FAQ

The film was originally banned because Japanese law prohibits explicit depictions of genitalia. Oshima was charged with obscenity charges but was eventual acquitted. The film would eventually be made available, albeit it in a censored version that obscures the genitals. It does not matter if the film has artistic merit or is mere pornography, Japan's obscenity laws still apply.

Yes, it was controversial for this reason.

There is one scene which was altered in order to conform to the BBFC's guidelines (Protection of Children Act 1978) because there's an immoral contact between a woman and a minor. During this scene, Sada (during a dream) pulls a small boy's penis and masturbates him. The scene was altered so that you don't see her hand touching the boy's pubic area and genitals. This cut was waived for the latest UK release of the movie.