Love and Romance in the Middle Kingdom: A Curated Collection of Guide Books on Dating in China

Dating in China has never been straightforward. From the pressures of “marrying early” (早婚, zǎo hūn) to the rise of digital matchmaking, from the complexities of intercultural relationships (跨文化恋爱, kuà wén huà liàn ài) to the legal battles over marriage and property, love in China is a labyrinth of tradition, technology, and modernity.

Dating in China (Part 5)- LGBTQIA+ in China, Queer Visibility, Rainbow Love, Sex, Rights, Challenges, and Triumphs

For those seeking to understand the nuances of Chinese romance—whether as a local, an expat, or a curious observer— the books listed on this page offer invaluable insights. This curated collection explores the best reads on dating in China, covering everything from online dating trends and women’s empowerment to legal pitfalls and cross-cultural love stories.

Whether you’re navigating the dating apps of Shanghai (上海约会软件, Shànghǎi yuē huì ruǎn jiàn), grappling with gender expectations (性别期望, xìng bié qī wàng), or simply curious about how love has evolved in a rapidly changing society, these books will guide you through the complexities of modern Chinese relationships.

Let’s dive in.