Detours Gay Travel Blog
Gay Samurais and Being Queer in Japan: What You Need to Know
- Detours
- Apr 30, 2025
Japan is an awesome place with a rich culture, delicious food, lively nightlife, and stunning natural scenery! 🗻 If you’re an LGBTQ+ traveler like us, you’ll be happy to know that it’s one of the safest spots in Asia, with very friendly locals and a low crime rate.
Harmony and tradition are highly valued here. One unique difference between Japan and Western society is the value they place on the whole identity instead of the individual.
Because of that, Japan’s culture is very conservative and private. (See our recent blog on tattoos in Japan here for more info.) Public displays of affection, such as holding hands with your partner in public, regardless of your sexuality, is not the norm. 🈲
While being gay is not illegal, gay marriage is not officially recognized at a national level. Some cities, such as Tokyo, are more progressive and acknowledge same-sex partnerships.
So, while navigating queer life here can be a bit of a patchwork experience, Japan stands out as one of the more LGBTQ+ friendly countries in Asia, with plenty of social opportunities for gay travelers. Just keep it fun and enjoy the unique vibe, and respect their cultural traditions! 🌈
Samurai: Swords, Honor, and Romance
The Samurai were known to cross swords on... and off... the battlefield. 🤭Same-sex relationships among samurai were common and celebrated. There were brothels where men could enjoy other men openly and without risk of society turning on them. Culturally, same-sex love between men was seen as perfectly normal. ⚔️❤️
Spiritual Vibes and Queer Acceptance
Japan had its own way of viewing love and sex — basically they were very chill about it. Shintoism, Japan’s indigenous faith which is as old as Japan itself, believes people are naturally good and that sex of any kind is an expression of love.
There was no guilt or shame; just good times had by all. Some Shinto gods, like Shinmei, Myoshin, Hachiman, and Tenjin, were seen as protectors of male-on-male love.
When Buddhism was introduced, Japan’s society became less sexually open. Buddhism preached celibacy for spiritual growth, but it did not shame people for having sexual desires.
The Meiji Restoration: Enter the West
In 1868, Japan underwent the Meiji Restoration, ending the Tokugawa shogunate and returning control to Emperor Meiji, marking the start of significant political, economic, and social change.
The Meiji period (1868–1912) saw rapid modernization and Westernization, with the introduction of trains and factories, alongside a shift toward more Christian moral values that reshaped cultural norms.
This transformation led to the criminalization of same-sex love, which had previously been accepted, fostered a shift towards puritanism and turned open sexual practices into secrets. While Shinto and Buddhism remained prevalent, the era marked a striking transition in Japan's societal values amidst its modernization.
Queer Japan Today
Japan is currently experiencing a queer renaissance as many cities, particularly the larger ones like Tokyo, embrace and celebrate LGBTQ+ culture more openly than ever before. The vibrant atmosphere is showcased by lively pride parades and dedicated gay districts that serve as safe havens for self-expression and acceptance. 🏳️🌈🎉
However, it is important to note that the queer scene varies significantly from city to city, and across different regions of the country. Each locale brings its unique flavor, influenced by local customs and attitudes towards sexuality.
Larger, bustling cities like Tokyo have large, thriving communities with a variety of events, venues, and opportunities for connection. Smaller towns may have a more subdued, traditional, and conservative populace, but are always welcoming to their guests. With its diverse destinations, Japan offers gay travelers authentic, unforgettable experiences.
Queer Nightlife
If you haven’t explored queer cultures in other countries before, bar etiquette in Japan may be slightly different than what you’re used to. 🍶
Unlike traditional Western gay bars that often feature a short bar and dancefloors, the more common types of bars found in Japan are called “snack bars.” These are intimate spaces that prioritize cozy, intimate atmospheres and personal connection rather than the high-energy vibe of conventional nightclubs.
At snack bars, patrons are welcomed by a “mama,” the owner or manager, who, in gay bars, is typically a man or a drag queen. The Mama and their staff serve drinks and curate a warm, inviting environment where customers can enjoy cocktails and, of course, snacks.
I don’t know about you, but any place where I can get a drink and a snack sounds like a good place! 🍙The sense of community in snack bars reflects Japan’s broader cultural inclination towards privacy and close-knit social interactions, allowing individuals to feel secure and accepted in their identities.
10 Days in Japan With Detours
As a gay group travel company, we know that Japan is an amazing place to travel to. If you’re looking to explore Japan, but don’t know where to start, our 10-day tour of Japan is a great intro into this diverse country.
Tokyo
Hands-down the heart of queer life in Japan, Tokyo is home to Shinjuku Nichome, (Nicho for short) which is the largest gay district in the country. Nicho used to be a red-light district but has transformed into a neon-lit wonderland packed with hundreds of bars, restaurants and clubs that cater to all kinds of folks under the LGBTQ+ umbrella.
For first-timers, AiiRO Cafe is a must-visit destination that is like a gateway into the Nicho scene. Friendly, open, and easy to find, here you can meet locals who can show you the more intimate and traditional spots. Some clubs and bars are more foreigner-friendly, while others are very locally oriented, so expect some language barrier here and there. 🌆
Nagano
If you think about Japan and visualize snow-covered mountains, onsens, and super cute snow monkeys soaking in steamy baths, then you’re thinking about Nagano! 🐒
If you like skiing, Nagano is a great place to go in the winter. It was home to the 1998 Winter Olympics, and has several popular ski resorts. While queer spaces are more under the radar and few and far between, the overall vibe is peaceful, and nature-focused which can be a nice change of pace if you’re looking to relax and take a break from busy city life. 🏔️
Kyoto
Kyoto may not have a big, flashy queer scene, but it makes up for it with charm and tradition. Visit ancient temples, experience tea ceremonies, and stroll through old streets. While the LGBTQ+ venues are low-key and scattered-mostly around Kawaramachi city feel welcoming in a soft, unspoken way. 🍵🛕
Osaka
Arrive hungry! Known for amazing street food, a bold personality, and a down-to-earth LGBTQ+ scene, which is mostly centred around Doyamacho near Umeda. While not as international as Tokyo’s Nicho, it’s a fun place to be with a super-friendly local vibe. The bars are small and intimate, giving visitors a personal experience. Enjoy incredible street food like takoyaki, do some karaoke, and enjoy your time in this welcoming, come-as-you-are city. 🎤🍢
Explore Japan
Japan combines tradition with increasing acceptance for LGBTQ+ travelers. Cities like Tokyo celebrate diversity through vibrant communities and cozy snack bars.
Embrace the unique experiences while respecting local customs, and you'll gain unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for Japan's rich culture. And Detours is here to show you the way.