LGBTQ
In Japan, LGBTQ Protections Depend on Which Town You Live In
Japan just approved its first national LGBT plan. But with no anti-discrimination law and partnership certificates that carry no legal force, a…
equality
LGBTQ
INSIDER
[Insider] The Worst Person You Know Has a Point About Japan’s AV Law
Few prominent figures or politicians in Japan are willing to talk about the negative impact the law has had on Japan's porn…
SEX & NIGHTLIFE
21 Soaplands Shut Overnight, Leaving Japanese Sex Workers High and Dry
The incident highlights the shift in sex-related businesses in Japan - and the precarious situation of sex workers.
INSIDER
[Insider] Japan’s Polls on an Empress Miss an Important Distinction
Princess Aiko is very popular. Many wouldn't mind her becoming Empress. But critics say the polls are misleading. And they're right.
POLITICS
Japan Confirms Ainu Indigenous Rights After Right-Wing Politician’s Statement
Ainu rights are in the news again after the head of the Conservative Party of Japan questioned their indigenous status.
WOMEN
Tokyo Court: Employer Had “No Duty” To Stop Sexual Harassment at After-Work Drinking Party
A lack of evidence and the quasi-official nature of nomikai led a court to rule against a company that tried to do…
INSIDER
[Insider] Japan’s First Female PM Doesn’t Want an Empress
Takaichi Sanae has signaled she opposes changing the law to allow for an empress to rise again. And the Japanese Diet seems…
FOOD
Japan’s Ramen Shops Repel Women. One Store Wants to Change That
70% of women surveyed in Japan don't feel comfortable going into a ramen shop alone. Here's why - and how one store…