LGBT+ life in Akita

This page is for information and insight into like in Akita for someone who identifies as LGBT+. It is slowly being updated and any additions would be welcomed. But the main takeaway for those seeing this page is there is an LGBT+ community here, even if separated and not in contact often. You are not alone here!

Overview

For those who identify as LGBT+, life in Japan may be different to how you are used to back home. Japan is quite a private country when it comes to dating and relationships. Same-sex relationships are often not visible and LGBT+ issues can often be seen as being related to sex, and thus not brought up in conversation (especially in the workplace). Same-sex marriage is also not legal or recognised in Japan.

However progress is gradually being made. Same-sex partnerships are now recognised by 50 local governments around the country, allowing for rights for important things like hospital visits and official contracts. Large cities like Tokyo and Osaka also have gay districts where there are a diverse range of venues to socialise and party in a safe and open space. A national poll in 2018 found 84% of people aged 20 to 59 are in support of same-sex marriage.

Despite this positive movement, Akita isn't Tokyo... Akita is a rural prefecture, and with this comes the drawbacks of such a location. The population tends towards the elderly, who don't necessarily hold the same progressive views towards queer issues as the younger people. The small population and spread of placements also mean that there is no large community to develop those safe spaces like bars or community groups. Sadly, much like growing up in a small town in your country, there is not really a visible LGBT+ presence in Akita. Like-minded people are here, but it's much harder to find them.

Dating

Dating as an LGBT+ person can be difficult in Akita, though not impossible. There are no dedicated LGBT+ bars or clubs in Akita, though there used to be one in the city (we miss you Shade, RIP 2019-2020). There are some bars or izakaya that may be more safer spaces or are run by people who identify as LGBT+, but these place may not advertise this. As LGBT+ safe spaces are found, please add them to this page for others to find.

The main way to find other LGBT+ people to date seems to be dating apps. While these are not without issues, many of the same apps in other countries are active in Japan too. Grindr, Scruff, Bumble, and Tinder all work here and are used by LGBT+ people. Japan also has an app called 9monsters which seems to be popular with gay men. It has been observed you may often match with Japanese women who are just looking for friends/English conversation partners, or you may match with Japanese men from Tokyo and other prefectures who want to date long-distances. As with anywhere, dating apps have their flaws and quirks. However, for those that it works for you may be able to meet people here.

Some other things to be aware of when dating is that many LGBT+ people here are not out to family or their workplace. As such, they will often use a fake name or not send photos when dating. This doesn't just include online, as some people may continue using a fake name when dating in person. This is to prevent being accidentally outed to colleagues and friends. In the same vain, it may not be possible to visit/go back to someone's house depending on their living situation and neighbors. This is something to consider when dating, as you may need to plan things that don't involve meeting at or going back to someone's house. This is relevant to most people when socialising in Japan, as it is common to go out to do things rather than entertain at home.

LGBT+ Health

As with anywhere, it is important to stay healthy in Japan. As a smaller area, Akita doesn't seem to have an LGBT+ specific health center so don't expect specialised care for LGBT+ issues. If you are coming with specific health matters (preexisting conditions, transitioning, etc), please make sure you have enough of any medication for the initial period while you find a new doctor here. Similarly, bring any information from your doctor at home and be prepared to explain your previous care. PAs and/or your BOE may be able to assist with this.

Stonewall Japan have a page about sexual health, including a helpful list of phrases you may hear in an appointment. You can find this here.

STI and HIV testing

You should be able to get an STI test from your regular doctor or clinic. Something to remember when going to get tested is that it is common for doctors to share medical information with your workplace. While this isn't guaranteed, it is recommended to specifically tell your doctor not to share this with your employer if you don't wish them to know. It may not be enough to assume they won't tell them.

Akita City offers free HIV testing a few times a month at the health center in Yabase. Information can be found here, or on the Akita City website. A previous ALT wrote about their experiences with being diagnosed with HIV/AIDS in Japan, and you can read their experience with the process here: HIV and JET

Resources

• Stonewall Japan: A community supporting LGBT+ people in Japan. While a local branch doesn't exist, they have resources and information and you can reach out to people across the country.