Shinjuku’s Nichome neighbourhood has long been known as a hub for Tokyo’s LGBTQ community, with dozens of bars and nightclubs catering to LGBTQ+ clientele. While the neighbourhood’s booming nightlife scene has always provided party lovers with a safe space to be themselves, Tokyo’s LGBTQ+ minorities haven’t had a specific place to go to for support and advice on issues regarding employment and same-sex partnerships, or just general counselling. Pride House Tokyo Legacy, which opened in Shinjuku in October, is aiming to change that.
The facility, which is run by the Pride House Tokyo consortium, has staff members ready to provide counselling services, details of upcoming events or up-to-date information on LGBTQ issues in Japan. While the centre places an emphasis on aiding sexual minorities through counselling, it welcomes anyone (including heterosexual allies) to browse its library of 1,400 books and have a dialogue with the staff to educate themselves on LGBTQ issues in Japan.
There will also be regular online and IRL events, such as networking functions and job fairs to promote diversity and provide equal opportunities for LGBTQ individuals.