LGBT rights in Chisei

Terminology
Modern Chiseian terms for LGBT people include dōseiaisha (同性愛者, literally "same-sex-love person") and henseisha (abbreviation of henkaseibetsusha 変化性別者, "changing-sex-person"). There are no specific terms distinguishing between gay, lesbian and bisexual people, though more recently foreign loanwards such gei (ゲイ, "gay") and rezubian (レズビアン, "lesbian") have become quite widespread.

Legality of same-sexual activity
Chisei has never formally criminalised homosexual activity, and homosexual/homoromantic relationships have even traditionally been normalised in some sectors of society, particularly among the elite, such as the practice of wakashūdō, popular among 16th century nobility, wherein an older male noble would engage in shows of romantic affection, and sometimes sex, with a apprentice or younger retainer. However, wider social tolerance towards such practices has varied for those outside the elite, as well as for women and GNC individuals.

Recognition of same-sex relationships
While same-sex activity itself has a long history in Chisei, such relationships have traditionally been seen as distinct from 'true' marriage between men and women, and same-sex couples were not able to legally marry until 1975, when such marriages were legalised by the Supreme Constitutional Court of the Shihōin.

Gender identity and expression
The 1991 Sex Discrimination Act introduced a provision legalising the changing of legal gender. In 2017, the Shirakawan National Court ruled that regional offices must approve applications from those with a medical diagnosis of under the terms of the 1991 Act, and that specific justifications for denial should be provided by magistrates on other unsuccessful applications.