My Life in Japan as an Openly Gay Foreigner
Homosexuality has a long and documented history in Japan, but somehow most people who identify as LGBT would still rather keep their sexuality under wraps. Allow us to share with you one person's perspective on the coming out experience here.
Same-Sex Couples to Be Recognized in Sapporo
Following on the heels of Shibuya and Setagaya Wards of Tokyo, Sapporo will become the largest city in Japan to recognize same-sex couples.
A Primer on Japanese Homoerotic Manga
Yaoi or Bara? GL or BL? And what about Yuri? If you're feeling confused by all the jargon, follow us through the complex world of homoerotic manga. You're in for some surprises!
Naha Recognizes Same-Sex Couples
Okinawa's colorful and tropical capital city just got even more rainbow-friendly.
Love Knows No Boundaries
Equal Wedding Japan offers traditional Japanese wedding ceremonies to all nationalities, genders, and sexual orientations in locations like on a Noh stage or in a samurai village.
Ueno Gets a New & Elegant Crossdressing Bar
Open to crossdressers, trans women and men, and guests of any gender, Bar☆Onna no Ko Club promises to be a fun space where people can easily drink, talk, make new friends, and dress up if they choose to.
History of Same-Sex Samurai Love in Edo Japan
Thinking about samurai conjures up images of swords, honor, battles and blood. Chances are, homosexual relationships didn't enter your mind... until now.
36 Kisses, 9 Boys, 1 Great Music Video
This Japanese boy band is taking the internet by storm with their infamous 'Shadow Kiss' music video, featuring all nine of the members giving each other smooches.
Apartment Hunting Made Easier for LGBT Renters
Finding an apartment in Japan is difficult enough, but trying to find a landlord who supports the LGBT community means you could spend weeks hunting for the perfect apartment. However, one realtor is making it easier on people in the LGBT+ community.
5 Japanese LGBTQ+ Films That Explore Sexual Diversity
Learn more about the diverse representation of Japanese sexuality and the LGBTQ+ community in Japan through these films..
Of Love & Law: Japan’s First LGBT Law Firm
Filmmaker Hikaru Toda is working on an intriguing documentary about Fumi & Kazu, who run the first openly gay law firm in Japan.
Japan's 1st Transgender Man Elected to Office
In March 2017, Japan elected its first openly transgender man to public office who drew on his own experiences of isolation during his campaign.
How to Draw Intimate 'Boys Love' Scenes
From hugs to piggybacks and intimate kisses, this reference manual is filled with romantic male-on-male BL scenarios.
Inside the Secret World of Japan's LGBT+ Slang
Around the world, every language and culture has evolved to add jargon relating to the LGBT+ community, and Japan has its own words too. We'll teach you a few terms you may hear around the country—if you're listening carefully.
Same-Sex Couples Can Now Be Foster Parents
One of the most populous cities in Japan has granted a same-sex male couple the right to raise a foster child. Is this a one-off, or has the precedent been set?
All About Stonewall Japan
Tokyo Rainbow Pride is back again for 2017! LGBT+ organisation Stonewall Japan reminisces its history with the festivities from its humble beginnings.
Panasonic to Recognize Same-Sex Marriage
Already a pioneer in the consumer electronics market, Panasonic is now a trailblazer for the equal rights of its employees regardless of sexual orientation.
Life in Japan for a Trans Woman
As part of our 'Life in Japan' feature, we endeavor to feature people in Japan from all different walks of life. And we were very lucky to learn about the daily life and challenges of a transgender woman living and working in Tokyo.
