Taiwan
Taipei is Asia's LGBTQ+ capital — the first city in Asia to legalise same-sex marriage (2019), home to the continent's largest Pride parade, and a city of extraordinary energy, street food, and warmth. The Red House in Ximending is the hub of Taipei's gay scene, but LGBTQ+-welcoming venues are found throughout the city, and the Taiwanese culture of hospitality extends an exceptional welcome to queer visitors.
Taipei's LGBTQI+ scene is centred around the Red House (西門紅樓) in Ximending, a historic octagonal market building surrounded by gay bars and cafes. The outdoor plaza is a social gathering point, particularly on weekends. Nearby streets in Ximending — Taipei's youth and pop culture district — are young, creative, and broadly LGBTQI+-friendly.
Taipei Pride (台灣同志遊行) takes place in late October or early November and is consistently the largest Pride event in Asia, drawing over 130,000 participants. The parade runs through central Taipei and has a reputation as one of Asia's great queer events, drawing international visitors specifically for the occasion.
Taipei is a city built around food. The night market culture — Shilin, Raohe, Ningxia — is world-class. Taiwanese street food (beef noodle soup, scallion pancakes, bubble tea) is delicious and cheap. The city has excellent public transport, is extremely safe, and has a warm culture that makes it easy for first-time visitors.
October and November are ideal — cooler, less humid, and Pride month. Spring (March–May) is pleasant. Summer is hot and humid with typhoon risk. October is widely considered the best month overall.
Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) is the main gateway, about 40 minutes from central Taipei by Airport MRT. Taipei's MRT is clean, efficient, and comprehensive — the essential way to get around. The EasyCard works across MRT, bus, and YouBike cycle share.
Taipei is one of the safest cities in Asia for LGBTQI+ travellers. Taiwan has marriage equality, strong legal protections, and a broadly accepting social culture. Public displays of affection are welcomed throughout the city. The Red House precinct in Ximending is the heart of the gay scene and completely relaxed.
Taiwan is the most LGBTQ+-friendly destination in Asia. Same-sex marriage became legal in 2019 — the first in Asia. Taipei Pride is the largest in Asia. The culture is welcoming and progressive, particularly in urban areas.
