A review of crime prevention activities in a Japanese local government area since 2008: Beautiful Windows Movement in Adachi Ward

Abstract There have been limited reports on crime prevention policies by local governments in Japan, which is one of the safest countries world. This article reviews Adachi Ward, used to highest rates Tokyo. The government Ward introduced “Beautiful Windows Movement” (BWM) 2008. Based BWM, implemented various programs and interventions based two different aspects: aspect preventing minor crimes disorder partnership with police referring Broken Theory literally making beautiful cooperation citizen volunteers. After 11 years implementing number recorded declined most Tokyo residents’ sense security improved significantly. case study highlights advantage duality BWM both reduce improve security.