Possible Hurdles for Gay Couples

Hey everyone,

My partner and I (both male, 25) are planning a move to Japan. One of us is Japanese, but I’m not, and I don’t have a deep understanding of the culture yet. We’re excited, but also curious (and a bit anxious) about the challenges we might encounter as a gay couple in Japan.

I’ve know that Japan has a more conservative approach when it comes to LGBTQ+ issues, but I’m wondering what that actually looks like day-to-day. What kind of social hurdles could we face?

I know it’s going to be tough for us but we plan to be a couple that isn’t afraid of being a bit romantic in public I’m sure it will be difficult

Some specific things I’m thinking about:

• Are there unspoken social norms or behaviors that we might stumble into without realizing it?
• How open can we realistically be about our relationship in public and within social circles, especially outside major cities like Tokyo?
• How do people in Japan tend to react to non-Japanese partners in same-sex relationships?
• Are there difficulties in navigating things like housing, healthcare, or visas as a gay couple?

We’d appreciate any advice, whether from LGBTQ+ folks or anyone who has experienced living in Japan as part of a non-traditional relationship.

Thanks!