In the early 50s, supernaturals first started integrating themselves into Japanese society due to the drafting of the new constitution. Depending on the supernatural race, some were received with reverence, curiosity, fear, or expectations that may or may not have reflected reality.

 

Fox-like anthromorphs or hybrids are generally revered due to their perceived connection with kitsune, or feared if they are considered to be descended from a nogitsune. Some of these supernaturals hold spiritual positions such as onmyoujis or shrine maidens, whereas others live lives comparable to those of humans. Other hybrids and anthromorphs are highly sexualized in the media and are often pressured into sexual acts by society. Some do end up as sex workers in the red-light districts of Japan, but others struggle to be known for their intelligence, accomplishments and contributions that they make to the world.

 

Elves, dwarves and other fae-folk are generally marginalized due to their appearance. Elves in particular are considered to be intelligent but aloof, and are sometimes ostracized from Japanese society due to perceived non-conformity and lack of cooperation. Most tend to emigrate out of Japan to other countries once their education is completed. Other fae-folk end up working in circuses or side-shows, or take on blue collar jobs. Fairies have the most difficult time integrating into society and are often drifters in the street. Over time, the descendants of the first fae folk born on Japanese soil were required to participate in the compulsory education system, and they were able to integrate into society and hold better paying jobs and businesses.

 

Vampires, werewolves and other creatures that acquired their supernatural status through curses are typically considered abominations in Japanese society. Vampires in particular are avoided because of their offensive existence to Shintoists and Buddhists. Japan currently offers vampires free blood through clinics, which is a source of significant controversy. On one hand, it prevents violent attempts at feeding; on another, it depletes the blood supply for those requiring transfusions.

 

As a result of these social problems, vampires often hide their identities and make a living by pooling the resources of their clans to fund their own companies, or by amassing fortunes through stock portfolios. They have an advantage in that they need no food, clothing or shelter to survive, so their cost of living is extraordinarily low, allowing them to take bigger risks in investments. Werewolves and other similar creatures also tend to hide their identities and will live as ordinary humans with normal jobs.

 

Inter-dimensional beings such as demons and angels are treated very differently in countries that have a high concentration of Christians. In Japan, they are mostly seen as another type of hybrid. The younger generation tends to idolize angels and demons due to their depiction in popular culture, and some will end up in the entertainment industry as a result. Demons typically hit a glass ceiling when they attempt to acquire a political position, and angels often go into the medical or teaching fields.

 

Shape shifters have an unfortunate history due to Cold War events. Many countries used shifters for the purposes of espionage and duplicity. Japan in particular suffered from a string of brutal murders and rapes caused by a sadistic sociopath that could shift his appearance at will to acquire victims. The entire country was in a grip of fear for 10 years until this person was finally caught, sealed, purified and executed by the Supernatural Task Force. Since these events, shape shifters have been under strict regulated control in Japan.