This is not surprising either. Japan, like other countries we consider an ‘exotic destination’, often has a rose-tinted wall over it. This is not necessarily a bad thing either – after all, it is a place we admire and want to explore.
However, there is a growing population of homeless people. In fact, you may come across one or two of these during your next trip to Japan.
If you are wondering about homelessness in Japan, then read on to find out what you need to know.
Which Cities In Japan Have The Highest Rates Of Homelessness?
Japan has a huge population with lots of urban space. The three cities that have the highest population of homelessness in Japan are Osaka, Yokohama, and Tokyo.
Due to the high population of people who are attracted to such places, it means that there is a bigger demand for things like housing and basic needs.
However, when places become attractive, it means costs go up. When things get more expensive, those who cannot afford to live are the ones who struggle.
This can result in them looking for temporary accommodation, or having to be homeless.
Some people will spend their time in Internet cafes, however, most homeless people end up creating their own shelters. This can include using cardboard, or even sleeping under a bridge.
Being out on the streets also means that they have no safety either.
Why Do People Become Homeless In Japan?
While homelessness is a big problem in Japan, it has seen a decline in recent years. There were more than 25,000 people homeless in Japan in 2003. Jump to 2022 and that number is under 5,000 people.
It is men who often make up the majority of homeless people in Japan. This is because the issue of homelessness often has to do with social problems. For this reason, it can affect both older men and those who are middle-aged.
Here are some general reasons why there are homeless people in Japan:
Unemployed
When a person becomes unemployed, it can either happen suddenly, or they have been out of work for a while. When this happens, they often cannot afford their mortgage or rent.
Not having a secure job can easily lead to becoming homeless – and without a job, it can be difficult to find housing.
High Property Prices
The demand for property increases in attractive urban areas. Many people move to cities in order to find better work and to have a better way of life. However, doing so drives up the demand for housing in that area.
Those who are already living in poverty cannot afford to pay the increase in rent or fees. This means that they are often forced to move out, which can make some people homeless.
Living In Poverty
Just like we stated above, living in poverty is a huge factor in becoming homeless. Whether struggling to find work, becoming unemployed suddenly, or off work long-term, having little to no income can cause financial hardship.
It is not uncommon for minimum wage workers to not be able to afford rising housing or living costs.
If a person is unskilled and has to take particular low-paid jobs, this can also affect income and the ability to be able to afford to pay something like rent.
Older Age
There is a huge issue in Japan when it comes to societal views and structure, especially when it comes to old age. As an older person, it is difficult to find successful employment, which can lead to struggling financially.
Women tend to find that they get the most support from friends and families, however, this is not always the case. Men tend to struggle harder, as they are meant to ‘settle’ with their situation.
This can cause them to become unemployed and homeless.
Physical And Mental Illness
There are two reasons why those with physical and mental illnesses might end up homeless. One is because their treatment might be too expensive and the poverty they face makes them homeless.
Or, their own family struggles with their illness, and they lose the support that they need.
Violence In The Home
Suffering from domestic violence in the home can be a contributing factor to homelessness. If a person has nobody to turn to, they often run away.
While they will have left the abuse at home, they can find themselves homeless.
This is because they have had to leave their home to get away from the domestic violence situation. If they couldn’t find support elsewhere, it is unlikely they are going to return back home.
How Is Japan Helping Its Homelessness?
The main areas of help when it comes to homelessness in Japan are religious-based groups and volunteer-led organizations.
They help to provide the support people need. This also includes emergencies such as feeding a person rice and giving a person clothes.
There are many soup kitchens available too that can be accessed by those with no home. It means that a person can have a hearty meal full of nutrients.
There are also many drop-in centers where homeless people can speak with others going through the same thing, but also have some respite from the streets.
Can Citizens Help With Homelessness In Japan?
As a citizen, you may want to help with homelessness in an area like Japan. There are a few things you can do to help.
For example, you can help out as a volunteer, or provide care packages for those in need. You should also think about treating the homeless like human beings because that is what they are.
You can also educate others on helping those who are homeless, especially if you have begun volunteering. Raising awareness is one of the best ways to get others on board with helping the homeless in Japan.
If You Find Yourself Homeless In Japan, What Can You Do?
If for some reason you find yourself homeless in Japan, then you will need to contact the right resources. If you are on a visa, then speaking to local authorities should be your first port of call.
However, if you have become a resident of Japan, then you will want to take advantage of the help that is available. This is in the form of dedicated drop-in centers and soup kitchens.
You may even be able to find temporary accommodation while you get yourself back on your feet. Always remember that you’re not alone.
Final Thoughts
Like many other countries, Japan has a problem with homelessness in general. This is especially true in populated areas such as Tokyo, Osaka, and Yokohama.
With rising rent and the demand for urban areas shooting up, it is not surprising that people are forced to live out on the streets.
However, Japan’s records show that the homelessness rate is actually decreasing. There has been a large decline over the past 15 years.
Even so, there are many things people can do to reduce the number of homeless people even further.
Hi, I’m Jason Patrick, and for as long as I have been alive, I have been obsessed with Japanese culture. From the sights and sounds of Japan’s many cities to its culinary delights that have become famous worldwide, I simply cannot get enough of this wonderful nation!
I hope that, by exploring this website, you all will develop a much deeper appreciation for Japan, and that it may even influence you to pay it a visit yourself eventually! It is definitely a trip of a lifetime, and whether you experience it firsthand, or through my own website, I’m sure you will become just as passionate as I always have been!
