Exploring Japan's Extensive Surveillance Camera Network

Japan is one of the top 10 countries with the most surveillance cameras in the world. According to a 2019 report, there are 5 million CCTV cameras installed in Japan. However, there are no official statistics, and the actual number may be higher. The proliferation of surveillance cameras in Japan is attributed to the country's low crime rate and efforts to enhance security ahead of major international events such as the 2020 Olympics.

Japan has around 5 million CCTV cameras

In 2012, the Nikkei Shimbun put the number of CCTV cameras in Japan at around 3 million. Today, the number is surely closer to that of the UK, which has between 4 and 6 million.

The widespread installation of security cameras, especially in urban areas, has become a major tool for investigations and is a deterrent to street crime. Security cameras are a constant reminder that crime doesn't pay, and improved security devices on the market now for cars and motorcycles have also contributed to a decrease in theft cases.

CCTV cameras are one of the best security measures that guarantee results, and while their use is permitted all over the world, the systems must be operated responsibly to safeguard the privacy and well-being of those being recorded.

The number of cameras in Japan is similar to the UK

The number of surveillance cameras in Japan is similar to the number in the UK. According to a 2019 report by IHS Markit, there were 1 billion surveillance cameras worldwide by the end of 2021, with China, the United States, and Germany leading the way. China is said to have around 200 million CCTV cameras, while the US has 50 million, and Germany has 5.2 million. The UK and Japan follow closely with 5 to 6 million CCTV cameras each.

The use of surveillance cameras in the UK has grown significantly over the years, with a recent industry report disclosing that there are up to 5.9 million closed-circuit television cameras in the country. This includes 750,000 cameras in sensitive locations such as schools, hospitals, and care homes. The report estimates that there is one camera for every 11 people in the UK, though other sources place this figure at one camera for every 14 people.

The prevalence of surveillance cameras in the UK may have been historically overstated. Legal provisions exist to control and restrict the collection, storage, retention, and use of information obtained through government databases and CCTV cameras operated by local governments or police forces. The Surveillance Camera Code of Practice outlines a code of conduct that must be followed.

While the number of surveillance cameras in Japan is comparable to that of the UK, there are some differences in their usage and perception. In the UK, the use of electronic surveillance has its roots in signal intelligence and code-breaking during World War II, and it has continued to evolve with technological advancements. There is a perception of a "surveillance state" and concerns about the impact on privacy. On the other hand, Japan's extensive network of surveillance cameras is often associated with safety and crime prevention.

There are no official statistics for the number of cameras in Japan

The report also reveals that China is the undisputed leader in CCTV surveillance, with four times more surveillance cameras installed than the United States. China has approximately 200 million CCTV cameras, while the US has 50 million. Germany comes in third place with 5.2 million, followed by the United Kingdom with 6 million, and then Japan.

The number of surveillance cameras worldwide is expanding, with governments seeking more control over their populations. This trend has raised concerns among citizens about their privacy. While China leads in the number of cameras, the United States has the highest number of CCTV cameras per capita.

In terms of cities with the most CCTV cameras, the majority are in China. London is the only non-Asian city in the top 10, with 127,423 cameras serving a population of over 9.6 million people. This equates to 13.21 cameras per 1,000 people or 209.94 cameras per square mile.

When it comes to the types of CCTV cameras, there are several options available, including bullet, dome, C-mount, PTZ (pan/tilt/zoom), day/night, infrared/night vision, network/IP, wireless, and high-definition (HD) cameras. Each type has unique features and is suitable for different applications.

CCTV cameras have both advantages and disadvantages. On the one hand, they can enhance safety, aid law enforcement, monitor sensitive areas, and improve traffic safety. On the other hand, there are concerns about privacy invasion and the potential for misuse of footage.

There are an estimated 3-4 million security cameras in Japan

Japan is a country with a high number of surveillance cameras, with an estimated 3-4 million security cameras installed throughout the country. This number has likely increased in recent years, with the Nikkei Shimbun reporting 3 million cameras in 2012, and the UK having between 4 and 6 million cameras in 2013. The proliferation of surveillance cameras in Japan is notable, as they are now found in various locations beyond just stations, public buildings, and shops.

The presence of surveillance cameras in Japan is linked to the country's low crime rate. Recorded crimes have been at record lows in recent years, falling below 1 million after a peak of 2.85 million in 2002. The widespread installation of security cameras is considered a significant factor in the decline of criminal cases, along with increased police numbers.

The use of surveillance cameras in Japan has raised some concerns about privacy and the potential for misuse. There are no official statistics on the number of cameras, and Japan lacks clear guidelines or laws regulating their use. However, security cameras have been effective in crime prevention and investigations, with improved security devices and technologies contributing to a decrease in theft cases.

The number of criminal cases in Japan has declined for 17 consecutive years

Japan is one of the top 10 countries with the highest number of surveillance cameras. According to a 2019 report by PreciseSecurity.com, the country has 5 million CCTV cameras installed, which is the fourth-highest in the world.

The Decline in Crime Cases

The high conviction rate in Japan, often exceeding 99%, has been a topic of discussion and scrutiny. Scholars attribute this to the country's low prosecution rate and the way Japan calculates its conviction rate, which differs from other nations. Japanese prosecutors tend to pursue cases with a high likelihood of resulting in convictions and defer prosecution in 60% of cases. Additionally, the summary trial procedure, where cases with fines of 1,000,000 yen or less are examined based on documents without a formal trial, accounts for a significant portion of cases.

The introduction of the lay judge system in 2009, where citizens participate in the judicial process, has led to a decline in prosecution and conviction rates. This system emphasizes direct evidence and testimony, making it more challenging to create false convictions.

Reasons for the Decline

The decline in crime cases in Japan can be attributed to various factors, including:

• Aging Population: Japan currently has the oldest population in the world, according to the United Nations. The aging population has led to a decrease in certain types of crimes as older individuals are less likely to engage in criminal activities.
• Government Initiatives: National and local governments have implemented measures such as increased childcare spending and immigration reforms to counter the declining birth rate and its potential impact on society.
• Social Factors: The heavy burden placed on women in Japanese society regarding child-rearing has been noted as a factor influencing the declining birth rate. More than 80% of women take parental leave, compared to only 14% of men, which creates career pressures and financial challenges for younger people starting families.
• Effective Law Enforcement: The close cooperation between law enforcement agencies, such as the police and government prosecutors' offices, has contributed to maintaining public order and crime prevention campaigns.
• Public Participation: Citizens are encouraged to assist in crime prevention and participate in suspect apprehension and offender rehabilitation programs, playing a vital role in maintaining a safe society.

Frequently asked questions