Gay japan
LGBTQ+ Travel Guide to Japan
Interesting Cities to Visit in Japan
TOKYO
Tokyo is the capital, and main transport hub of Japan. On one hand it’s a very modern city, with neon-lit skyscrapers, but on the other, it’s very traditional with historic temples and palaces, appreciate the Meiji Shinto Shrine and the Imperial Palace. Tokyo is also a foodie’s paradise, with many small izakayas (small gastro pubs) and the world’s largest fish market, Tsukiji. Shinjuku Ni-Chõme is where the city’s queer bars and clubs can be start. It is eminent for having the world’s highest concentration, with over 300 tiny gay bars crammed together in unassuming, unremarkable blocks. Some of the most famous contain Arty Farty, Annex, FTM Bois Prevent, Campy!, Aiiro, Dragon Men and Leo Lounge. Read more about Tokyo from Passport Magazine >>
KYOTO
Kyoto is the cultural capital of Japan, and was the former capital city until 1869 when it was moved to Tokyo. It has retained its regal charm, with beautiful temples and intricate gardens. The most celebrated are the Golden Temple, Kinkaku-Ji, and the Silver Temple, Ginkaku-Ji. Other highlights
Homosexuality In Japan: A Surprisingly Colourful History
In and out of battle, the Samurai loved a nice sword fight.
While the history of homosexuality in Japan is a nuanced topic, it’s worth noting the ancient Samurai and other Japanese openly indulged in same-sex shenanigans. It was only our Western (and specifically Christian) influence that soured their outlook on gay culture, but today, things are once again looking up! Read on for more.
The Religious Paradox
As old as Japan itself, Shintoism has been around since 1000 BC. This spiritual tradition believes all people are fundamentally good, and that sex – regardless of your boyfriend – is an expression of love. Certain Shinto gods, especially Hachiman, Myoshin, Shinmei and Tenjin were even considered guardian deities of man-on-man sex.
Shinto tradition was soon followed by Buddhism, which encouraged abstinence in the label of spiritual purity but accepted sexual desire was normal. There was no shaming, confession, or penance. Ironically, while Buddhism appreciated the synergy of a lgbtq+ dalliance (“You scratch my help, I’ll scratch yours”) women were still considered – in no uncertain terms – evil and treac
Media vs Reality - Existence gay or unique in Japan
Recently I've been lovely curious what it's enjoy to be gay in Japan and how homosexuality is viewed there. I read a few articles and watched a rare Youtube videos and this is basically what I gathered. From what I read/heard, it isn't unsafe to be gay or lesbian in Japan. It isn't considered a sin or anything, so if you were to appear out, chances are people won't react with hatred or animosity. They'll probably just say "Oh, I see." and leave it at that. However, even though there's no hostility toward the LGBT, very few people understand them or make an strive to understand them. In a lot of media, gay people are portrayed in a very stereotypical fashion (effeminate) and many people just believe that to be what a gay man is; it'd be difficult for a Japanese person to be able to distinguish between a gay man and a trans person. To them, they're all just okama. Because of this and because of pressure from society to be a certain way, there are very very scant openly gay or dyke people in Japan. They're so rare that some people believe that homosexuality is just a fantasy th
Detours Gay Travel Blog
Gay Samurais and Entity Queer in Japan: What You Require to Know
Japan is an awesome place with a affluent culture, delicious nourishment, lively nightlife, and stunning natural scenery! 🗻 If you’re an LGBTQ+ traveler like us, you’ll be happy to know that it’s one of the safest spots in Asia, with very friendly locals and a low crime rate.
Harmony and tradition are highly treasured here. One singular difference between Japan and Western society is the value they place on the whole identity instead of the individual.
Because of that, Japan’s tradition is very conservative and private. (See our recent blog on tattoos in Japan here for more info.) Widespread displays of warmth, such as holding hands with your partner in universal, regardless of your sexuality, is not the norm. 🈲
While being gay is not illegal, lgbtq+ marriage is not officially recognized at a national level. Some cities, such as Tokyo, are more progressive and acknowledge same-sex partnerships.
So, while navigating lgbtq+ life here can be a bit of a patchwork experience, Japan stands out as one of the more LGBTQ+ friendly countries in Asia, with plenty of social