Top 10 Most LGBT-Friendly Places to Visit in Asia

LGBT Bear 8 min read

Embarking on a quest to uncover the most welcoming and inclusive destinations for the LGBTQ+ community in Asia, I immersed myself in vibrant cultures, landscapes, and unforgettable experiences 🌈 Here, you can relax and enjoy your vacation without worrying about discrimination or prejudice.

Asia offers a variety of LGBT-friendly destinations to explore that go beyond tolerance to embrace, celebrate, and foster a sense of belonging ✊ From the bustling cities to the beautiful sandy beaches; there are many options for travelers to feel welcome and comfortable. All of the top LGBT-friendly destinations in Asia are easily accessible and welcome everyone with open arms 🗣 Whether you're looking for exciting nightlife, cultural experiences, or simply a relaxing getaway, Asia has something to offer for everyone in the LGBT community.

So join me in exploring the Top 10 LGBT-Friendly Places in Asia, where acceptance meets celebration and diversity is acknowledged and cherished 🌈

#10 Hong Kong: Bridging Tradition and Modernity with LGBTQ+ Openness

Hong Kong, a vibrant metropolis where East meets West, has made significant strides in LGBTQ+ acceptance and celebration 🌈 Lan Kwai Fong and Soho, bustling nightlife districts, boast LGBTQ+ bars and clubs, creating an inclusive atmosphere. The Hong Kong Pride Parade, held annually, reflects the city's commitment to diversity and equality ✊

Hong Kong offers accommodations like The Upper House, and W Hong Kong is known for its LGBTQ+ friendly services. Immerse yourself in the LGBTQ+ nightlife at Zoo Bar and Petticoat Lane, and savor culinary delights at queer-friendly spots like Ozone or the Osteria Marzia.

Beyond the iconic skyline and bustling markets, Hong Kong invites LGBTQ+ travelers to experience a unique blend of tradition and modernity within an atmosphere of openness and acceptance 🌈

#9 Chiang Mai, Thailand: Northern Tranquility with LGBTQ+ Warmth

Chiang Mai, which is located in the beautiful northern mountains of Thailand, offers a tranquil escape with a warm embrace for the LGBTQ+ community 🌈 Nimmanhaemin Road and the Night Bazaar area host gay-friendly bars and clubs, creating a stunning night scene. Chiang Mai Pride, an annual LGBTQ+ celebration, showcases the city's commitment to inclusivity.

Chiang Mai is a top LGBT-friendly place offering many cheap to 5-star accommodation options ✊ Accommodations like 137 Pillars House and Raya Heritage ensure an LGBTQ+-friendly stay. Explore the LGBTQ+ nightlife at Ram Bar and Orion Bar, and savor Northern Thai cuisine at queer-friendly spots like David's Kitchen and Huen Muan Jai.

Chiang Mai invites LGBTQ+ travelers to experience the unique blend of cultural charm and inclusivity in the heart of Northern Thailand 🌈

#8 Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam: Southern Gem of Inclusivity

The French colonial architecture of Ho Chi Minh City and its bustling streets is carving a space for inclusivity in Vietnam. The District 1 area, particularly Bui Vien Street, is a vibrant hub for LGBTQ+ venues, offering a lively nightlife experience 🌈 The city's history, evident in landmarks like the War Remnants Museum, adds depth to exploring Vietnam's past and present.

Accommodations like The Reverie Saigon and Hotel des Arts Saigon MGallery provide the best LGBTQ+ friendly stay ✊ Apart from places to stay; there are many places to enjoy mouthwatering local and international cuisines. Ho Chi Minh City's LGBTQ+ community is making strides in visibility, creating an atmosphere where diversity is celebrated and embraced 🗣

#7 Ubud, Bali, Indonesia: A Tranquil Retreat for the LGBTQ+ Soul

While Indonesia faces challenges regarding LGBTQ+ rights, Ubud in Bali stands out as a tranquil retreat for those seeking acceptance and serenity ✊ Even though explicit LGBTQ+ venues may be limited, Ubud's inclusive atmosphere and lush landscapes create a safe haven.

Bali, a magnet for tourists, has many places for short- and long-term stays. Accommodation options such as Ubud Hanging Gardens or the Alila Ubud offer a serene stay for LGBT travelers 🗣 Exploring the Monkey Forest, traditional markets, and the iconic Tegallalang Rice Terraces and immersing yourself in Bali's natural beauty is a must 🌈

Ubud invites LGBTQ+ travelers to find solace and connection with the rich cultural heritage that surrounds them 🌈

#6 Shanghai, China: A Progressive Hub in Eastern Inclusivity

Shanghai, a modern metropolis, stands out as a progressive hub in China with a growing LGBTQ+ scene 🌈 The lively Xintiandi district hosts LGBTQ+ venues, ensuring an active nightlife experience. ShanghaiPRIDE, the city's annual LGBTQ+ festival, is a testament to the community's resilience and visibility ✊

Although Shanghai offers many accommodations for every budget, places like The Langham, Shanghai, or The Puli Hotel and Spa are best suited for LGBTQ+ travelers 🌈 Immerse yourself in the nightlife at Lucca 390 and Eddy's Bar, and savor culinary delights at XTD Elevated or Mercato.

Shanghai invites travelers to witness a modern China that breaks stereotypes and fosters acceptance, making it the fifth of the top 10 most LGBT-Friendly places to visit in Asia 🗣

#5 Phnom Penh, Cambodia: A Hidden LGBT Oasis in Southeast Asia

Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia, quietly emerges as a hidden gem for LGBTQ+ travelers in Southeast Asia 🌈 Street 136 is a burgeoning hotspot for queer-friendly venues, creating a welcoming space for locals and visitors alike. Cambodia's LGBTQ+ community hosts the Cambodia Gay Pride Parade, reflecting the country's evolving attitudes.

Accommodation options in Phnom Penh are like Rambutan Resort, and the White Mansion Boutique Hotel offers an LGBTQ+ friendly stay. Enjoy the night scene at Space Hair Salon and Love Pub, and relish local flavors at Romdeng or Friends the Restaurant. Phnom Penh invites visitors to explore its rich history while embracing a future where love knows no boundaries ✊

#4 Seoul, South Korea: Navigating Change in a Dynamic City

Seoul, the dynamic capital of South Korea, is gradually becoming an increasingly inclusive destination for the LGBTQ+ community 🌈 Itaewon, the international district, hosts a variety of LGBTQ+ bars and clubs, marking the city's progress in fostering acceptance. The annual Seoul Queer Culture Festival is a significant event that highlights the LGBTQ+ community's growing visibility ✊

Accommodation options such as Andaz Seoul Gangnam and Aloft Seoul Myeongdong ensure a welcoming stay for LGBTQ+ travelers 🌈 Explore the LGBTQ+ scene at Homo Hill, and Why Not? Bar and savor authentic Korean cuisine at the queer-friendly Suji's Restaurant or Maple Tree House.

Beyond the bustling cityscape, Seoul offers a rich history reflected in landmarks like palaces and temples, creating an atmosphere where diversity is celebrated and embraced. That is why Seoul is number 4 on our list of the top 10 most LGBT- friendly places to visit in Asia 🗣

#3 Taipei, Taiwan: Pioneering Equality in the Heart of Asia

Taiwan, a pioneer for LGBTQ+ rights in Asia, proudly shines through its capital, Taipei, as a beacon of acceptance and celebration. Recognized as the first Asian country to legalize same-sex marriage, Taiwan boasts a progressive attitude towards the LGBTQ+ community ✊ Ximending district, considered the LGBTQ+ hub, is adorned with rainbow flags featuring queer-friendly cafes, boutiques, and clubs. The annual Taipei Pride Parade, Asia's largest, is a testament to the island's commitment to equality 🌈

Accommodations like W Taipei and Hotel Quote Taipei extend a warm welcome to LGBTQ+ travelers 🗣 Immerse yourself in lively nightlife at Café Dalida or Triangle Club, and relish the diverse flavors at Woolloomooloo Xinyi or the queer-friendly Cafe Philo.

Taipei invites LGBTQ+ travelers to explore its vibrant culture, progressive values, and breathtaking landscapes, making it one of the top 10 most LGBT- friendly places to visit in Asia 🌈

#2 Tokyo (Japan): Neon Dreams and Open Hearts

Tokyo, the vibrant capital of Japan, stands as a testament to the harmonious coexistence of every tradition and modernity, extending a warm embrace to the LGBTQ+ community 🌈 Shinjuku Ni-chome, often called Tokyo's "gay district," is a lively neighborhood adorned with rainbow flags, hosting an eclectic mix of LGBTQ+ bars and clubs. Tokyo Rainbow Pride Parade, Asia's largest pride festival, transforms the city into a kaleidoscope of love and inclusivity.

Accommodation options like Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo and Hotel Niwa Tokyo are known for their LGBTQ+-friendly atmosphere. Delve into the night at iconic venues like New Sazae and Gold Finger, and savor the culinary excellence at queer-friendly spots like Fabb Cafe ✊ Whether exploring the historic temples of Asakusa or immersing oneself in the spirited youth culture of Harajuku, Tokyo offers a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity, making it a welcoming haven for LGBTQ+ travelers.

#1 Bangkok (Thailand): The Rainbow Capital of Southeast Asia 🌈

Krung Thep Maha Nakhon (Bangkok), the bustling capital of Thailand, emerges as a vibrant hub that warmly welcomes the LGBTQ+ community ✊ Silom Soi 4, known as Bangkok's gay district, pulsates with life, boasting an array of electrifying bars, clubs, and LGBTQ+ friendly spaces that create an electric atmosphere of inclusivity. The city annually hosts the Bangkok Pride Parade, a dazzling display of colors and celebrations that go beyond boundaries 🌈

Accommodations such as The Siam Hotel and Sofitel Bangkok have gained a reputation for their LGBTQ+ friendly havens, offering not just comfort but an embracing atmosphere 🗣 Delve into the night at iconic venues like Maggie Choo's or the legendary DJ Station, and savor the culinary delights at queer-friendly Tangerine Restaurant or Zuma Bangkok.

Beyond the lively nightlife, Bangkok's rich cultural tapestry, from the Grand Palace to the bustling street markets, provides a diverse and welcoming backdrop for all travelers, making it the number one top 10 most LGBT- friendly places to visit in Asia ✊

Explore the LGBT-Friendly Places in Asia Today!

As we conclude our journey through these Top 10 LGBT-Friendly Places in Asia, it becomes clear that each destination is a vibrant chapter in the larger narrative of love, acceptance, and celebration 🌈 From the bustling streets of Bangkok to the serene retreats of Ubud, these places not only embrace diversity but also provide a plethora of LGBTQ+ spaces, from nightlife to accommodations and dining experiences.

As we continue to explore the world, let these destinations be an inspiration for a future where love triumphs over prejudice and acceptance reign supreme ✊ Travel is not just about the places we visit; it's about the connections we make and the acceptance we find along the way, reshaping our understanding of diverse societies and the beauty that lies in their inclusivity 🗣

🏳️‍🌈 LGBT Vocabulary Time

Cherished
: to protect and care for someone

Embarking
: to begin or take a course of action

LGBTQIA+
: mostly known as lesbian (L), gay (G), bisexual (B), transgender (T), intersex (I), queer/questioning (Q), asexual (A), and many other terms (such as non-binary, pansexual, etc.)

Plethora
: a large or excessive amount of something

Remnants
: a part or quantity left after the greater part has been used, removed, or destroyed