A kōban (Japanese: 交番) is a small neighborhood police station found in Japan. The term also refers to the smallest organizational unit in a modern Japanese Prefectural police department. [1]

Japan’s Koban protect people’s safety and security, and keep watch over us with a clearly recognizable presence. The hard work of the people at these Koban help build Japan into a country that boasts one of the highest levels of safety around the world.

Nov 16, 2020 · There are now approximately 6,509 koban (police boxes) throughout Japan (2004 figures). Koban began as small shelters for Tokyo's fledgling police service in the 1880's back in the modernizing Meiji Period of Japan's history.

Jun 26, 2019 · “KOBAN,” the Japanese policing system spreading across the globe Japan is known for its low crime rates, and one of the reasons for that is “Koban,” or neighborhood police outposts, which have been developed for many years in Japan.

Mar 13, 2024 · Kobans are small neighborhood police stations open 24 hours a day, with a rotating staff of 3 to 10 officers. Attached to a larger police station, there are some 6,000 kôban throughout Japan, including 1,000 in Tokyo alone.

Jan 21, 2025 · The Koban system remains a cornerstone of safety and security in Japan, but adapting to modern demands is crucial. From assisting an increasingly global audience to leveraging cutting-edge tools, Koban have transformed to meet 21st-century challenges head-on.

Sep 20, 2020 · Originating in Japan, “Koban” have been internationally recognized as an effective policing system that is deep-rooted in the local communities.

Oct 7, 2024 · You may not expect it but people in Japan probably use koban the most for asking directions. In fact, I have seen police officers assisting several different groups with a map at the koban near Shinjuku Station (a prime spot for getting …

Oct 10, 2017 · What is known as the koban, in the Japanese language, is a small police unit located in residential communities. It is known to be the smallest faction of Japan’s police department which has been intended to provide safety assurance and protection to their localities.

In Japan, the Kōban, or neighborhood police box, is a ubiquitous feature of the urban landscape. These small police stations, typically staffed by one or two officers, play a critical role in maintaining community safety and order.