This research project seeks to understand how Japanese courts imposed limitations on artistic expression considering codified limitations - such as Article 175 of the Criminal Code - and freedom of expression as a constitutionally protected right enshrined in Article 21 of the Constitution. To circumvent constitutional constraints, limitations on artistic work are mainly twofold: criminal (no obscenity allowed) and self-made (through representative organizations).
The current research seeks to understand how courts limit artistic works such as "Chatterley’s Lover", "In the Realm of the Senses", and "Mapplethorpe". Moreover, this research project also analyzes the work of self-censoring organizations.