What is wakashu?
Wakashu (若衆) were adolescent boys in pre-modern Japan, typically aged between 10 and 18. The term literally translates to "young people" or "youth group". They occupied a distinct social category with specific roles and expectations, separate from both children and adult men.
- Social Status: Wakashu held a somewhat liminal status, blurring the lines between male and female roles. They were often considered attractive and desirable, and their beauty was frequently celebrated in art and literature.
- Relationships: Wakashu were often involved in romantic and sexual relationships with older men, especially samurai. These relationships were known as wakashudo (若衆道), or "the way of the wakashu". They weren't necessarily viewed as homosexual, but rather as a socially accepted form of love and mentorship between older and younger males. These relationships are described in detail in the work of Ihara Saikaku. Some wakashu also formed relationships with women, though this was less common.
- Roles: Aside from their relationships, wakashu played a variety of roles in society. They served as pages, apprentices, and attendants to adult men. In some cases, they were also trained as warriors.
- Appearance: Wakashu were easily identifiable by their distinctive hairstyles and clothing. They typically wore their hair long in front and shaved at the nape of the neck. They were often adorned with colorful and ornate garments.
- End of Wakashu Status: The wakashu period ended when a boy reached adulthood, usually marked by his participation in a coming-of-age ceremony called genpuku. After genpuku, the young man adopted an adult hairstyle and began to take on adult responsibilities. The practice faded during the Meiji Restoration.
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