This article explores the legal status of polygamy in Japan and provides an overview of its history, cultural attitudes towards the practice and international perspective. Polygamy is illegal in Japan according to Article 733 of the Civil Code which states that “Marriage shall be based only on the mutual consent of both sexes and it shall be maintained through mutual cooperation with the equal rights of husband and wife as a basis”. This is due to cultural beliefs against it as well as potential risks associated with practicing it such as unequal treatment among spouses or increased risk for domestic violence within a polygamous relationship. There are mixed views on whether or not polygamy should be allowed internationally, with some arguing for more freedom when it comes to relationships while others believe that it should remain illegal.