What is Japanese Upskirt? “Upskirt” photography refers to the act of taking photographs or videos underneath someone’s clothing without their consent, typically to capture images of the person’s underwear or private areas. This practice is illegal in many countries, including Japan, as it constitutes a violation of privacy and can be classified as sexual harassment or a form of voyeurism.

The issue of Japanese upskirt photography gained significant attention, particularly in public spaces like trains, where crowded environments created opportunities for offenders to engage in this behavior discreetly. In response, Japan implemented stricter laws and penalties to combat this violation of privacy, such as banning certain types of smartphone features (like silent camera shutters) to prevent such incidents.

In 2021, Japanese police made over 5,000 arrests for clandestine photography, marking a record high and nearly triple the number of cases reported in 2010. A survey conducted by a national aviation trade union in March revealed that around 70% of flight attendants in Japan had experienced instances of Japanese upskirt where their photos were secretly taken without their consent.

Punishment for Japanese Upskirt

The punishment for Japanese upskirt, or voyeurism, falls under the Anti-Nuisance Ordinance (also known as the Public Nuisance Prevention Ordinance) in various prefectures. Penalties can vary depending on the location and the severity of the offense, but typical punishments include:

1. Fines

• Offenders can face fines ranging from ¥500,000 (about USD 3,400) to ¥1,000,000 (about USD 6,800), depending on the severity and jurisdiction.

2. Imprisonment

• The maximum sentence for Japanese upskirt photography can be up to 1 year in prison, especially in cases involving repeat offenders or aggravated circumstances.

3. Repeat Offenders

• Those caught multiple times may face harsher penalties, including longer prison sentences, heavier fines, and mandatory psychological counseling.

4. Invasion of Privacy Laws

• In cases where photos or videos are distributed without consent, offenders can also be charged under privacy invasion laws, which carry additional penalties such as further imprisonment or higher fines.

5. Sex Offender Registry

• In some cases, especially if the crime involves minors, offenders may be placed on a sex offender registry.

Japanese authorities have increased enforcement in recent years due to the growing use of technology in committing these crimes, and penalties are designed to serve as both punishment and deterrence.

Akihabara Incident (2019)

• In 2019, a man was arrested in the Akihabara district of Tokyo for using a hidden camera in his shoe to film upskirt videos of women on escalators. Akihabara is known for being a crowded area, attracting tourists and locals alike, which makes it a prime target for such incidents.
• The man used a small, wearable camera in his shoe, a technique commonly employed by offenders to avoid detection. This case drew attention to how technology is often used to facilitate voyeurism.

Shinjuku Train Station Case (2021)

• In 2021, a man was caught filming upskirt videos of women at the busy Shinjuku Station in Tokyo using his smartphone. He was caught when an observant passenger reported suspicious behavior to station staff, who apprehended him on the spot.
• The incident raised awareness about how bystanders can play a role in helping to prevent these crimes by reporting suspicious activity.

School Teacher Arrested (2022)

• In early 2022, a schoolteacher in Osaka was arrested for taking upskirt photos of a high school student. The teacher had been caught red-handed after a fellow commuter noticed his inappropriate behavior and reported it to the police.
• This case caused outrage, especially because the offender held a position of trust, working with children and young people. It sparked discussions about the need for more stringent checks on individuals in professions involving minors.

Repeat Offender in Tokyo (2018)

• A 40-year-old man in Tokyo was arrested in 2018 for filming upskirt videos of women on escalators in a shopping mall. This was not the man’s first arrest for similar crimes; he was a repeat offender, having been previously caught and fined for upskirt voyeurism.
• This case underscored the need for harsher penalties for repeat offenders, as well as better tracking of those with previous convictions related to voyeurism.

 Hidden Cameras in Shoes Case (2016)

• In another widely reported incident in 2016, a man was arrested at a Kyoto train station for using a camera concealed in his shoe to film upskirt videos. He had been targeting women using the station escalator.
• This case brought further scrutiny to how hidden cameras, especially those designed to be worn or concealed in clothing or accessories, make it easier for offenders to commit these acts.

 Upskirt Video Distribution Rings

• In some cases, upskirt photography isn’t just an isolated incident but part of a larger operation involving the distribution and sale of such videos online. In 2020, police in Tokyo uncovered a ring involved in the sale of illicit voyeur videos, including upskirt footage, online. Several individuals were arrested, and thousands of videos were seized.
• This discovery highlighted the role that technology and online platforms can play in facilitating the spread of illegal content, complicating law enforcement efforts.

Smartphone Features To Combat the issue of Japanese Upskirt

To combat the issue of Japanese upskirt, several smartphone manufacturers have implemented specific camera features designed to prevent covert or inappropriate use. These features are primarily aimed at ensuring transparency and discouraging clandestine photography. Key features include:

1. Mandatory Shutter Sound

• In Japan, smartphones sold by domestic carriers are required to emit a loud, audible shutter sound when taking a photo. This sound cannot be turned off, even in silent or vibration mode. The purpose is to make it obvious when someone is taking a picture, thereby discouraging inappropriate or secretive photography in public spaces.
• This feature applies to both Japanese and imported smartphones sold through official channels in Japan.

2. No Silent Mode for Cameras

• Many smartphone models in Japan prevent the camera from operating silently, regardless of the phone’s settings. Users are unable to modify or disable the shutter sound through software, which limits the potential for illicit use, such as upskirt photography.

3. Third-Party Camera App Restrictions

• Some app stores in Japan restrict third-party camera apps that allow for silent photography. This is to prevent users from bypassing the mandatory shutter sound through alternative camera apps.

4. Restrictions on Modifications

• Japan has strict rules against modifying smartphones to disable the shutter sound or to use hidden cameras. Any modifications or apps designed to mute the shutter sound can result in legal penalties.

5. Monitoring and Enforcement

• Japanese smartphone carriers and manufacturers work together with law enforcement to ensure these features are in place and to monitor for potential loopholes that offenders might use.

These features reflect Japan’s proactive approach to curbing voyeurism and protecting individual privacy, particularly in public places like trains and shopping areas.