While being gay/trans in the western way is indeed frowned upon in Japan more than in the west, gay people are accepted more and more (without being put on a pedestal).
As for trans, the "Okama", which are basically transvestites have been a popular feature of culture for a long time, with some even being major personalities in the media. However, it's mostly played for comedy rather than "empowerment".
I'm glad to say that I haven't seen much of the American-style TRA/SJW here.
While being gay/trans in the western way is indeed frowned upon in Japan more than in the west, gay people are accepted more and more (without being put on a pedestal).
As for trans, the "Okama", which are basically transvestites have been a popular feature of culture for a long time, with some even being major personalities in the media. However, it's mostly played for comedy rather than "empowerment".
I'm glad to say that I haven't seen much of the American-style TRA/SJW here.