Two districts of Japan's capital Tokyo have started issuing certificates recognising same-sex partnerships.
They are designed to encourage landlords and hospitals to treat gay couples the same way as married ones.
However, the documents do not provide the same legal status as marriage.
Campaigners are welcoming "a small step forward in a deeply conservative country".
Younger people in Japan generally support gay rights but the prime minister has previously urged caution over changing the law.
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