This article looks at the laws and regulations governing free speech in Japan, as well as the international perspective on these laws. It discusses how the Japanese government limits free speech mainly through its laws and regulations, such as hate speech being prohibited under Japanese law, and other ways such as public pressure or intimidation tactics from authorities. Examples of limited free speech in Japan include journalist Tatsuya Kato being arrested after writing an article about an alleged affair between Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's wife Akie Abe and her former secretary Seiji Fukumoto, and journalist Kenji Goto being arrested for publishing articles critical towards Emperor Akihito's reign during his abdication ceremony. The international community has generally viewed Japan's restrictions on free speech with skepticism due to its limitations on certain types of expression. Finally, steps that can be taken to improve freedom of expression in Japan are discussed.