Koban Day (Police Box Day)
OtherWhat Is Koban Day?
The 27th of every month is "Koban no Hi," or Police Box Day, in Japan. It was established by the Kanagawa Prefectural Police and has been observed since June 27, 1994. The date refers to November 27, 1872, when Kanagawa Prefecture's governing ordinance was enacted and a section of rasotsu -- the forerunners of police officers -- was created.
Where the Word "Koban" Was Born
The duty regulations for those rasotsu are said to contain the word "koban," which was not yet in common use at the time. The term comes from the idea of standing watch in rotation.
- Established by: the Kanagawa Prefectural Police
- Observed since: June 27, 1994
- Origin of the date: the creation of the rasotsu section under Kanagawa's governing ordinance on November 27, 1872
- Purpose: to build communities where people can live with peace of mind
KOBAN Travels Abroad Under Its Own Name
The koban is known as a distinctly Japanese form of policing, and the idea of small neighborhood bases that patrol and take walk-in consultations has been introduced overseas. It also serves as a counter for lost property and directions, not only for crime.
Tips for Marking This Day
- Note where the koban is along your commute and near your home
- If you have lost something, ask whether it has been handed in
- Review your locking-up habits before the New Year rush
- Show children where they can go for help if they are in trouble
A Safety Post So Familiar We Stop Noticing It
A koban is easy to overlook until you need one. Year's end brings more people coming and going, so December 27 is a good day to fix in your mind where the koban on your route actually is.