GITNUX MARKETDATA REPORT 2024

Japan Crime Statistics: Market Report & Data

Highlights: Japan Crime Statistics

  • Japan's crime rate has been steadily decreasing, with 749,000 crimes reported in 2020.
  • Japan has a homicide rate of 0.2 per 100,000 population as of 2019.
  • In 2020, there were around 21.9 thefts per 1,000 population in Japan.
  • The reoffending rate in Japan is at 48.3% as of 2019.
  • The number of juvenile offenders in Japan has dropped to a record low of 19,124 in 2019.
  • Japan's recorded crime rate hit a new low in 2020, with 749,000 cases logged.
  • Fraud cases accounted for about 35.3% of total convictions in Japan in 2019.
  • As of 2019, the elderly crime rate rose to 13.7%, compared to 2008, which was 8.2%.
  • Japan's prison population was 47,568 as at end-2020, a decrease from the previous year.
  • Drug offenses in Japan fell by 9.8% in 2018.
  • In 2018, child abuse cases reported in Japan hit a record high of 159,850.
  • The number of crimes committed by foreign visitors in Japan decreased by 22.8% in 2020.
  • The recidivism rate for prisoners released in 2015 was 39.9%.
  • Cybercrime in Japan resulted in an estimated loss of 40.5 billion yen in 2020.
  • In 2020, traffic accidents fell to a record low of around 273,000, with 2,839 deaths.
  • The number of cases of child pornography in Japan reached a record high of 1,644 in 2019.
  • The number of stalking cases reported in Japan in 2018 was 21,556.
  • In 2020, 1,026 cases of sexual assault were reported in Tokyo, which is the highest number ever recorded.
  • The number of reported cases of child prostitution in Japan decreased from 57 in 2018 to 20 in 2019.

AI Transparency Disclaimer 🔴🔵

Find all AI Apps we have used to create this article.

Hint: If you are a student, academic or journalist we can wholeheartedly recommend them :)

✍ We save hours writing with Jenni’s AI-powered text editor* and also use Rytr* for creating articles.

📄 We find information more quickly in our research process by chatting with PDFs, Reports & Books with the help of ChatPDF*, PDF.ai* & Askyourpdf*.

🔎 We search for citations and check if a publication has been cited by others with Scite.ai*.

🤖 We use QuillBot to paraphrase or summarize our research.

✅ We check and edit our research with ProWritingAid and Trinka.

🎉 We use Originality’s AI detector & plagiarism checker* to verify our research.

Table of Contents

Delving into the heart of Japan’s public safety, this blog post unpacks the intriguing dimension of Japan’s crime statistics. Known for its impressively low crime rate relative to numerous global counterparts, Japan continues to hold rank as one of the safest countries in the world. But the story doesn’t end there; understanding the dynamics behind these figures reveals layers beneath the surface, including various sociological and cultural aspects of Japanese society. So, join us as we unravel the numbers, explore the trends, and analyze what sets Japan apart in distinctive crime and safety dimensions.

The Latest Japan Crime Statistics Unveiled

Japan’s crime rate has been steadily decreasing, with 749,000 crimes reported in 2020.

In the labyrinth of Japan’s crime world, the victorious reduction to just 749,000 reported crimes in 2020 weaves an inspiring tale of resilience and determination. Painted on the canvas of our blog post on Japan’s crime statistics, this quantifiable victory holds center stage exhibiting a notable falling trend in crime rates. A beacon of hope in a dark night, it illustrates the success of stringent law enforcement, making Japan an enviable embodiment of safety and security in a world torn apart by criminal activities. Undeniably, this statistic is a resounding testimony to the nation’s socio-economic progress, making it a vital touchstone for measuring success in crime prevention.

Japan has a homicide rate of 0.2 per 100,000 population as of 2019.

Navigating the labyrinth of Japan’s crime statistics, the astonishingly low homicide rate illuminates the nation’s intriguing story of security. The revelation that Japan’s homicide rate stood at 0.2 per 100,000 population in 2019 paints a vivid portrait of a nation firmly in the grip of law and order. This number not only underscores Japan’s efficacious law enforcement mechanisms but also speaks volumes about its underlying societal norms, its citizens’ respect for the rule of law, and the successful deterrents in place against violent crimes. Emblematic of Japan’s commitment to safety over decades, this statistic serves as a beacon in the global discourse on crime, demonstrating that low homicide rates are both achievable and sustainable.

In 2020, there were around 21.9 thefts per 1,000 population in Japan.

Diving into the data, one can espy a significant figure signaling the fundamental pulse of Japan’s sociopolitical landscape – in 2020, the theft rate in the Land of the Rising Sun hovered around 21.9 cases per a pool of 1,000. This figure, not only underlines the prevalence of theft, a category that conventionally leads crime statistics, but it also tosses crucial light on the efficacy and challenges of the country’s law enforcement and social policies. By shedding light on the scale and nature of crime in Japan, this statistic becomes instrumental in informing public dialogue, assessing law enforcement performance, guiding policy interventions, and revising strategies aimed at ensuring public safety.

The reoffending rate in Japan is at 48.3% as of 2019.

Rippling through the narrative of Japan crime statistics is an undercurrent of concern captured by the penetrative figure of a 48.3% reoffending rate in 2019. This illuminates the core of an ongoing dialogue about recidivism, shedding light on the cyclical nature of crime and punitive systems within the island nation. It tacitly raises questions about the effectiveness of rehabilitation methods, the socio-economic factors contributing to reoffending and the regulatory mechanisms in place. In quantity alone, this statistic punctuates the discourse with an urgent call for scrutiny, setting the stage for in-depth exploration and interpretation of Japan’s crime metrics.

The number of juvenile offenders in Japan has dropped to a record low of 19,124 in 2019.

Shining a light on the underpinning dynamics of Japan’s crime count, the dramatic plunge in the number of juvenile offenders to a record low of 19,124 in 2019 emerges as a significant metric. In a blog post dissecting Japan’s crime statistics, considering this data has paramount importance as it provides an index to gauge not just the effectiveness of law enforcement and public policies, but also signifies the societal shifts in youth behaviour. Furthermore, it presents an essential indicator of the overall trend in Japan’s crime landscape which, when paired with other data, paints a bigger picture, providing context and fostering a comprehensive understanding of the crime panorama in Japan.

Japan’s recorded crime rate hit a new low in 2020, with 749,000 cases logged.

Glimpsing a veil of optimism, the remarkable reduction in Japan’s recorded crime rate to a new low of 749,000 cases in 2020 paints an impressive tableau of the country’s effective law enforcement measures. In the intricate dance of crime prevention, this statistic resonates as a triumphant cadence. Its significance extends beyond just the figures, standing as a testament to Japan’s enduring commitment to safety and security. Within the frames of a blog post scrutinising Japan’s crime statistics, this number interweaves a narrative of progress, propelling readers to dive deeper into the facets and implications of this decrease, the strategies behind its achievement, and its potential trajectory in the future.

Fraud cases accounted for about 35.3% of total convictions in Japan in 2019.

The gravity of the statistic ‘Fraud cases accounted for about 35.3% of total convictions in Japan in 2019’ is dramatically underlined within the framework of a blog post on Japan’s crime statistics. This glaring reality underscores the prevalence of deceit and trickery in the criminal landscape of Japan, highlighting the urgent need for stronger legislation and stringent legal penalties to combat this socio-economic menace. Far from being an ordinary statistic, this startling figure represents a bitter truth about Japan’s criminal profile and plays a defining role in shaping conversations about transgressing moral boundaries, security, and justice system efficacy within the country.

As of 2019, the elderly crime rate rose to 13.7%, compared to 2008, which was 8.2%.

Shining a spotlight on a dramatic societal shift in the Land of the Rising Sun, the above statistic illustrates a significant increase in the involvement of the elderly in crimes, jumping from 8.2% in 2008 to 13.7% in 2019. This revelation not only underlines the changing face of crime in Japan, but also sets the stage for a deeper exploration into the socio-economic factors potentially responsible for this uptick. As public safety remains a paramount concern, these numbers fuel critical discourses on the correlation between aging populations and criminal activity, thereby prompting a crucial reconsideration of policies for crime prevention and societal integration of the elderly.

Japan’s prison population was 47,568 as at end-2020, a decrease from the previous year.

Painting an image of Japan’s crime situation, the tidbit that the nation’s prison population stood at 47,568 by the end of 2020, reflecting a decrement from the previous year, forms a cornerstone in understanding the change. It’s a mirror reflecting a potential ebb in criminal activities or perhaps, improved justice delivery mechanisms. This numerical snapshot is a crucial metric underpinning the narrative framework, offering a glimpse into efficacy of policies, and indicating the overall societal stability of the country. This reduction, against the backdrop of the general population, may further inform on crime rates or the success of reintegration programs, pivotal in shaping public perception on safety and governance.

Drug offenses in Japan fell by 9.8% in 2018.

Casting a spotlight on the Drug offenses in Japan, a captivating dip of 9.8% in 2018 reflects a vital narrative within the broader discourse of Japan’s crime dynamics. It not only suggests efficient and effective implementation of law enforcement strategies but also reveals a growing sobriety within the population against drug-related crimes. This pivotal data point, therefore, demonstrates Japan’s criminological advancements and societal transformations, providing a nuanced perspective on the country’s evolving crime landscape in the blog post about Japan Crime Statistics.

In 2018, child abuse cases reported in Japan hit a record high of 159,850.

Highlighting the sobering statistic that reported child abuse cases in Japan reached an alarming record high of 159,850 in 2018, helps to underscore a less commonly discussed but critical aspect of crime. In the realm of Japan’s crime statistics, often dominated by narratives of falling general crime rates, this unsettling surge signals a pressing, yet covert societal issue. It compels readers to delve into the hidden layers of criminal activity, urging them to recognize child abuse as a serious offence. By unmasking the darkness lurking beneath the facade of order and safety, this number invokes a call-to-action for stronger preventive measures and deterrents, thereby recalibrating our understanding of crime in the Land of the Rising Sun.

The number of crimes committed by foreign visitors in Japan decreased by 22.8% in 2020.

In the panorama of Japan’s crime statistics landscape presented in this blog post, the undeniable plummet of 22.8% in the crimes committed by foreign visitors in 2020 is a riveting data point. It not only infuses optimism about the effectiveness of law enforcement strategies but also paints a reassuring portrait of the country’s safety for tourists. This intriguing drop, precisely the reshaping of the crime graph, stands as a testament to Japan’s burgeoning appeal as a secure destination, and strategically attempts to debunk biases towards foreign visitors, paving the way for a more inclusive representation in crime discourse.

The recidivism rate for prisoners released in 2015 was 39.9%.

By plunging into the critical figures like ‘The recidivism rate for prisoners released in 2015 was 39.9%’, we can elucidate vital aspects of Japan’s criminal justice system and its implications on society. This number not only highlights the percentage of individuals who reoffend and revert to the prison system, implicating an exhaustive cycle of crime, but also provides insightful reflections on the effectiveness of rehabilitation programs, parole supervision, and prisoner reintegration. Hence, this statistic acts as an analytical tool to inform policy decisions and potential reforms in Japan’s criminal justice sector.

Cybercrime in Japan resulted in an estimated loss of 40.5 billion yen in 2020.

In a blog post delving into Japan’s crime statistics, the alarming figure of an estimated 40.5 billion yen loss due to cybercrime in 2020 signals a crucial shift in the landscape of crime. This hefty financial hit underscores the burgeoning threat of digital lawbreakers within Japan’s boundaries, consequently necessitating the need to bolster cybersecurity measures. It puts the spotlight on the urgency for refined legislation, robust security infrastructure, and increased public awareness to combat these invisible and yet potent threats to nip this escalating menace in the bud. This figure not only quantifies the enormity of the cybercrime issue but also serves as a barometer of the nation’s urgency to tackle these pervasive digital predators effectively.

In 2020, traffic accidents fell to a record low of around 273,000, with 2,839 deaths.

Bedding this significant trend within the landscape of Japan’s crime statistics, the dramatic drop in traffic accidents to an unprecedented low of around 273,000 in 2020, accompanied by a concurrent decrease to 2,839 fatalities, hints at a larger underlying narrative. Whether attributing this to effective traffic regulation enforcement, broader public safety awareness campaigns or more profound societal shifts in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the plummeting numbers demonstrate a marked positive influence on Japan’s public safety landscape. They provide concrete evidence of progress being made simultaneously in crime reduction and safety improvement, contributing to an overall decline in harm to Japan’s populace. The feat pulled in managing road safety in Japan thereby further underscores an optimistic trend towards the reduction of crime and accidents within the country.

The number of cases of child pornography in Japan reached a record high of 1,644 in 2019.

Highlighting the alarming surge to an unprecedented 1,644 cases of child pornography in Japan in 2019, not only underlines a distressing escalation of this criminal activity, but it also provides a stark contrast against Japan’s global reputation as a country with one of the lowest crime rates. Considered within the broader discussion of Japan’s crime statistics, this figure indicates a pressing anomaly that demands immediate attention and stringent action. It compels readers, law enforcement authorities, and policymakers alike to delve deeper into this dark underbelly, illuminating spaces that presumably need radical reform and more effective countermeasures in child protection policies and cybersecurity measures.

The number of stalking cases reported in Japan in 2018 was 21,556.

Illuminating the darkened corners of Japan’s crime landscape, the stark figure 21,556, indicating reported stalking cases in 2018, serves as a chilling testament to the pervasiveness of such crimes. This statistic punctuates the narrative framed by Japan Crime Statistics, offering unfiltered evidence of an insidious problem. By understanding which criminal behaviors are most rampant, readers can develop a more informed view on the nation’s law enforcement challenges, social issues, and potential safety measures. This stalking statistic enriches our collective understanding, fostering an environment for open discourse and problem-solving approaches.

In 2020, 1,026 cases of sexual assault were reported in Tokyo, which is the highest number ever recorded.

Highlighting an all-time high number of reported sexual assault cases in Tokyo in 2020 isn’t just a mere number inclusion in the Japan Crime Statistics blog post. Unsettling as it is, this fact adds a sobering perspective, thrusting into the spotlight the escalating issue of sexual abuse in the cosmopolitan capital. Not only does it underscore the urgent need for comprehensive measures to tackle this burgeoning problem, it also fuels discussions around secondary issues such as the potentially vast number of unreported cases, possible procedural lapses in reporting, and the societal setup either perpetuating or combating such crimes. This data point thus forms the backbone of our insight into the alarming state of personal safety in Tokyo and, by extension, Japan as a whole – a situation demanding immediate attention and actions.

The number of reported cases of child prostitution in Japan decreased from 57 in 2018 to 20 in 2019.

Illuminating the darker crevices of Japan’s crime landscape, the striking decrease in reported child prostitution cases from 57 in 2018 to only 20 in 2019 provides a glimmer of hope in the fight against child exploitation. This significant reduction not only reflects the effectiveness of rigorous law enforcement measures but also indicates societal change towards greater awareness and prevention of child exploitation. Therefore, this figure is crucial in understanding Japan’s broader justice dynamics and the remarkable steps the nation is taking to protect its most vulnerable citizens.

Conclusion

Our deep dive into Japan’s crime statistics reveals an impressive scenario where the crime rate is remarkably low in comparison to global standards. The country’s strict legal measures, an efficient police force, and deeply rooted cultural values of respect and discipline play a significant role in maintaining a safe society. While isolated and minor incidents do exist, they don’t negate the overall safety that characterises the Japanese society. However, evolving socio-economic conditions necessitate constant vigilance and periodic reassessment of law enforcement strategies to ensure continued safety.

References

0. – https://www.www.stats.govt.nz

1. – https://www.www.nichibenren.or.jp

2. – https://www.www.moj.go.jp

3. – https://www.www.reuters.com

4. – https://www.www.stat.go.jp

5. – https://www.www.npa.go.jp

6. – https://www.english.kyodonews.net

7. – https://www.mainichi.jp

8. – https://www.www.nippon.com

9. – https://www.www.statista.com

10. – https://www.www.japantimes.co.jp

FAQs

What is the overall crime rate in Japan?

As of 2019, Japan's recorded crime rate was 1,054 cases per 100,000 population, which is significantly lower compared to other industrialized countries. The rate has been decreasing over the years, making Japan one of the safest countries in the world.

Which crime is most commonly reported in Japan?

Theft is the most commonly reported crime in Japan, making up more than half of all reported crimes. However, it is important to note that the number of thefts has also been decreasing over the years.

How does the murder rate in Japan compare to other countries?

Japan has one of the lowest murder rates in the world. In 2019, there were 0.3 cases of murder per 100,000 population, a rate that is significantly lower than many other countries.

What is Japan's conviction rate?

The conviction rate in Japan is very high, at 99.4%. This rate has come under criticism, with some claiming that it may indicate the occurrence of forced confessions in the justice system.

Which age group in Japan is more likely to engage in criminal activity?

Historically, younger age groups (particularly the 20-29 age group) had the highest crime rates in Japan. However, in recent years, the crime rates for the elderly (those aged 65 and above) have been rising. It's crucial though to separate petty crimes typically associated with the elderly from more serious crimes which still majorly involve younger age groups.

How we write our statistic reports:

We have not conducted any studies ourselves. Our article provides a summary of all the statistics and studies available at the time of writing. We are solely presenting a summary, not expressing our own opinion. We have collected all statistics within our internal database. In some cases, we use Artificial Intelligence for formulating the statistics. The articles are updated regularly.

See our Editorial Process.

Table of Contents

... Before You Leave, Catch This! 🔥

Your next business insight is just a subscription away. Our newsletter The Week in Data delivers the freshest statistics and trends directly to you. Stay informed, stay ahead—subscribe now.

Sign up for our newsletter and become the navigator of tomorrow's trends. Equip your strategy with unparalleled insights!