Madonna's `Sex' May Be Obscene In Japan

TOKYO - The Japanese publisher of Madonna's book "Sex" may face obscenity charges even though the Japanese version was toned down, officials said.

Police and the Tokyo Customs Office said they have begun questioning representatives of Dohosha, a publishing house based in Kyoto, to determine if obscenity or tariff laws were violated.

The Japanese version of "Sex," with a compact disc attached, went on sale last week.

Police officials said the book might violate the nation's obscenity standards, which generally ban photographs of genitals or pubic hair. Violators face up to two years in prison and a $40 fine.

Dohosha editors would not comment on the police investigation.

The Japanese publisher retouched several pictures to black out male genitals. Madonna also blacked parts of photographs for the Japanese version, said Kazumasa Fujita, a Dohosha editor.

The Tokyo Customs Office said it wanted to determine if the company violated tariff laws by not applying for an import permit for negatives used to publish the book.

Japan requires import permits for books, paintings, sculptures and other items that are considered a threat to public order and standards of decency. Violations can be punished by up to five years in prison and a $4,000 fine.