Your guide to the best Shanghai gay bars, LGBT venues and events

Shanghai stands as a dazzling metropolis like Beijing, a symphony of neon lights, historic narratives, and futuristic aspirations. This city is a chameleon, changing its colors from the ancient alleys of the Old City to the sky-piercing marvels of Pudong.

Its split personality takes its cues from Shanghai’s geography. Split by the Huangpu River, you’ll find Pudong to the east (mostly high rises and business) and Puxi (with most of the good stuff) to the west. With 26+ million residents, you’ve got plenty of places to go and people to meet. As the financial center of China, Shanghai pulses with international flair and cutting-edge vibes. This cosmopolitan playground is home to a thrilling, albeit cozy, gay scene that's is growing faster than you can say, "Nǐ hǎo!"

While there’s no single queer neighborhood, the French Concession area (west of the Old City) gives you a great start with Shanghai gay bars. Here, the spirit of Shanghai’s cosmopolitan past blends with a laid-back, almost European charm and is a great place to start your queer adventures. There are group of small gay and queer bars in this area called "French Concession Gay Triangle," but they are commonly shut down, and then reopen in different locations to stay afloat.

LGBTQ+ recommendations in Shanghai

Asia Blue

Located in the heart of Shanghai's gay scene, Asia Blue is a delightful hidden gem and a true veteran of the city's LGBTQ+ nightlife. It’s never overly crowded, which makes it a great place to chat with friends or lovers. With room to breathe, sip on your drink, and strike up a conversation, what's not to love? The crowd is a wonderfully eclectic mix of all genders, ages, and sizes, creating a melting pot of fabulousness. Gay-owned and operated, the charming owner Andy is always around to ensure everyone feels right at home.

Hunt (formerly Happiness 42)

Stepping into Hunt is like entering a brilliantly red, fabulous wonderland. The bar, adorned with intricate and classic Chinese art, is the ultimate spot to mingle and dance the night away. It boasts a more upscale vibe than many other spots, making it a magnet for a diverse LGBTQ+ crowd who appreciate a bit of class without the chaos. With events like open mic nights, drag performances, and open-bar service throughout the week, there’s always something to spice up your evening.

Rice Bar 

The perfect hangout spot for those who prefer a more laid-back pre-drinking scene. It's like your best friend's living room, only with an impressive cocktail menu. Sure, there are drinks aplenty, but the atmosphere is all about cozy conversations and chill vibes. Their Alaskan Iced Tea and other creatively crafted cocktails are a must-try!

Roxie

The premier Shanghai lesbian bar, it's the go-to spot for women who want to enjoy specialty cocktails and themed events. The staff is welcoming, and the drink specials are on point. The crowd is mostly women in their 30s and up, making for a mature and engaging atmosphere. Weekends are when Roxie truly shines, bustling with energy and fabulousness.

ANGEL

Is the name on all party goer's lips. These legendary gay parties, often held on weekends, can pop up anywhere in the city, so keep your eyes peeled. Their Heaven party series is particularly iconic, promising a night of revelry with a sea of hot, half-naked guys. Check their Facebook page for the latest party details and prepare to dance the night away!

Shanghai's Pride parade (started in 2009) was setting the bar for gay events all around the country. Shanghai was growing more into a global scene for the LGBTQ+ community. However, in 2020 Shanghai Pride was put on hiatus and is currently waiting to be started again, but will let you know when it begins again.

Get a WeChat account.

Many of the apps and anything Google related are blocked by the government or requires a VPN to access. The alternative is WeChat, which will help you find up-to-date information about the Shanghai gay bars and LGBTQ+ nightlife.

By day, most of the city’s historic sites are also in Puxi. And for shopping, Yuyuan Bazaar, Huaihai Road Market, or Nanjing Road are great spots for deal-making. Delight your taste buds in Shanghai's culinary scene, a smorgasbord of flavors where traditional dumplings meet avant-garde fusion cuisine. Make sure to try out the Chinese delicacies in Shanghai - Xiaolongbao (steamed meat bun prepared in a bamboo basket), Cifantuan (glutinous rice dish wrapped in fried dough with sweetened milk), and the delicious Hong Shao Rou (red braised pork belly dish). If you love chicken, make sure to try out Beggar's Chicken (dish of chicken that is stuffed, wrapped in clay and lotus leaves or banana or bamboo leaves that is cooked for hours). And when it's time for a tranquil escape, the city's lush gardens and art galleries offer serene sanctuaries.

The Yu Garden, an exquisite example of Ming Dynasty landscape design, offers a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle. With its dragon-lined walls, jade-water ponds, and timeless pavilions, it’s a place where time slows down, inviting you to ponder the beauty of now. Another magical spot to visit - The Jade Buddha Temple - is a Buddhist temple in Shanghai, founded in 1882. It features two jade beautifully crafted Buddha statues imported to Shanghai from Myanmar.

The Shanghai Museum is a popular Chinese museum and holds many rare cultural pieces that can only be seen here, especially if you are an ancient art lover. Shanghai Ocean Aquarium should be on your list due to its 168-meter tunnel that takes visitors through a coastal reef experience, open ocean concept, kelp cave, shark cove, and a coral reef, which is one of the longest in the world!

For those looking to venture a bit further, the serene water towns around Shanghai, like Zhujiajiao or Qibao, offer a glimpse into a lifestyle unchanged by time. These “Venices of the East” are perfect for a day trip, where ancient bridges arch over tranquil canals and life moves at the rhythm of oars gently dipping into water.

Shanghai is a city where every narrow alley and towering skyscraper tells a tale. It's a place where you can experience Chinese cuisine and delicacies, adventure to fantastic markets, and explore more than just the best gay clubs in Shanghai. So pack your bags and let Shanghai's blend of history and modernity show you what China is all about!