Diversity and inclusion in Japan

Given Japan's homogeneous population, foreigners and other underrepresented groups may sometimes feel out of place. To better serve marginalised communities, there are numerous initiatives for diversity and inclusion in Japan.

Accessibility in Japan

Japan has made considerable strides in improving accessibility for individuals with disabilities, and the government and corporations continue to apply technology and innovative design to make things as accessible as possible. 

Cities and large urban centres are better suited to wheelchair users and the visually impaired than rural locations. In commercial districts, sidewalks are smooth with cut curbs, while small roads have pedestrian lanes indicated by white lines instead of raised paving.

Historical buildings and gardens still pose a challenge and can be difficult to access for those with limited mobility. Newer buildings are legally required to be accessible.

The world's first tactile sidewalk tiles, Tenji blocks, were invented in Japan 60 years ago. Long lines show directions, and circles indicate caution. 'Tenji' means 'Braille', which you'll find everywhere – while it's unique to Japan and different to English Braille, it can be learned.

Trains

Most train stations in major cities have ramps, elevators and stairlifts, though in some cases these are located at the far end of a station. Every ticket gate has at least one mobility-accessible lane. Ticket machines are accessible at wheelchair level (in English via touchscreens), and staff are on hand to assist. Crowding during rush hour can make travelling by train more challenging for wheelchair users.

Taxis

Many of Japan's modern taxis (called JPN Taxi) are modelled on London's famous 'black cab' shape. They have ramps and the rear seat can fold back to accommodate a wheelchair. Standard taxis without this feature will stow a foldable wheelchair in their boot. Accessible taxis should be booked in advance due to high demand.

Buses

Some city buses have low floors or can be lowered to accommodate wheelchair users. Others have ramps. All city buses dedicated spaces for wheelchairs with safety belts. Long-distance and airport buses often lack these facilities, making trains or taxis a better pick in this situation.

Useful links

• Accessible Japan

LGBTQ+ in Japan

Homosexuality has been legal in Japan since 1880. LGBTQ+ rights are relatively progressive by Asian standards, though some provisions lack full legal status – noticeably, the government doesn't recognise same-sex marriage at the national level. Around 90 percent of municipalities and prefectures now issue 'partnership certificates' recognising same-sex relationships. This offers some but not all benefits of legal marriage.

Historically, Japanese culture has shown a lower degree of hostility towards the gay community compared to some other cultures, and survey data suggests that a majority of Japanese citizens are accepting of homosexuality. 

Public affection is frowned upon in Japan, regardless of sexual orientation, and should be avoided. Discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity is banned in certain cities.

Useful links

• Equaldex Japan

Gender equality in Japan

Japan continues to work towards achieving greater gender equality, although it still faces challenges in this area. It falls behind most industrialised nations, including its Asian neighbours, in gender equality. The country is ranked 118th out of 148 countries in the World Economic Forum's 2025 Global Gender Gap Index.

Women earn under half of what their male counterparts earn and have limited decision-making authority in business or politics. Policies such as 'Womenomics' and various phases of the Basic Plan for Gender Equality are delivering progress. However, these are derived from economic strategy rather than driven by societal impacts and the need to improve women's holistic wellbeing, from safety and security to health, dignity and self-fulfilment. 

That said, pressure from within and from global corporations outside Japan is helping to promote greater equality against historic cultural barriers – with ambitious targets set for the next 10 years.

Useful links

• World Economic Forum – 2025 Gender Gap Report

Women in leadership in Japan

Japan has one of the lowest percentages of women in managerial positions among OECD countries – around 10 to 13 percent – even though women represent 55 percent of the working population. The government aims for a 30 percent representation of women in managerial positions but has struggled to make progress in this area.

The underlying reasons for this discrepancy are multifaceted, extending beyond mere discrimination or patriarchy. They include deep-rooted societal norms, the imbalance of care responsibilities often shouldered by women, and a work culture that traditionally values long hours, which can conflict with family responsibilities.

Useful links

• Share of female managers in Japan still short of government target – The Japan Times

Mental health in Japan

Like in any society, individuals in Japan can experience problems with emotional wellbeing through concerns about work, family, finances or the future, while neglect or abuse may also negatively affect mental health. Expats are at higher risk for conditions such as depression and substance use disorders than the general population.

Psychiatric support for mental health is widely available in Japan, and 70 percent of the cost is covered by national health insurance. Although less affordable and not financially supported, psychological counselling is also easy to find in Japan.

Stigma around mental health conditions can prevent sufferers from seeking help. Japanese culture values group wellbeing over individual health, and promotes stoicism. It's important to understand that mental illness is not an individual failure, but simply a medical condition. Seeking professional treatment can be daunting but is a vital step on the road to recovery.

Useful links

• TELL Japan – English support and counselling for Japan's international community

Unconscious bias in Japan

Bias around gender, age and ethnicity inhibits effective hiring, limits development, and lowers staff morale. Efforts are underway by both the government and academic institutions in Japan to address and reduce unconscious bias, with a focus on fostering an environment of fairness and impartiality. The aim is to create a society where diverse views and backgrounds are seen as a catalyst for innovation and progress.

Diversification of the workforce in Japan

Japan, where 98 percent of the population is ethnically Japanese, is known for its homogeneity. However, it is also a welcoming country for visitors and overseas professionals. 

It's worth noting that the Japanese government has started initiatives to attract more foreign workers to address labour shortages due to the country's rapidly ageing population. While instances of xenophobia or discrimination are infrequent, they can occur, particularly targeting migrant workers from countries like China and Korea. 

Creating a work environment that is welcoming to people from all walks of life is slowly being recognised by employers as a vital piece of the puzzle when it comes to employee wellness. More companies are implementing diversity and inclusion programmes to improve outcomes.

Safety in Japan

Japan is renowned as one of the safest countries in the world. To maintain this status, the government has implemented measures such as increasing police numbers and expanding the use of security cameras. In Japan, children can often be seen walking home or exploring shopping malls without adult supervision, and it's not uncommon for people to leave their bags unattended while visiting bathrooms.

As in any country, crime does exist, and individuals should always take common-sense precautions for their safety. Additionally, there is concern that crimes against women may be underreported, suggesting the need for continued vigilance and preventative efforts.

Useful links

• Safety in Japan – Expat Arrivals

Calendar initiatives in Japan

4 January – World Braille Day
4 February – World Cancer Day
8 March – International Women's Day
April – Tokyo Rainbow Pride
7 April – World Health Day
1 May – International Labour Day
18 May – Global Accessibility Awareness Day
July – Rainbow Reel Tokyo
8 September – World Literacy Day
10 September – World Suicide Prevention Day
10 October – World Mental Health Day
14 November – World Diabetes Day
18 November – End Child Sex Abuse Day
25 November – International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women
1 December – World AIDS Day
3 December – International Day of People with Disabilities