The Rainbow March in Sapporo, Hokkaido has the distinction of being the longest, continuously run parage for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender/Transsexual people (LGBT) people in Japan. Established in 1996, it is now in its 12th year. The stated ppurpose of the parade is to "honor the LGBT population, normally repressed in Japanese society, by marching through the heart of downtown Sapporo, asserting their existence, and expressing their feelings and ideas." The 12th Annual Rainbow March Sapporo