Gay japan
Homosexuality In Japan: A Surprisingly Colourful History
In and out of battle, the Samurai loved a excellent 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) shape that soured their outlook on lgbtq+ 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 partner – 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 entitle of spiritual purity but acknowledged sexual desire was normal. There was no shaming, confession, or penance. Ironically, while Buddhism appreciated the synergy of a same-sex dalliance (“You scratch my help, I’ll scratch yours”) women were still considered – in no uncertain terms – evil and treac
Detours Gay Travel Blog
Gay Samurais and Organism Queer in Japan: What You Require to Know
Japan is an awesome place with a affluent culture, delicious diet, 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 unusual 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 fondness , such as holding hands with your partner in universal, regardless of your sexuality, is not the norm. 🈲
While being gay is not illegal, male lover 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 homosexual 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
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 contemporary city, with neon-lit skyscrapers, but on the other, it’s very traditional with historic temples and palaces, like 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 homosexual bars and clubs can be found. It is famous for having the world’s highest concentration, with over 300 tiny queer bars crammed together in unassuming, unremarkable blocks. Some of the most famous include Arty Farty, Annex, FTM Bois Bar, 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 town until 1869 when it was moved to Tokyo. It has retained its regal charm, with stunning temples and intricate gardens. The most famous are the Golden Temple, Kinkaku-Ji, and the Silver Temple, Ginkaku-Ji. Other highlights
Media vs Reality - Creature gay or unique in Japan
Recently I've been adorable curious what it's prefer to be gay in Japan and how homosexuality is viewed there. I read a few articles and watched a several 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 show up 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 attempt 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 woman loving woman people in Japan. They're so rare that some people believe that homosexuality is just a fantasy th