovered a tapestry of landscapes, cultures, and histories. I also explored what it means to travel here as a member of the LGBTQ+ community. China has an array of sights and traveling around is quite easy thanks to an ever-growing fast train network and domestic flights (both extremely on time), connecting every corner of this gigantic country. Speaking mandarin or traveling with someone that can speak it is highly recommended as English is not yet widely spoken, especially in smaller towns and rural areas. This is a lesser problem in big cities like Beijing or Shanghai that account for large expat communities. Of course an organized tour with a guide can take all these issues away. A translation app is always a good idea, as is getting a VPN and a Wi-Fi for travelers (like Holafly) as some websites and apps are restricted (WhatsApp, Google..) with local Wi-Fi networks.
China is a very big country and I advise to choose first of all which region/s to visit and allow for enough time to enjoy each place. There is in general more to discover than one might think than the famous cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Xi’An, Hong Kong. There are a myriad of places that you most likely never heard of that will blow your mind for their beauty, history, attractions, and their friendly people.
Taking just a few examples I will mention: Zhangzajije, famous for its towering sandstone pillars that inspired the landscapes in Avatar; Chongqing, this sprawling metropolis is a sensory overload: neon-lit skyscrapers, cable cars gliding above its river, and endless stairs winding into hidden neighborhoods; Guilin and its karst mountains and winding rivers offering an unique fairy-like landscape; Kashgar, that for over two millennia, has been a vital hub on the Silk Road. Walking through Kashgar’s Old Town is like stepping into a living museum: winding alleys of mud-brick houses, intricate wooden balconies, and spice-scented air drifting from open markets; and then Pyngiao, Suzhou, Lijiang, Dali, Shangri-La, the list sounds endless and every sight is a surprise.
Now a particular mention for Hong Kong (English widely spoken), where skyscrapers tower over bustling markets and Victoria Harbour sparkles at night. Hong Kong is one of Asia’s most LGBTQ+ friendly cities. Here, Pride parades, LGBTQ+ film festivals, and openly LGBTQ+ venues make the city a beacon of inclusion in the region. From rooftop bars in Central to drag shows in Mong Kok, Hong Kong may feel liberating especially after weeks of navigating more discreet spaces. The city’s mix of British colonial heritage and Chinese tradition creates a unique, open-minded atmosphere perfect for unwinding and celebrating.
Being LGBTQ+ in China: What Travelers Should Know 🌏
🏳️🌈🌈China is a country of contrasts where ancient traditions still live alongside ultra-modern skylines, and the same can be said for its LGBTQ+ reality. Homosexuality was decriminalized in 1997 and removed from the list of mental illnesses in 2001, yet there are still no laws recognizing same-sex marriage or protecting against discrimination nationwide. Public displays of affection between same-sex couples are rare, and activism can be restricted. That said, urban hubs like Shanghai, Beijing, Chengdu, and Guangzhou have vibrant (though mostly underground) LGBTQ+ communities, with bars, clubs, and annual events like ShanghaiPRIDE (though currently on pause). Apps such as Blued or Grindr are the main ways locals connect, especially outside major cities. For travelers, safety is less about physical danger and more about discretion. It’s generally fine to book rooms as a same-sex couple, but smaller hotels in rural areas might question it — so larger, international hotels are often the easiest choice. Public affection is uncommon across the board in China, even for heterosexual couples, so subtlety is the cultural norm.
China’s LGBTQ+ scene thrives in private spaces, creative events, and close-knit networks. With openness, cultural sensitivity, and local connections, you can find a warm welcome — and a deeper understanding of how love and identity adapt in this fascinating, fast-changing society.
Valentin
Global Travel Designer
About the Author & Horizonways Travel
Valentin Borriello (he/him) is a global Travel Designer with over 20 years of experience curating journeys for discerning travelers worldwide. Through Horizonways Travel, he specialize in designing tailor-made itineraries that celebrate authenticity, inclusivity, and cultural connection. With a strong focus on LGBTQ+ clients, families, couples, and small groups, Valentin creates unique travel experiences that combine comfort, discovery, and a personal touch. His mission is to open doors to the world—safely, luxuriously, and meaningfully. View IGLTA member profile.