More women’s universities are beginning to accept transgender students in Japan. A nationwide survey conducted by the Mainichi Shimbun between September and October found that six establishments currently accept transgender women who were assigned male at birth but identify as female, while one other plans to in the future. Another 16 are open to the possibility, with five of them stating that they “are seriously considering it.” Of the 60 universities polled, 40 responded.
Fukuoka Women’s University To Start Accepting Transgender Students From 2029
Among the six that responded that they “allow” transgender women to enroll, two are public institutions: Ochanomizu University (Tokyo) and Nara Women’s University (Nara). They were the earliest to start accepting transgender students, starting in 2020. The other four are private: Japan Women’s University, Tsuda University (both Tokyo), Miyagi Gakuin Women’s University (Miyagi) and Notre Dame Seishin University (Okayama). In July, Fukuoka Women’s University announced that it will start accepting transgender women from 2029.
Seventeen universities responded that they “do not approve” the acceptance of transgender students. The majority of them cited a lack of progress in creating an environment conducive to accepting transgender students, such as the installation of multi-purpose restrooms. Some of them also stated that “application eligibility is set at ‘female according to the family register’” and, as a result, they “do not anticipate accepting transgender students.”
‘Careful Dialogue’ Needed Says University Representative
A representative from a women’s university in Western Japan said that their university had thought about accepting transgender students in the past, “but is not currently considering it,” adding, “In Japan, legal frameworks concerning sexual minorities, including transgender individuals, are insufficient, and societal discussions have not progressed. Without a clear vision for promoting understanding, gaining the understanding of students and parents requires a certain amount of time and careful dialogue.”
Related Posts
Discover Tokyo, Every Week
Get the city’s best stories, under-the-radar spots and exclusive invites delivered straight to your inbox.
Updated On December 4, 2025
AloJapan.com