Within the huge realm of LGBT journey locations in Asia, Taiwan has usually discovered itself overshadowed by its extra mainstream counterparts. Nevertheless, this pleasant island nation in East Asia affords excess of simply gorgeous landscapes and a vibrant tradition.

Certainly, Taiwan stands out as Asia’s most LGBTQ+-friendly nation, making the capital, Taipei, a must-visit for any traveller in search of inclusivity and acceptance.

Although at first look Taiwan might not scream “LGBTQ+ paradise”, this vacation spot has made outstanding strides in embracing range and making a welcoming surroundings for all. In 2019, it marked a historic milestone by changing into the primary nation in Asia to legalise same-sex marriage. This groundbreaking transfer signalled a significant societal shift in the direction of better acceptance, paving the best way for a extra inclusive journey expertise.

A vibrant hub of LGBTQ+ tradition and nightlife

For LGBTQ+ travellers in search of a vacation spot that celebrates love in all its kinds, Taiwan beckons with open arms. Taipei, the island’s bustling capital, is a vibrant hub of LGBTQ+ tradition and nightlife. The progressive environment and full of life spirit of the sprawling metropolis make it a vital port-of-call for these trying to immerse themselves in a metropolis that completely blends conventional and trendy.

As you traverse Taipei’s streets, you’ll shortly uncover town’s wealthy tapestry of LGBTQ+ institutions. The epicentre of town’s queer scene is the Ximen Crimson Home Theatre, situated within the historic but ultra-modern Ximending procuring district. The sprawling Crimson Home advanced, nestled amid neon-lit skyscrapers, serves as a focus for LGBTQ+ tradition, with its trove of bars, eating places and cafés all specified by shut proximity. It’s the right place to sip a night cocktail whereas people-watching.

Taiwan Satisfaction

Taiwan Satisfaction, held yearly in Taipei since 2003, is notable as Asia’s largest Satisfaction celebration, attracting guests from around the globe — notably these from neighbouring international locations who don’t have any Satisfaction celebrations of their very own. Regardless of being held within the autumn, Taiwan is usually sunny all 12 months spherical, that means it has that typical summer time Satisfaction environment everyone knows and love.

What makes Taiwan Satisfaction stand out from others, although, is its environment. There are not any route limitations, that means anybody can hop in or out of the parade as they need. And it really is a day for everybody, with all corners of the neighborhood — and past — seen and sharing their love.

A mix of outdated and new

Taipei is really a metropolis that blends outdated and new, with its myriad temples standing beneath smooth skyscrapers — together with the long-lasting Taipei 101, as soon as the world’s tallest constructing standing at over 500 metres. Ascending to its observatory affords you a panoramic view of the complete metropolis, set towards a backdrop of inexperienced, rolling hills — that are excellent for mountain climbing.

And, in fact, Taiwan’s meals scene alone is definitely worth the journey. Taipei’s evening markets like Shilin and Raohe are residence to an infinite array of tantalising road meals, from pungent tofu to beef noodle soup. That’s to not point out the world-famous bubble tea — a Taiwanese creation that’s now present in virtually each metropolis worldwide.

Learn on to find 10 highlights of Taipei and why it deserves to be your subsequent Asian vacation vacation spot.

1 Longshan Temple

Expertise Taipei’s non secular range at Longshan Temple, one of many oldest and most vital temples within the metropolis. Marvel on the intricate structure, witness conventional rituals, and take in the non secular ambiance.

2 Yangmingshan Nationwide Park

Nature lovers will discover solace in Yangmingshan Nationwide Park, situated only a quick drive from Taipei. This expansive park affords sizzling springs, mountain climbing trails, and picturesque landscapes, offering a serene distinction to town’s city hustle.

3 Nationwide Palace Museum

Immerse your self in Taiwan’s wealthy historical past and tradition on the Nationwide Palace Museum. Residence to an intensive assortment of artifacts spanning 5,000 years, the museum affords a captivating journey by means of centuries of artwork, craftsmanship and dynastic historical past.

4 Ningxia Night time Market

Taipei is legendary for its many evening markets, however this is without doubt one of the metropolis’s greatest. You possibly can pattern a wide selection of native delicacies that outline Taiwan’s road meals tradition — to not point out the distinctive environment.

5 Beitou

This charming district is understood for its sizzling springs and makes the right day journey or in a single day keep. View the steam from the open-air Thermal Valley springs and deal with your self to a conventional sizzling spring expertise in one of many space’s many spas.

6 Ximending

The town’s bustling leisure and procuring district can be the center of its LGBTQ+ nightlife scene. Head right here after darkish for relaxed people-watching, numerous eating decisions, or all-night clubbing — the world has all of it.

7 Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Corridor

Pay homage to Taiwan’s political historical past on the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Corridor. This grandiose corridor, flanked by the Nationwide Theatre and Nationwide Live performance Corridor, commemorates the previous president and supplies a serene retreat within the coronary heart of town.

8 Rabbit God Temple

This distinctive Taoist temple in an unassuming workplace constructing is devoted to Tu’er Shen, a deity related to homosexual love and intercourse. Folks come right here to offer choices and pray for a profitable love life — although anybody is welcome.

9 Taipei 101

A go to to Taipei isn’t full with out marvelling on the iconic Taipei 101, a towering image of modernity. Ascend to the statement deck for panoramic views of town, then benefit from the plethora of high-end shops and eating places downstairs.

10 Dihua Road

Step again in time by wandering by means of this historic space lined with conventional retailers and buildings. Notably vibrant throughout festivals, this road affords a glimpse into Taipei’s previous, whereas nonetheless embracing its current.

For extra data on visiting Taiwan, take a look at the official Taiwan Tourism web site.