In a world that keeps trying to fit us into neat little boxes, let me introduce you to the trendsetting wakashū of Edo-era Japan (1603–1867), a group that decided the societal norms were as appealing as a three-week-old sushi roll. #
The wakashū, which translates to “young companions,” were adolescents known for their unique gender presentation and their significant social and cultural roles. They emerged as a distinct social category, a “third gender,” separate from men and women.
Japan was seriously ahead of the contemporary dialogue on gender. These Japanese youths transitioned smoothly into a recognized third gender, unlike their Western counterparts, who often grappled with the awkwardness of adolescence.
Wakashū held a unique role in Japanese society, balancing delicacy and strength, aesthetics and practicality. They studied arts, including music, dance, tea ceremony, and martial arts. That’s right, these chaps were as comfortable wielding a samurai sword as a calligraphy brush.
The youths lived the golden life within Japanese society. They were well adored and admired by fans across the gender spectrum, like teen pop idols that the entire family could get excited about. Both men and women found the wakashū alluring. Their charm was in the fluid way that they lived and dressed between Edo-era conventions of masculinity and femininity.