Japan
Tokyo is one of the world's great cities — a metropolis of infinite depth, extraordinary food culture, and a discreet but vibrant LGBTQ+ scene centred on the Shinjuku 2-chome neighbourhood, which has the highest concentration of gay bars of any district in the world. Japanese culture values discretion over public display, but the warmth of welcome for LGBTQ+ visitors is genuine and the scene is extraordinary once discovered.
Shinjuku Ni-chome (新宿二丁目) is the heart of Tokyo's gay scene — around 300 bars and clubs in just a few city blocks. Many venues are tiny (10–20 capacity), each with its own specific character: bear bars, drag bars, lesbian bars, leather bars. Arty Farty, Advocates Café, and Dragon are among the more accessible for non-Japanese speakers. The area is vibrant on weekends from late night onwards.
Tokyo Rainbow Pride takes place in late April or early May around Yoyogi Park and has grown rapidly, drawing over 200,000 people. The event represents a significant moment of visibility in a country still debating marriage equality and draws international visitors.
Tokyo is one of the world's great cities — vast, efficient, safe, and endlessly fascinating. The food scene alone is worth the trip: more Michelin stars than any other city, from ramen shops to sushi temples to depachika (department store basement food halls). Shibuya's crossing, Asakusa's Senso-ji, teamLab, and the quiet streets of Yanaka all reward exploration.
Spring (late March–May) is iconic — cherry blossom season and Rainbow Pride. Autumn (October–November) offers cool weather and stunning foliage. Summer is hot and humid. Winter is cold but clear. Avoid Golden Week (late April–early May) for crowds if not there for Pride.
Tokyo is served by Narita (NRT) and Haneda (HND) airports; Haneda is closer to the city. Tokyo's rail network is extraordinary — get a Suica or Pasmo IC card for seamless travel across JR and private lines. Shinjuku is one of the main transport hubs.
Tokyo is generally safe for LGBTQI+ travellers. Japan has no national marriage equality but is culturally safe — homophobic violence is very rare. Japanese social norms favour discretion in public, so overt public displays of affection are uncommon but not dangerous. Shinjuku Ni-chome is completely relaxed and welcoming.
Japan lacks national anti-discrimination protections for LGBTQI+ people. For visitors, the practical day-to-day experience is overwhelmingly positive and Tokyo is one of the world's safest major cities overall.
Japan is generally safe for LGBTQ+ travellers — hate crime and violence are very rare, and the culture is discreet rather than hostile. Same-sex relationships are not recognised at national level, though several cities and prefectures issue partnership certificates. Tokyo and other major cities have well-developed gay scenes.
| No |
| Anti-discrimination (gender identity) | No |
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| Healthcare |
| PrEP available | Yes |
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