Forbidden Colours: Gender and Sexuality in Japan

Forbidden Colours: Gender and sexuality in Japan

With its blend of traditional and hyper-modern culture, Japan is one of the most fascinating countries in the world. Same sex love appears throughout Japanese history, including in the 11th century novel The Tale of Genji, spreading from religious circles to the samurai warrior class. Today, Shinjuku Nichome – Tokyo’s Soho – is a thriving district, packed with LGBT+ bars.

There are no laws prohibiting homosexual activity in Japan and there is some movement towards legally recognising same-sex partnerships in number of Tokyo districts. But other than a small number of ‘out’ politicians and celebrities - including several TV transgender personalities – LGBT+ visibility in the country is low.

Join us for a guest talk from a visiting Japanese scholar as he discusses Japan’s queer history, the issues facing the LGBT+ community today in Japan, and how these are all connected to the historical role of gender.