SOCIETY
Osaka Station’s “Exclusion Art”: Hostile Architecture Comes to Kansai
Why did 150 concrete blocks outside JR Osaka Station spark outrage? We explore the divide in Japan's "exclusion art" debate.
human rights
SOCIETY
RACE IN JAPAN
Hokkaido University Apologizes for a Century of Ainu Remains Research
After many years of calling its actions "extremely regrettable," Hokkaido University has finally apologized for how it handled Ainu remains.
RACE IN JAPAN
Hundreds Rally at Japan’s Diet Against Anti-Foreigner Politics
The rallies are a response to both anti-foreign sentiment and specific policies, such as changes to the business manager visa.
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…
LGBTQ
Tokyo Court Awards Damages to Outed Transgender Author
Award-winning author Li Kotomi won a small but symbolic ruling against a lawyer who had been involved in the Aum Shinrikyo trials.
LGBTQ
“Love Wins”: Marriage Equality Advocates in Japan Press Case Ahead of Supreme Court Ruling
As Japan's Supreme Court prepares to hear a pivotal case on marriage equality, a local advocacy group launches a "Love Wins"-themed campaign.
LGBTQ
Osaka High Court: Japan’s Family Registry Discriminates Against Non-Binary People
An Osaka High Court ruling found that Japan's gender-binary family register violates Article 14 of the Japanese Constitution. But it dismissed the…
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.