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Tokyo Court Upholds Japan’s Same‑Sex Marriage Ban — Legal Battle to Reach Supreme Court

04:54 PM, 11/29/2025
Tokyo Court Upholds Japan’s Same‑Sex Marriage Ban — Legal Battle to Reach Supreme Court

A Tokyo court ruled that Japan's ban on same-sex marriage does not violate the constitution, a verdict that contrasts with several other recent decisions finding the ban unconstitutional. Japan remains the only G7 country without marriage equality, while debate continues across the region. Plaintiffs and rights groups urged quicker legal reform, and the issue is expected to be decided next by Japan's Supreme Court.

A Tokyo district court ruled on Friday that Japan's ban on same-sex marriage does not violate the country's constitution, a decision that departs from several recent rulings in other courts that found the prohibition unconstitutional.

Japan remains the only G7 nation without marriage equality. While a handful of jurisdictions in Asia have legalized same-sex marriage, many countries in the region are still debating the issue or considering new legal protections.

The judge who issued the ruling said that questions about the legal definition of marriage are primarily matters for the national legislature to resolve. The decision also stated that, under current law, defining marriage as between a man and a woman — and emphasizing children within that framework — appeared to be appropriate.

Responses and public sentiment

Support for marriage equality in Japan has grown markedly in recent years, reflected in public opinion polls and activism. Still, the ruling aligns with the position of Japan's current ruling party, which opposes legal recognition of same-sex marriage.

"What is justice? Was the court even watching us? Were they considering the next generation?" said plaintiff Shino Kawachi, describing the decision as "difficult to comprehend."

Human rights advocates called for faster legislative action. Boram Jang, an East Asia researcher at Amnesty International, urged the government to move proactively so same-sex couples can enjoy the same marriage rights as their heterosexual counterparts.

What happens next

At least five other courts in Japan have ruled that the marriage ban is unconstitutional. With mixed decisions across lower courts, the issue is now widely expected to reach Japan's Supreme Court, which could provide a final, nationwide ruling. The outcome will have significant implications for legal recognition, family rights, and public policy in Japan.

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