In Japan’s economic heyday, Japanese men often travelled abroad seeking illicit thrills. Today, Tokyo sees a reverse trend, with foreign men flocking to the city for the purpose of “sex tourism.” According to the SCMP, the weakening yen and rising poverty have contributed to this grim reality, says Yoshihide Tanaka, the secretary general of the Liaison Council Protecting Youths (Seiboren)
“Japan has become a poor country,” Tanaka remarks, noting the increasing presence of foreigners in areas like Okubo Park, which has become a hub for the city’s sex trade. Men from diverse backgrounds—predominantly Chinese—frequent these spaces, interacting with young women who have turned to the sex industry to survive.
Teenagers and women in their early twenties face rising violence in this environment. Tanaka laments his organisation’s limited ability to support them. “It’s getting worse. There are more kids here and more violence,” he explains.
Rua*, a 19-year-old who came to Tokyo with hopes of finding work, shares her story. Burdened by debts to a host and high living costs, she turned to sex work in April. Rua describes her life matter-of-factly, detailing encounters with clients and the grim realities of her choices, including two abortions. While Rua attracts customers from various countries, she faces constant risks. “One of my friends was attacked by a Chinese man recently,” she recounts.
The incident underscores a broader issue: customers often exploit these women, because paying for their services gives them the sense of temporarily “owning” these women, also knowing that the women are unlikely to seek police help due to legal repercussions.
Tanaka confirms Rua’s account, citing numerous instances where victims of violence withdraw complaints to avoid being criminalised. “The men know this. They think they can do anything,” he says, frustrated by the authorities’ indifference.
Despite his efforts, Tanaka sees little hope for change, fearing the situation will escalate further. “I think someone is going to get killed sooner or later,” he warns, highlighting the urgency for societal attention to the plight of these young women.
While Tokyo’s bustling Kabukicho district epitomizes nightlife and entertainment, it also casts a stark light on the exploitation and desperation lurking beneath its surface.
Photo by Shotprime @ Envato Elements
