Osaka, the LGBTQ capital of Japan, and the new IGLTA Destination of the Year 2021
Osaka, Japan, has a thriving queer community with over 100 gay bars, 10 lesbian bars, and a burgeoning trans nightlife scene. So, it’s not surprising why it’s IGLTA Featured Destination for 2021. Earlier this year, the historic city launched Japan’s first Destination Marketing Organization-led Pride Month campaign.
The Osaka Convention & Tourism Bureau has created an array of initiatives and celebrations to really showcase the diversity of Osaka to the global LGBTQ community, starting with a series of videos showcasing the city’s queer community.
The city has also created a portal showcasing LGBTQ+ friendly events, bars, hotels, tours, and dining locations across the city. For more information about what to see and do in Osaka, check out the Visit Gay Osaka website.
The Open Arms Project, another initiative to promote LGBTQ+ tourism, works with local businesses and LGBTQ tourism professionals to develop new tourism experiences unique to Osaka. These unique experiences will be shared with the world to show how open and welcoming Osaka is to global visitors.
Editor’s Note: Those who travel are strongly encouraged to check local government restrictions, rules, and safety measures related to COVID-19 and take personal comfort levels and health conditions into consideration before departure.
Gay history in Osaka dates back to the 1950s with the opening of the Takeonoya Ryokan in the Nishinari ward of Osaka, which was the original Japanese cruising spot. In 1989, Japan’s first and oldest drag queen party, “Diamonds Are Forever,” started in Osaka, although it has now moved to Kyoto, where it’s still going strong. Pride is held in October every year. The first Pride event was in 2006, but today, Pride in Osaka is celebrated every October. Osaka is also the first government district in the country to officially support LGBT human rights too.
No visit to Japan would be complete without a taste of sake, and One Cup Rainbow Edition Sake from Ozeki Corporation. The special brand of sake has been developed and designed with the symbolic LGBTQ rainbow colors. Queer travelers will spot the rainbow sake at participating venues such as the W Hotel, Hotel It, Hotel Royal, and Zentis Osaka during the city’s Pride celebrations.
If you’re planning a trip to Japan, Osaka is a must for all LGBTQ+ travelers. For more info on what to do and see, as well as where to party, dine and shop in Osaka, take a look at the Visit Gay Osaka website, supported by the Osaka Convention and Tourism Bureau.
