A viral video showing a passer-by deliberately pushing a young girl who was taking photos at the Shibuya crossing in Tokyo has brought renewed attention to the “butsukari” phenomenon. The term refers to people (usually men) who deliberately and repeatedly bump into or shove passers-by (usually women) in crowded areas in Japan.
The phenomenon was first documented in 2018, when a video showed a man pushing women at Shinjuku Station, the busiest railway station in the world. Since then, many incidents have been reported. In a 2024 survey of more than 20,000 people, 14% said they had experienced such deliberate pushing.
Since then, many incidents have been reported. In a 2024 survey of more than 20,000 people, 14% said they had experienced such deliberate pushing.
Last May, a 59-year-old associate professor was arrested in Fukuoka on suspicion of attacking multiple passers-by by hitting them with his bag as he walked past them. He faces up to two years in prison or a fine of up to 300,000 yen.
Other incidents have been reported around Tamachi Station in Tokyo, including a case in which a woman was pushed so hard that her ribs were broken. Passengers are now required to move in lanes separated by posts when approaching or leaving the station.
Professors of criminal psychology attribute the phenomenon to social pressure and stress, gender stereotypes, as well as frustration among locals with tourists who stop to take photos.
Source: Guardian
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