Navigating “Kōban Katsudō”: A Guide to Police Encounters in Japan

Living in Japan comes with many delights, but for foreigners, unexpected police encounters can be confusing and even anxiety-inducing. 交番活動 Kōban katsudō, or routine police questioning on the street, is a common practice, but knowing your rights and communicating effectively can make the experience much smoother.

A Quick Jump To…

• What Is 交番活動 Kōban katsudō
• What To Expect In This Situation
• Before We Begin
• Useful Japanese Phrases
• Pro Tips

What Is 交番活動 Kōban katsudō

• Police officers have the authority to stop and question anyone on the street, even if they don’t have any reason to suspect them of wrongdoing.
• The purpose of Kōban Kōhatsu is to gather information about the community and to deter crime.

What To Expect In This Situation

• If you’re stopped by a police officer, they will usually ask you for your name, address, and occupation.
• They may also ask you where you’re coming from and where you’re going.
• In some cases, they may ask you to show them your identification.

Before We Begin

• Remember: Stay calm and polite. Japanese culture emphasizes respect and cooperation with authority figures. Raising your voice or showing defiance will only escalate the situation, even if you feel uncomfortable. Answer the officer’s questions honestly, but you don’t have to answer any questions you’re uncomfortable with. Lastly, ask the officer to clarify if you don’t understand something.
• Know your rights: You have the right to ask why you’re being stopped and if it’s a 職務質問 shokumu shitsumon, or official questioning, which requires probable cause. You can also ask to see the officer’s ID.
• Learn some key phrases: Having even a few basic Japanese phrases on hand can go a long way.

Useful Japanese Phrases

• え？！何でしょうか？ E? ! Nanndeshou ka? – Eh, what happened?
• 職務質問ですか？ Shokumu shitsumondesu ka? – Is this official questioning?
• 英語がわかりますか？ Eigo ga wakarimasu ka? – Do you speak English?
• 理解できないんですが。 Rikai dekinai ndesuga. – I don’t understand.
• 申し訳ないんですが、日本語が上手じゃないので。 Mōshiwakenai ndesuga, nihongo ga jōzu janainode. – I’m sorry, my Japanese isn’t very good.
• (Language) がわかる人を呼んでもらえますか。 (Language) ga wakaru hito o yonde moraemasu ka. – Please call someone who speaks my language.

Pro Tips

• Carry your 在留カード zairyu card, or residence card, or passport at all times. Not having it is punishable by a fine.
• Speak slowly and clearly, and listen carefully to the officer’s questions.
• Don’t feel obligated to answer every question, especially if it feels personal or irrelevant.
• If you’re unsure about something, politely ask for clarification.
• If you feel uncomfortable or unsafe, request to speak to a superior officer or call your embassy.

Remember: Most police officers simply do their job to maintain public safety. You can ensure a smooth and positive interaction by staying calm, respectful, and cooperating.

Disclaimer: This is not legal advice. If you have concerns about your rights or specific situations, consult a lawyer or local embassy.