Liberalism in Japan

Japanese liberalism (自由主義 or リベラリズム) formed in the nineteenth century as a reaction against traditional society. In the twentieth century 'liberal' (自由) gradually became a synonym for conservative, and today the main conservative party in the country is named Liberal Democratic Party (自由民主党, Jiyū-Minshutō). The defunct Democratic Party (民主党, Minshutō) was considered in part a centrist-liberal party, as are most parties which derived from it. The liberal character of the Liberal League (自由連合, Jiyū Rengō) is disputed, as it is also considered to be conservative by some. This article is limited to liberal (リベラル) parties with substantial support, proved by having had representation in parliament.