Japan: Gay couples tie the knot in Buddhist temples

An important step for Japan, which is considered somewhat backward for LGBT rights.

Although gay marriage is still not legal in Japan, a historic Buddhist temple in Kyoto has joined a long list of venues in the country that offer symbolic wedding ceremonies in traditional style.

The Shunkoin Temple is an ally of same sex couples and doesn’t hesitate to admit that in its official site with the following statement: “We welcome all couples regardless of their faith and sexual orientation.”

A priest of the tolerant temple told Huffington Post that, although they do not specialize in gay weddings, they are willing to accept every couple who would like to have their wedding ceremony there.

LGBT couples are not granted the legal rights heterosexual couples have with this ceremony. However, it is an important step for Japan, which is considered somewhat backward for LGBT rights.