This article explores the history of murder in Japan, current trends, causes and perceptions of crime and punishment, as well as strategies to reduce murders. Murder has long been a part of Japanese history, but the rate has decreased significantly since its peak during World War II. The criminal justice system is based on a combination of civil law and criminal law principles. Despite its relatively low rate compared to other industrialized countries, murder rates have been steadily increasing over the past few decades due to organized crime activities such as gang warfare. Causes of murder range from financial gain through organized crime activities to personal vendettas or mental illness/substance abuse. The Japanese legal system emphasizes punishment rather than rehabilitation for offenders convicted under homicide offenses. Strategies to reduce murders include government initiatives aimed at providing better economic opportunities for youth populations and increased access to mental health services.