Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender (LGBT) in Tokyo

Information on groups, social clubs and links for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender men and women in Tokyo...

The cosmopolitan city of Tokyo has a well-developed gay scene. The most popular area is Shinjuku Ni-chome. This area has a high density of gay bars. There are several other well-established gay areas in Tokyo; however, Ni-chome is the most popular.

  • More information about Shinjuku 2-Chome can be found on their website (in Japanese)

There is no law against homosexuality in Japan; same-sex weddings or civil unions are not performed in Japan itself but they are recognised if performed in other countries. This recognition also extends to the issuance of visas for same-sex partners and spouses.

Gay Media in Tokyo

  • Badi: Monthly men's gay magazine published in Japanese
  • Gay Japan News: Website. mostly in Japanese, providing a news service and specialising in gathering LGBT news from around the world

Gay Associations and Groups in Tokyo

  • akta: Gay community centre that focuses on HIV/AIDS prevention and information
    At: Nakae Building 3F, 2-15-13 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-0022
    Tel: 03 3226 8998
    email

  • Tokyo Rainbow English Speaking Society: English conversation gathering for LGBT people and LGBT-friendly straight men and women.

  • Tokyo Wrestling: Lesbian group promoting art, fashion and lifestyle.
    email

LGBT support

OCCUR Helpline: Non-profit organisation providing telephone counselling and support for the LGBT community, information and advice about homosexuality, HIV and AIDS.

Gay Events in Tokyo

Asian Queer Film Festival: Biannual film festival focussing on Asian independent gay films. It started in 2007 and usually runs over two consecutive weekends.

Tokyo International Gay and Lesbian International Film Festival: Annual film festival with film premiers, documentaries and short films. The event generally takes place in September.

Tokyo Rainbow Pride Parade: Annual gay pride parade with the aim of raising awareness of LGBT issues in Japan.

Tokyo Rainbow Festival: Large gay festival in Shinjuku 2-chome held every year in mid-August.