Their laws and perceptions of sexuality and gender identity are some of those things that rarely reach mainstream media.
This isn’t an issue for most of the population, but it can be alarming if you are someone who is a part of the LGBTQIA+ community and wants to travel there.
The lack of information can be off-putting for someone who might be worried about their safety while visiting any foreign country.
However, we have good news for you! Japan is very welcoming to those in the community, and an overwhelming majority of 68% of the population is in favor of accepting homosexuality.
As such, a lot of the culture of Japan is reflective of the acceptance and love of its queer population.
Is Japan LGBTQIA+ Friendly?
Japan is a country that is friendly and open to anyone in the LGBT community.
The majority of the population is in favor of accepting homosexuality, and only 22% are against.
People in the community are allowed to openly serve in the military, and same-sex unions (not marriages) are recognized.
However, there are no laws to protect citizens in the LGBT community from being discriminated against in the workplace or in housing.
With that being said, however, Japan is, for the most part, a very open country. In cities such as Tokyo and Osaka, there are plenty of opportunities and areas specifically for queer people.
We will be taking a look at what you might expect as a queer person visiting Japan, the best places to visit, and a few important things to remember.
What You Might Expect
If you’re visiting Japan as someone who is openly queer, you are likely to experience nothing but love and acceptance from people.
Of course, we can never speak for everyone, but experiences are typically very positive.
You are very unlikely to be discriminated against because of your gender identity or sexual orientation.
With that being said, there are a number of places that specifically draw in the queer crowd.
The gayborhoods, as many like to call them, are incredibly popular places made with queer people in mind.
These places are primarily for people who live there, however, and as a foreigner visiting Japan, finding and being allowed access to these places can be very challenging.
The Best Places To Visit As Someone In The LGBT Community
There are some great areas to visit if you’re part of the community. We will take a look at these places below so that you can start planning your next trip to Japan!
It’s worth mentioning that accessing these places are a lot easier if you speak Japanese. For anyone who isn’t familiar with the language (and etiquette), accessing these top spots is super difficult.
Tokyo
It comes as no surprise that Tokyo takes the cake for the best place to visit as someone in the LGBTQIA+ community.
Generally, weekdays are pretty quiet and clubs and bars in the city will be empty by 10pm.
However, if you want an exciting night, make a point to visit on the weekends – you might be out until 5am!
Shinjuku’s Ni-Chome is probably the most well-known area in Tokyo for its queer nightlife. Here, there are probably hundreds of bars and clubs for people in the community.
Most famous is the red-light district, northeast of Shinjuko Station.
Here, there are nightclubs, restaurants, parlors, bars, and even love motels.
Looking for a taste of Mexican on your trip? You need to visit a restaurant called Rainbow Burritos – it fits in perfectly! If you find that place packed, heading over to CoCoLo Cafe is a must.
For anyone who wants to get started exploring everything that Tokyo has to offer, starting at Aiiro Café seems to be a great spot.
It’s open to everyone, and once you meet a few friendly people, you’ll be in for a great tour.
There are also night tours available in Shinjuku – especially for the queer population!
What else could you want to settle your doubts about whether Japan is LGBT friendly?
Looking for some more great places to visit in Tokyo? Bar Gold Finger is an aptly named lesbian bar that’s worth checking out when you have a moment.
Once you feel like a change of scenery, hopping over to Adezakura is the best logical option.
When you’ve had enough talking and want to get dancing, visit Arty Farty.
Yes – the Japanese are excellent at naming things. You could also visit Dragon Men when you’ve sweat all your sake out. Only then, can you wind down for the night.
Tokyo Pride
There’s also no forgetting Tokyo Pride. This celebration can gather over 50,000 people, and it’s an incredible sight to behold.
So, if you’re visiting Japan at the right time of year, you can take part in a huge pride parade and enjoy all the celebrations.
Osaka
Listed as the must-see destination for LGBTQIA+ travellers, Osaka has it all.
Doyama is the local gay district, and is home to an incredible nightlife such as clubs and bars.
G Physique is one of those bars you need to visit! Just upstairs of G Physique is Explosion – the top spot.
You can even spend some time with the stunning Drag Queens and have an unforgettable experience.
You can also get in touch with an English-speaking guide to show you around all the best spots, too.
No matter where you go, you can be sure that you will come across some drag performers who will show you a good time.
If you’re a lesbian, or just want to check out a lesbian bar, wander over to WaaGwaan and enjoy the cocktails.
After that, why not some karaoke at Frenz Frenzy? There are plenty of relaxing spots to chill at, too, like Shippo. Lady Killer is also a great event to find your way to – a ladies only party that takes place monthly!
Some Important Things To Remember
Japan takes etiquette and standards very seriously.
If you want to have the best experience possible, you need to know which rules you should follow and what not to do. For example, public displays of affection are a big no-no in Japan.
We’re not saying that someone will jump out of the bushes and beat you if you hold hands in public, but it is generally frowned upon.
In fact, everything to do about love, sex, and gender identity is considered to be a purely private matter. This is why Japan is so open!
It’s also worth noting that if you visit any of the onsens (bath houses), there are rules and regulations to keep up with.
Hygiene is important, and you need to know how to act.
The vast majority of these bath houses are still split into male and female groups as well.
This means that they might not be the most comfortable experience for everyone who wants to take a soak.
If you want to get around this, it would be a good idea to rent a separate room, or visit an LGBTQIA+ friendly house that is more inclusive.
Final Thoughts
Japan is a very LGBTQIA+ friendly country, and it has a lot to offer.
The cities have bustling nightlife that anyone can enjoy (though it is easier if you know the language), and there’s a lot to experience.
If you want to see everything you can, it’s a great idea to make some local friends who will be willing to take you on a tour to all the best spots.
Hi, I’m Jason Patrick, and for as long as I have been alive, I have been obsessed with Japanese culture. From the sights and sounds of Japan’s many cities to its culinary delights that have become famous worldwide, I simply cannot get enough of this wonderful nation!
I hope that, by exploring this website, you all will develop a much deeper appreciation for Japan, and that it may even influence you to pay it a visit yourself eventually! It is definitely a trip of a lifetime, and whether you experience it firsthand, or through my own website, I’m sure you will become just as passionate as I always have been!
