Women’s universities across Japan are slowly but noticeably moving toward greater inclusion of transgender students. A new nationwide survey by the Mainichi Shimbun found that six universities now allow trans women to enroll, with one more planning to do so. Among them are two public institutions, Tokyo’s Ochanomizu University and Nara Women’s University, alongside four private schools. Fukuoka Women’s University says it will begin accepting trans women in 2029. Another 16 universities are open to the idea, and five say they’re seriously considering it.
But 17 universities still do not approve admitting trans students, often citing inadequate facilities like multi-purpose restrooms. Some administrators point to larger structural barriers. As one representative told Tokyo Weekender: “In Japan, legal frameworks concerning sexual minorities, including transgender individuals, are insufficient, and societal discussions have not progressed. Without a clear vision for promoting understanding, gaining the understanding of students and parents requires a certain amount of time and careful dialogue.”
This slow progress comes as Japan’s LGBTQ community faces setbacks, including a late-November Tokyo High Court ruling that the country’s ban on same-sex marriage is constitutional, a decision likely headed to the Supreme Court.
