If you’re planning your next escape and looking beyond the usual hotspots, gay holidays to Asia are becoming more popular—and for good reason. Across the continent, countries are slowly opening up to LGBT+ travellers, offering a mix of cultural depth, natural beauty, and inclusive experiences.
Whether you’ve been on gay holidays before or this is your first time,
Asia can be a place of both discovery and comfort. The key is knowing where to go, what to expect, and how to travel with confidence.
Let’s take a closer look at the most inclusive destinations for gay holidays to Asia, and how Wide Awake Holidays can help you experience them with ease.
1. Thailand: Culture, Comfort, and Connection
Thailand has long been considered one of the most welcoming Asian destinations for LGBT+ travellers. From the urban buzz of Bangkok to the beach towns of Phuket and Koh Samui, there’s a growing number of gay-friendly hotels, spas, and wellness centres.
The annual Songkran celebrations and Pride events attract visitors from across the world. Gay bars, cabaret shows, and saunas are well-established in major cities, but what makes Thailand stand out is the kindness of the people.
Ask us about resort packages in Patong Beach or luxury retreats in Chiang Mai.
How Gay Friendly is Thailand?
- Legal since: 1956 (decriminalised)
- Marriage equality: Not yet recognised; civil partnerships proposed
- Discrimination protections: Partial; limited legal safeguards
- Employment rights: Some private sector protections
- Equal age of consent: Yes
- Public opinion: Widely tolerant in cities, neutral in rural areas
2. Taiwan: A Pioneer in Progress
If you want to experience a destination that blends innovation with inclusion, Taiwan is a top choice. It became the first Asian country to legalise same-sex marriage in 2019 and has maintained a reputation for being progressive.
Taipei hosts one of Asia’s largest Pride festivals, and the city is dotted with gay bars, art spaces, and boutique hotels. Taiwan’s food scene is also unmatched, and many LGBT+ travellers return for both the warmth and the welcome.
Let us tailor a city and culture package that includes both Taipei and scenic day trips.
How Gay Friendly is Taiwan?
- Legal since: 1987
- Marriage equality: Legal since 2019
- Discrimination protections: Yes, strong laws in place
- Employment rights: Fully protected
- Equal age of consent: Yes
- Public opinion: Largely positive, especially among younger generations
3. Japan: Tradition Meets Modern Acceptance
Japan is a fascinating blend of old and new. While same-sex marriage isn’t yet legal, attitudes among the younger population are shifting fast.
Tokyo’s Ni-Chome district is the largest gay neighbourhood in Asia, packed with bars, cafés, and nightclubs. Beyond the capital, Kyoto, Osaka, and Fukuoka are also home to growing LGBT+ communities.
Cultural respect is central to Japanese society, so you’ll feel welcomed, even if local customs are more reserved.
We can arrange trips that combine city experiences with nature escapes and cultural excursions.
How Gay Friendly is Japan?
- Legal since: 1880 (with periods of complexity)
- Marriage equality: Not legal, but partnerships recognised in some districts
- Discrimination protections: No national law, but local initiatives exist
- Employment rights: Vary by region and company
- Equal age of consent: Yes
- Public opinion: Mixed but improving, especially in urban areas
4. Nepal: Himalayan Hospitality
Nepal might surprise you. In 2007, it became the first South Asian country to decriminalise homosexuality, and it now recognises a third gender on official documents.
Kathmandu’s
Blue Diamond Society has been active in promoting LGBT+ rights for over a decade. The country’s natural beauty—think trekking, temples, and tea houses—makes it a great choice for adventurous travellers.
For a truly unique experience, ask us about trekking routes that include LGBT+-owned lodges and guides.
How Gay Friendly is Nepal?
- Legal since: 2007
- Marriage equality: Not yet legal
- Discrimination protections: Yes, included in the constitution
- Employment rights: Generally positive, though not widely enforced
- Equal age of consent: Yes
- Public opinion: Respectful but conservative in rural areas
5. Vietnam: Fast Progress, Warm Smiles
Vietnam is emerging as one of the most promising destinations for gay holidays to Asia. While same-sex marriage is not legal, the government removed the ban in 2015 and there’s been a notable shift in public sentiment.
Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City both have visible queer scenes, with gay-friendly hotels, bars, and creative spaces. The country’s affordability and stunning landscapes—from Halong Bay to the Mekong Delta—only add to its appeal.
We offer curated cultural itineraries with stays in inclusive accommodations.
How Gay Friendly is Vietnam?
- Legal since: 2000 (decriminalised)
- Marriage equality: Not legal but not banned
- Discrimination protections: No specific protections
- Employment rights: Limited
- Equal age of consent: Yes
- Public opinion: Generally tolerant, especially in tourism areas
