Tokyo’s Shibuya Ward accepts paperwork for same-sex marriage certificates

Shibuya Ward in the nation’s capital became the first local government in Japan to accept applications for certificates recognizing same-sex partnerships. Gay couples lined up in front of the ward office began entering the building at 8:30 a.m. on Oct. 28 to apply. The documentation, which will be issued starting Nov. 5, will be the first in Japan to officially recognize same-sex marriages.At the head of the line were Koyuki Higashi, a 30-year-old former member of the all-women Takarazuka Revue, and 37-year-old entrepreneur Hiroko Masuhara. Eager to be legally recognized as a couple, the two women arrived at the ward office before 7 a.m. Higashi and Masuhara have taken active roles in promoting awareness of sexual minorities. “We’ve been looking forward to this day,” Masuhara said. “If we get the certificate, we want to hold on to a copy as our good luck charm.” To apply for the certificate, both...