During the Heian Period in Japan, there was an important transformation in the rules and conventions governing the sexuality and eroticism of young people. This change was linked to the emergence of new ideas about sexuality that were based on Buddhist teachings. These teachings emphasized the importance of self-control and restraint, which led to the development of a code of conduct known as "fuzoku" or "ethics." In the beginning of this code, premarital sexual activity was considered taboo and punishable by death.
As time went on, the Japanese began to accept and celebrate sexual desire within certain limits. As a result, premarital sexual behavior became more regulated through various rituals and practices. The most famous of these is "mizugi-iri," which involves removing clothing before having sex. This practice allowed couples to maintain their identities while engaging in intimate activities.
During the Edo Period, there was a further expansion of ethical norms regarding premarital sexual behavior. Young men and women who engaged in premarital sex could be sentenced to exile or even death.
Those who did not observe proper etiquette during courtship and marriage could face serious social consequences. Nevertheless, there was also greater freedom for sexual expression outside of marriage.
Prostitution became a thriving industry and many brothels opened across the country. It is said that geisha were among the most highly sought-after courtesans in the world, and they were often able to earn high salaries due to their skills and beauty.
In contemporary Japan, the rules surrounding eroticism are much more relaxed than in previous centuries. Couples can have sex before marriage without facing severe penalties, although it is still frowned upon in some circles. Premarital relationships are common, though many young people choose to wait until after marriage to become sexually active. There are no laws against public displays of affection, and couples can hold hands, hug, and kiss in public without fear of censure.
Some aspects of traditional Japanese culture still influence sexual behavior, such as the belief that one should only have sex within marriage and with someone who shares your surname.
Japanese religious norms shape ethical, emotional, and relational regulation of premarital sexual behavior and erotic expression by emphasizing restraint and self-control. They encourage individuals to abide by certain standards when engaging in intimate activities and maintain respectful relationships with others. These norms promote monogamy and mutual consent, which helps ensure healthy and sustainable relationships over time. While these codes may seem restrictive at first glance, they ultimately provide a framework for positive interactions between partners.
How do Japanese religious norms shape ethical, emotional, and relational regulation of premarital sexual behavior and erotic expression?
In Japan, the traditional Confucianist values emphasize moral purity, modesty, and familial obligations. The cultural stigmas against non-marital sex include social disapproval, shame, and even public disgrace. These stigmas have affected the way people manage their feelings toward premarital sexual behaviors and expressions. Sexuality is often considered as an individual's private matter that should be kept within the family.