If I had to describe how people viewed sexuality at the time with one word, it would be this: pansexual. Let's begin our exploration of queer identity terms at the very beginning - pre-modern Japan.
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おこげ ・ okoge ・ "burnt rice stuck on the pot".The purpose of this article is not to educate anyone on gender or sexuality, but rather to help queer individuals who wish to visit Japan navigate their expression of identity. However, we believe that it is empowering for LGBTQ+ learners to have knowledge of these terms, so they can understand the meaning when they are encountered. Some of the terms introduced can be derogatory, and when translated into English, they may be upsetting to some readers. Due to the breadth of terms that exist, and the dynamic nature of queer culture, we were unable to cover everything. As you encounter and use these words in real life, you'll be able to understand their subtleties and nuances, and if you are queer yourself, you'll be able to use them to express your own identity in Japanese.ĭisclaimer: This article is intended to inform learners of Japanese about the terms that exist in the Japanese language to describe queer identities. In this article, we will introduce you to queer identity terms in Japanese, by placing them in a historical and cultural context. My cultural understanding of words like "gay" might not be the same as everyone else's, especially in the context of an entirely different country. While the question surprised me, it also taught me a valuable lesson. How do I come out in Japanese? If I choose to come out, do I know the right words to make myself understood? The first time I came out to someone in Japan, I was asked if I often wear a dress. This poses a problem for queer learners of Japanese. Unlike identities related to your country of origin or ethnic background, queer identities often have to be revealed in order to be recognized. While we could probably write dozens of articles about the identity topics above, this article is going to focus on less visible identities - those of the LGBTQ+ community. Paradoxically, it also becomes less salient, as you find yourself in the loosely-defined category of "foreigner." Based on your outward appearance, you might present as part of the minority or the majority, and the privileges or discrimination you experience in your home country may shift or take on new meanings. For one, your national identity becomes more salient than ever before. Whether it's for a temporary stay or something more permanent, one of the most fascinating things about living in a foreign country is the way you experience a shift in identity. It's safe to say that most learners of Japanese hope to experience life in Japan someday.