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Is crime big in Japan?

1. Introduction

Crime is an issue that affects all societies and Japan is no exception. In fact, Japan has its own unique history of crime, which has been shaped by its culture and society. This article aims to explore the current state of crime in Japan, looking at its history, types of crimes, factors contributing to it, police response and public perception.

2. Crime in Japan – Overview

Crime in Japan is relatively low compared to other countries around the world. According to the 2019 Global Peace Index (GPI), Japan ranks as the fourth safest country in the world. However, this does not mean that crime does not exist in Japan; there are still some areas where crime rates are higher than others, such as Tokyo and Osaka.

Is crime big in Japan?Is crime big in Japan?

3. History of Crime in Japan

The history of crime in Japan dates back centuries and can be traced back to the Edo period (1603-1868). During this time, samurai warriors were responsible for enforcing law and order within their domains. Samurai warriors also had their own set of punishments for those who committed crimes against them or their family members.

In 1868, with the Meiji Restoration came a new set of laws which were based on European legal systems. These laws created a more modern system of justice that was based on guilt or innocence rather than honor or revenge as was previously seen under samurai rule. The Japanese legal system has since evolved over time to become more modernized with a focus on human rights and due process for all citizens regardless of social status or wealth.

4. Types of Crimes in Japan

The most common type of crime in Japan is property related offenses such as theft and burglary; however, violent crimes such as assault and murder are also prevalent although less so than property related offenses. Other types of crimes include fraud, drug related offenses, cybercrime, organized crime (e.g., yakuza) and white-collar crime (e.g., embezzlement).

5 Factors Contributing to Crime in Japan

There are several factors that contribute to the prevalence of crime in Japan including poverty levels, unemployment rates, drug use/abuse, population density/urbanization levels and lack of education/employment opportunities for young people.Additionally, cultural norms such as honor-based violence (iwasaki) have been linked to higher rates of certain types of crimes such as domestic violence.

6 Police Response to Crime in Japan

The police response to crime in Japan is generally considered effective due to a combination of highly trained officers who have access to advanced technology such as facial recognition software.Additionally,police officers receive extensive training on how best to respond to different types of criminal activity,including how best to handle victims,suspects,witnesses,etc.Furthermore,police officers often work closely with local community members when investigating cases,providing an additional layer of safety for citizens.

7 Public Perception Of Crime In Japan


Public perception regarding crime varies depending on region but overall it appears that most Japanese people feel safe living within their communities.This feeling may be attributed to a strong sense of community spirit among locals where neighbors look out for each other’s safety.Additionally,many Japanese citizens have faith in the police force which may contribute positively towards public perception.

8 Conclusion


To conclude,while there is certainly some criminal activity taking place within Japanese society it appears that overall it remains relatively low compared with other countries around the world.The factors contributing towards this include a combination high levels technological advancement combined with a strong sense community spirit among locals.Additionally,faith placed upon police forces by citizens combined with high levels training provided officers appears help maintain low levels criminal activity throughout country.

9 Sources


Global Peace Index 2019 Report – Institute For Economics & Peace – https://www.visionofhumanity.org/reports/global-peace-index-2019/
History Of Law In Japan – Law Library Of Congress – https://www.loc.gov/law/help/japanese-law/history-of-law-in-japanese-society-.html
Factors Contributing To Crime In The Country Of japan – ResearchGate – https://www.researchgate

Is there a high crime rate in Japan?

Last year Japan recorded 601389 crimes a 59 percent increase from 2021 when the number reached its lowest level in the post-war era. Consultations on domestic violence and suspected cases of child abuse are at the highest level.

What are the major crimes in Japan?

In 2022, a total of 9,536 major crimes were reported, an increase of 715 cases or 8.1 percent over the previous year. These crimes included cases of murder, robbery, arson, rape, and indecent assault, and kidnapping and trafficking. Cases of murder and robbery remained almost unchanged at 853 and 1,148, respectively.Feb 20, 2023

How safe is Japan compared to America?

How safe is Japan from America? Comparing the number of crimes per 100000 people in Japan and the United States Japan had 950 murders in 2019 compared to 16425 in the United States. The total number of robberies was 1511 in Japan compared to her 267988 in the United States. January 16 2023

Is it risky to live in Japan?

Japan is one of the safest countries to live in so its no surprise that Tokyo is generally safe to visit.

Can I live in Japan as an American?

North American expats can enjoy a high standard of living in Japan with its stable economy, government, and robust social services. Its important to note that Less than 30 percent of the population speaks English, and only – percent can speak English fluently.

Can you own guns in Japan?

No one can buy a firearm or rifle in Japan except the police and the military. Hunters and target shooters may carry rifles and air rifles in very limited situations. Police checked the ammunition of the firearms licensee and found no bullets or pellets.

Is crime big in Japan?Is crime big in Japan?

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