Japan has made one small but important step toward recognizing LGBT rights and same-sex relationships.

Shibuya Ward, one of Tokyo's districts, has passed an ordinance recognizing same-sex relationships, marking a first for the East Asian nation.

The Shibuya Ward assembly approved the ordinance on March 31, according to the Asahi Shimbun, paving the path for the recognition of same-sex relationships in one of Asia's most conservative nations. The ordinance, though not legally binding, encourages businesses to recognize the relationships and it aims to curb discrimination.

During the assembly vote all of the parties present, the Japanese Communist Party, Komeito and the Democratic Party of Japan, approved the measure except for members of the right-leaning Liberal Democratic Party.

Same-sex couples who live in Shibuya, are 20 years of age or older, and have notarized documents ensuring their relationship, will be able to file for a certificate, which will become available in the coming months.

The ordinance asks benefits to "make the maximum possible consideration" regarding same-sex couples. A business that does not will receive a recommendation from the ward government to do otherwise. If the business, continues to discriminate, it will be listed on the ward's website.

"The purpose is to realize a society where everyone can live in hope," Shibuya mayor Toshitake Kuwahara told reporters when the measure passed, according to the BBC.

Japan does not recognize same-sex relationships at the national level and, though LGBT people are not persecuted, they are open to discrimination, as they have no legal protections. Couples have reported being denied leases for apartments because of their sexuality. 

However, the ruling LPD, both at the national level and in the ward, has come out against such measures.

"A great social ramification will be expected from such a decision," Mari Sato, an LDP member of the ward assembly, said before the vote, according to Japan Times. "We need much more time to discuss this issue."

Aside from recognizing same-sex couples, the ordinance hopes begin education on sexual minorities in the ward.

Shibuya Ward is home to 270,000 people and is one the city's trendy areas.

The BBC reports poll data shows more than 60 percent support the Shibuya Ward ordinance.