Join us on a tour of Taipei’s LGBT Pride to discover the milestones in Taiwan’s LGBT rights movement. Explore significant places and visit the unique Rabbit God Temple.
Join us on a tour of Taipei’s LGBT Pride to discover the milestones in Taiwan’s LGBT rights movement. Explore significant places and visit the unique Rabbit God Temple.
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Taipei City Hall - Begin the tour by meeting the guide at MRT Zhongxiao Xinsheng Station, then proceed to the first destination, the Rainbow Starting Line, a pavement artwork located at Taipei City Hall Square.
The “starting line” stretches from the city hall to Taipei City Council, symbolizing the legalization of LGBT rights and promoting equality…
- Taipei City Hall - Begin the tour by meeting the guide at MRT Zhongxiao Xinsheng Station, then proceed to the first destination, the Rainbow Starting Line, a pavement artwork located at Taipei City Hall Square.
The “starting line” stretches from the city hall to Taipei City Council, symbolizing the legalization of LGBT rights and promoting equality and respect. It also marks the starting point of Taiwan LGBT Pride in October, akin to a starting line on a running track leading to a better world.
- Shuiyuan Market - Before exploring National Taiwan University, take a stroll around Shuiyuan Market and Gongguan Shopping District near the campus. Named after the district’s former name “Suidocho (water source)”, the exterior of the Shuiyuan Market building was designed by Israeli artist Yaacov Agam. From different angles, this stunning geometric artwork reveals a unique visual effect, resembling a rainbow on sparkling water, representing the city’s diversity and inclusivity.
- Gongguan Shopping Area - Besides the remarkable artwork, Shuiyuan Market and Gongguan Shopping District are popular among students for dining, offering hidden culinary gems at reasonable prices.
- Treasure Hill Artist Village - Behind Shuiyuan Market, you can find Treasure Hill Artist Village. Named after Baozangyan Temple (literally treasure hill temple), the village was initially a settlement for military veterans. After refurbishment, it has been transformed into art studios and exhibition spaces, maintaining a harmonious coexistence with the local community. It was praised by a New York Times report as one of Taipei’s must-see locations.
- National Taiwan University - National Taiwan University is not only Taiwan’s top university but also the first to establish a gay student club. The campus is a popular tourist spot, featuring iconic attractions like “Royal Palm Boulevard”, the library, and “Drunken Moon Lake”. The university is dedicated to gender diversity, with numerous student clubs such as Lambda Club, Women’s Studies Society, Gay Chat, BDSM Club, etc., promoting equality and diversity within the school, community, and society.
- Gin Gin Store - The next stop is the renowned Gin Gin Store, the first LGBT culture shop in Asia and the Chinese society. Established in 1999, it offers LGBT-related forums, exhibitions, and more, creating a supportive and safe space for the LGBT community, and has become a spiritual icon in the LGBT rights movement.
- 威明堂 - 兔兒神廟 - Another highlight of this tour is the “Rabbit God Temple”, the only temple dedicated to the Rabbit God, the deity overseeing marriage and relationships for homosexual people. The temple embraces the idea that love has no labels, welcoming everyone to pray for a good marriage or finding a soulmate. Visitors can bring candies, snacks, or skincare products to worship the Rabbit God, and may also request an amulet to strengthen relationships or find true love.
- 228 Peace Memorial Park - 228 Peace Memorial Park is not only a memorial for the 228 Incident victims but was also a major gathering place for gay men in the past. Formerly known as “Taipei New Park”, it was a significant site in Taiwan’s gay literature; the Japanese garden landscaping, pond, and stone arch bridge are where stories unfolded. In recent years, the government has actively promoted gender equality, constructing the “Rainbow Gate” in 228 Peace Memorial Park to reflect history and advocate for gender neutrality.
- Ketagalan Boulevard - Each year, Ketagalan Boulevard serves as the gathering point for the Taiwan Pride parade in October. Here, the achievements in supporting LGBT rights and the indomitable spirit of activists throughout history are celebrated.
- Ximen Red House - Ximending - The tour concludes at Ximending Shopping District. The iconic “Rainbow Six” is a pavement artwork symbolizing respect, equality, and diversity, and has become a popular Instagram hotspot attracting visitors from across the country and overseas.
Across the street is the “Red House”, a well-preserved 3rd class historic site. Initially the first government-operated market during Japanese rule, it was later used as a theater post-World War II. Today, the Red House is a cultural and creative space for exhibitions, performances, and local souvenirs. The weekend bazaar in the north square is a popular shopping destination, offering unique and quirky crafts by local artists.
- Ximen Red House Outdoor Bar Area - Behind the Red House is the famous Ximen Red House Outdoor Bar Area, home to the most popular gay bars and restaurants. It offers a glimpse into gay nightlife, with people socializing and relaxing in the outdoor seating area from evening until midnight. Regardless of origin or identity, everyone is welcome to sit and enjoy the lively atmosphere. There are no labels or judgments, only authenticity.
The tour concludes at Ximen Red House Outdoor Bar Area. Enjoy the night and have a great time!
- Professional licensed tour guide
- In-vehicle air conditioning
- Local general liabilities insurance
- Professional licensed tour guide
- In-vehicle air conditioning
- Local general liabilities insurance
- Food and beverage
- Gratuities
- Food and beverage
- Gratuities
October recognises the notable progress in upholding LGBT rights, coinciding with Asia’s grandest pride parade, the Taiwan LGBT Pride. Taiwan is distinctive in legalising same-sex marriage and stands as a leader in championing LGBT rights in Asia. It is also devoted to boosting LGBT tourism. The capital, Taipei, is known as Asia’s most LGBTQ-friendly…
October recognises the notable progress in upholding LGBT rights, coinciding with Asia’s grandest pride parade, the Taiwan LGBT Pride. Taiwan is distinctive in legalising same-sex marriage and stands as a leader in championing LGBT rights in Asia. It is also devoted to boosting LGBT tourism. The capital, Taipei, is known as Asia’s most LGBTQ-friendly city, replete with gay bars, nightclubs, queer lifestyle shops and more.
This journey takes you to crucial locations in Taiwan’s LGBT rights narrative, such as the Rainbow Starting Line, National Taiwan University, Gin Gin Store, 228 Peace Memorial Park, Ketagalan Boulevard, the Red House and Rainbow Six in Ximending.
Furthermore, there will be a trip to the “Rabbit God Temple”, the sole temple devoted to the Rabbit God. This deity oversees marriage and relationships for those in the homosexual community.
- Ensure you carry enough cash with you to cover your expenses for meals, beverages, souvenirs, tips, etc. Convenience stores and most of the eateries in Taiwan don’t accept credit cards as a form of payment.
- Not recommended for travelers with physical disabilities.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.