Is it ok to be gay in japan
The Same-sex attracted of the Samurai All About Homosexuality, Buddhist Monks, Samurai, and The Tokugawa Middle Class
Remember the popular scene in The Last Samurai where Ken Watanabe and Tom Cruise make sweet, tender love? You don’t? Well, perhaps if the story had been more rooted in reality we could have seen that happen.
As it turns out, pre-modern Japan was exceptionally accepting, even encouraging, of male homosexuality and bisexuality. Much like that period we found out that bushido is actually modern-day made-up bullshit, this might surprise you. To be honest, it surprised me, too. I came upon this information while researching an article (still to come) about the current state of the LGBT community in 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 current 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 same-sex attracted 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 capital until 1869 when it was moved to Tokyo. It has retained its regal charm, with lovely temples and intricate gardens. The most famous are the Golden Temple, Kinkaku-Ji, and the Silver Temple, Ginkaku-Ji. Other highlights
Japan
This guide also has safety advice for regions of Japan.
Terrorism
There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay alert of your surroundings at all times.
UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your peril from terrorism while abroad.
Terrorism in Japan
Terrorist attacks in Japan cannot be governed out.
Political situation
Civil disturbance and violent demonstrations are rare in Japan. Occasionally, there are pro-nationalist demonstrations that express hostility towards foreign countries. If you become aware of protests, leave the area immediately.
Japan and the Korean Peninsula
The level of tension and security situation in the Korean Peninsula can modify with little notice. Tensions can rise after missile tests by North Korea and during the regular South Korea-US military exercises, which take place throughout the year.
North Korea frequently launches missiles towards Japan as part of missile testing, a
A Guide to Homosexual Bar Etiquette in Japan
Tokyo’s famous homosexual district, Shinjuku Ni-Chome, has one of the world’s uppermost concentrations of LGBT-friendly businesses. For the most part, it’s a place where first-timers can hook out without needing to worry too much about unique customs or cultural knowledge.
Ni-Chome is used to tourists but, those who need to sneak into smaller, more local LGBT bars might find some cultural practices surprising. In Japan, manners are everything, so here are some insider tips on what to expect when visiting LGBT bars off the thrashed path, and how to get the most out of the experience.
Venturing away from westernized lgbtq+ bars
Photo by: Alex Rickert Sometimes you wanna go where everybody knows your name, but sometimes you gotta project into the unknown.
Most gay bars in tourist spots favor Ni-Chome or Doyamacho in Osaka mimic American-style bars that feature large shot bars, dance harmony and dark atmospheres where customers of various sexes, genders, sexualities and identities can drink and make merry. You can certainly discover these kinds of bars, especially in Tokyo, but the vast majority are similar to what is commonly referred to as a スナックバー