Is Nishinari Ward really unsafe? Find out the truth

Nishinari Ward in Osaka City is often seen as "the city with the worst security in Japan," and the Airin district in particular is known nationwide as an area with a large number of homeless people and day laborers. Some people say it's "scary," "dangerous," or "uneasy to go there," but today's Nishinari has changed significantly compared to the past. Recently, young people and tourists have started to visit, and the atmosphere of the city as a whole is gradually changing. However, it is true that there are still some areas that are considered to be unsafe.

In this chapter, we will introduce information to help you correctly understand the current state of public safety in Nishinari Ward through the latest impressions, actual crime data, and historical background.

Is Nishinari Ward's "bad public safety" a thing of the past? Latest impressions and changes

Nishinari Ward has long been known as a "bad neighborhood," but that image is becoming a thing of the past. Currently, Nishinari Ward in Osaka City is undergoing redevelopment and safety measures by the local government, local residents, and businesses, and the atmosphere of the neighborhood is changing dramatically. In particular, the Airin district, once considered dangerous, has seen an increase in new restaurants and guesthouses in recent years, transforming it into a popular tourist destination.

Of course, there are still areas where you can see a lot of homeless people and areas where there are few people around at night, and there are still some areas where safety is a concern, but there are also many people who say, "It doesn't seem as bad as it used to be," or "When you actually live there, it's not that scary." There is diversity within the city of Nishinari, and not all areas are uniformly bad. Even those who have vague concerns about Nishinari can get an accurate image by first learning about current information.

Actual crime data and trends

To understand the public safety situation in Nishinari Ward, it's important to check not only Osaka Prefectural Police crime statistics, but also the local atmosphere and the opinions of local residents. In fact, the number of reported criminal offenses has been declining year by year, and snatch thefts, assaults, and shoplifting have also been reduced compared to the past. While the city as a whole is gradually regaining its calm, there are still voices of anxiety in some areas, particularly the Airin district, due to the presence of drunkards and homeless people at night. Even among those who actually live there, there are cases where they feel that "it's better to avoid certain places." Also, even if the number of crimes themselves is decreasing, the local atmosphere and psychological anxiety have not completely disappeared.

Nishinari Ward has many areas around train stations that are safe and secure, and it is perfectly possible to live in such areas. To understand the safety of a city, it is important to look at the actual atmosphere of the city rather than just looking at the numbers.

The main reasons and historical background for the poor public safety

Nishinari Ward's reputation for poor public safety stems from its long history and unique regional characteristics. The Airin district, in particular, developed as one of Japan's few "doya-gai" (lodge towns), a popular gathering place for day laborers and homeless people. Between the 1960s and 2000s, the area was the scene of numerous riots, including attacks on police stations and incidents of stone throwing and arson in the city. These historical incidents were reported on national news, cementing the image of Nishinari Ward as a "dangerous town" and an "area with extremely poor public safety." The large number of people without fixed addresses living there and its complicated relationship with the welfare system have also been discussed as social issues.

Today, efforts to improve public safety are underway, and many of these problems are being resolved, but impressions of the past still linger in the minds of many people. In order to properly understand the town of Nishinari, it is essential to understand its historical background and regional characteristics, rather than simply relying on a superficial image.

Are there differences in public safety within Nishinari Ward? Explained by area

Nishinari Ward in Osaka City is one administrative ward, but even within the city, there are big differences in the safety and atmosphere of each area. There are areas that are said to have bad security, such as the Airin district, but there are also areas that are said to be safe for families and women to live in. In particular, areas around stations and areas undergoing redevelopment have become much more livable, so it is important to understand these differences when looking for a property.

This chapter will provide detailed information on areas in Nishinari Ward where you should be especially careful, as well as areas around stations that are considered to be safe. If you are considering moving or living alone, be sure to read this for reference.

What is the "Airin District" that is said to have bad security?

The so-called "Airin District" is considered to be the most "badly dangerous" area in Nishinari Ward. This area is known as a particularly unique area within Nishinari Ward, Osaka City, and has a social structure that is unlike any other in Japan. For many years, many homeless people and day laborers have gathered here, and the area is lined with cheap lodgings and buildings known as "doya." At the center of the Airin District is Sankaku Park, and the surrounding area has a unique atmosphere that is very different from a typical residential area. If you actually visit this area, you will see many people drinking alcohol in the daytime and sleeping on the streets, which may be a shocking sight for first-time visitors.

Of course, not everyone is in danger, but there is a possibility of getting into trouble in terms of safety, so you need to be careful. Even now, some places are described as "places you should not go," so when choosing a property, we recommend that you check carefully whether it falls into this category.

Spots to be careful of (parks, downtown areas, etc.)

In addition to the Airin district, there are other areas in Nishinari Ward where you should be careful about safety. Public spaces such as Sankaku Park and Shikaku Park in particular attract large crowds day and night, creating a unique atmosphere. These areas are often homeless and elderly, and many people are seen drinking, which may give the impression of being unsettling, especially for women and those with children. Additionally, the areas around Dobutsuenmae Station and Shin-Imamiya Station also retain traces of their former development as entertainment districts and flophouse districts, making them areas where safety is a concern. Walking alone at night can be unsettling, so it's a good idea to check out the actual neighborhood before moving or using them as a commuter route.

However, redevelopment and safety measures are underway in these areas, and things have definitely changed compared to the past. Since crowded areas tend to be more prone to trouble, it is important to carefully check the safety information for each area and choose an area that is easy to live in.

Areas around stations that are considered relatively safe (Tamade, Kishinosato, etc.)

Within Nishinari Ward, the areas around Tamade Station, Kishinosato Station, and Shotenzaka Station are said to be relatively safe. These areas are dominated by residential areas, with few bars or cheap lodgings, giving them a relatively calm atmosphere. The area around Tamade Station in particular has many supermarkets and shops, and all the facilities necessary for daily life are compactly located, making it a popular place to live. The area around Kishinosato Station is also easily accessible, with convenient access to the subway and Nankai Electric Railway.

Of course, it's not completely trouble-free, but compared to the Airin district and the area around Shin-Imamiya Station, the area is clearly safer. While Nishinari Ward has a strong image of being dangerous, there are many exceptions like this, and by choosing the right area to live in, you can achieve a safe and comfortable life. When searching for a property, it's important to carefully check the station name and surrounding area.

Is it dangerous to live in Nishinari Ward? A summary of actual residents' opinions and reviews

Many people considering moving to Nishinari Ward in Osaka City or living alone are concerned about the safety and living environment, wondering, "Is it really safe to live here?" The existence of areas with a reputation for poor safety, such as the Airin district, has strengthened the negative image.

However, there are also many positive opinions from people who actually live in Nishinari. Depending on the residents' values, such as the close proximity to others, low prices, and the unique atmosphere, many people feel that it is "easy to live in."

Here, we will introduce in detail real reviews and personal experiences, as well as common points among people who feel that the area is easy to live in.

Real reviews and experiences from residents

Looking at reviews and experiences from people living in Nishinari Ward, you'll find a surprising number of people saying, "I thought it was a dangerous place, but when I actually lived there, it wasn't that bad." Of course, depending on the area, you might encounter drunk people or homeless people at night, and you might be surprised by the unique atmosphere, but on the other hand, there are also many people who say, "The people are kind," "The rent is cheap," and "There are many supermarkets and shops, so it's convenient."

In particular, many residents have a warm-heartedness that is typical of Osaka, and some appreciate the fact that the culture of helping each other remains within the community. Some people also say that they are able to live without any problems near the Airin district, with some saying that "life is actually more peaceful than they imagined." Some people seem to feel that "this town suits me" or "it's stimulating and interesting." In addition to public safety, the atmosphere of the town and compatibility with the people there are also major factors that determine how easy it is to live there.

Common traits of people who feel that Nishinari is "easy to live in"

People who feel that living in Nishinari Ward is "easy to live in" have several things in common.

First of all, Nishinari is an extremely attractive area for those who prioritize low prices and rent. Despite being in Osaka city, studio and 1K apartments are significantly cheaper than other areas, making it a recommended choice for those who want to keep their living expenses down. It is also a good choice for those who prefer a close-knit community where conversations naturally arise. Some people say that "there is a sense of security and humanity" and "it's hard to feel lonely." Furthermore, for those who enjoy deep Osaka culture, a Showa-era atmosphere, and local shops and restaurants, Nishinari seems to be a unique and interesting town.

In other words, Nishinari is suited to people who value affordability, connections with others, and the unique character of the town. If these values match, it's entirely possible to live here for a long time.

Is public safety improving? Nishinari Ward's safety measures and government initiatives

Nishinari Ward in Osaka City was once known as "the city with the worst security in Japan," but now, thanks to cooperation between the local government, local residents, and the police, the area is steadily improving its public safety. In particular, redevelopment and crime prevention measures have been implemented in areas centered around the Airin district, and the atmosphere of the entire town is changing. In areas where there were previously many homeless people and frequent troubles caused by drunk people, monitoring and cleaning activities have been strengthened, and efforts are being made to create an environment where people can live safely. These efforts are significant not only for residents, but also for tourists and young people.

In this chapter, we will take a closer look at the specific safety measures that Nishinari Ward is taking, as well as the actions and impacts on the ground.

Strengthening police patrols and crime prevention activities

In Nishinari Ward, police patrols and crime prevention activities have been strengthened year by year in light of past deteriorations in public safety. Regular patrols are conducted particularly in the Airin district and surrounding areas, and many local residents and shop owners report an increased sense of security. In fact, in areas such as around Sankaku Park, where trouble used to be frequent, the number of violent incidents and noise problems has been decreasing thanks to police officers' increased monitoring. In addition, increased security, concentrated at night and on weekends, has also helped to prevent trouble in restaurant districts and entertainment districts.

A system similar to a local task force has also been established in cooperation with the Osaka Prefectural Police, and is particularly effective in areas like Nishinari where many people gather. This system of cooperation between the police and the local community plays a major role in ensuring the safety of residents' lives, and it is hoped that this will continue into the future.

Local security camera installation and monitoring activities

In Nishinari Ward, local government and community groups are actively promoting the installation of security cameras and monitoring activities. In particular, efforts are being made to install more surveillance cameras along with streetlights in the Airin district and surrounding areas, which have had many security issues, and this has actually had an effect in deterring crime. Monitoring staff and patrol volunteers are also stationed in high-traffic areas such as school routes, parks, and shopping districts, and a sense of being "watched" and "protected" is gradually taking root throughout the community. Furthermore, these crime prevention activities are important for protecting the elderly, women, and children, and are gaining trust from residents.

Nishinari is an area with a unique atmosphere even within Osaka, but it is true that these grassroots activities are improving the safety of the entire city. Watchful watching activities are not just carried out by a few groups, but are also carried out in collaboration with local governments, shopping districts, schools, and other organizations, and there is a possibility that community-wide safety measures will continue to spread in the future.

Urban development for tourists and young people and its impact

In recent years, Nishinari Ward has been developing its town with tourists and young people in mind, which has contributed in no small way to improving public safety. In particular, around the Airin district, backpacker hostels, budget hotels, and stores aimed at foreign tourists have been opening one after another, creating a new trend in the town. There are also renovated cafes, art galleries, and old house restoration projects, and the area is gaining attention as a place where young people gather.

These trends are gradually changing the image of Nishinari, which has traditionally been thought of as "dangerous" and "dark." Of course, not all areas are uniformly safe, but the increased flow of people and the return of vitality to the city are having a positive impact on crime prevention. Many residents say, "There are a lot of foreign tourists these days, so the city has become brighter," and "It's much easier to live here than it used to be," and the effects of this urban development are clearly evident. This will also be another source of reassurance for those considering living in Nishinari.

Advantages and disadvantages of living in Nishinari Ward

When considering living in Nishinari Ward, Osaka City, many people are concerned about safety, but there are many other factors that go beyond that. Many people who actually live there choose Nishinari for reasons such as extremely low rent, convenient commuting, and the unique and interesting atmosphere of the area. On the other hand, some people feel uneasy about certain areas, such as the Airin district, and it can be said that Nishinari is a city where people are either suited or unsuited.

Here, we will introduce three points to pay particular attention to regarding the advantages and disadvantages of living in Nishinari Ward. For those looking for an affordable place to live in Osaka, or those interested in unique towns, Nishinari may be an option for you.

Extremely low rent and prices

One of the biggest attractions of Nishinari Ward is its low rent. Rent is particularly low even within Osaka City, and it's not uncommon to find studio or one-room apartments for around 30,000 yen. Even cheaper properties can be found around the Airin district, making it a very convenient area for those looking to keep living costs down. Prices for daily necessities and food also tend to be cheaper than in other areas, and it's not uncommon to find prepared meals for around 100 yen in shopping districts and privately owned stores.

Of course, there are reasons behind the low prices, such as security issues and the age of the buildings, so you need to choose your property carefully, but Nishinari's value as a "city where you can live cheaply" is extremely high. For those looking for an area with a good balance between rent and living costs, Nishinari Ward may be a good candidate.

Good transportation access (proximity to Namba and Tennoji)

Nishinari Ward is located in the southern part of Osaka City, and boasts excellent access to major areas of Osaka such as Namba and Tennoji, within a 10-minute train ride. It is served by multiple lines, including the Nankai Electric Railway, Osaka Metro, and JR, and is also an area where key transportation hubs such as Dobutsuen-mae Station, Shin-Imamiya Station, and Tengachaya Station converge. This makes commuting to work or school, as well as travelling throughout Osaka City and the Kansai region, extremely smooth. Despite the low rent, Nishinari's easy access to urban areas means it is highly rated as a great value for money. In fact, many people say, "I commute to Namba or Umeda every day, but I keep costs down by living in Nishinari."

In addition, it is close to popular tourist areas, and in recent years the number of accommodations and restaurants catering to foreign tourists has increased, making it a lively town. Nishinari is an ideal choice for those who prioritize convenient transportation while also looking to keep living costs down.

Suitability for a diverse atmosphere and people

Nishinari Ward is a city with a particularly unique atmosphere, even within Osaka, and its impression varies greatly depending on the values of the people who live there. In particular, the Airin district is home to many homeless people and day laborers, and the streets retain a strong vestige of the Showa era. For those who are attracted to the "diversity" and "diversity of people" of this area, it is a very interesting place. On the other hand, it may not be suitable for those looking for a quiet environment or a well-organized residential area. Some people who actually live there say that "people are close to each other" and "the local people are friendly and give a sense of security," while others feel that "there is a lot of interference, it makes me feel uneasy," or "it's noisy."

Nishinari is home to people from all over the country with a variety of backgrounds. Whether or not you can appreciate the charm of the city as a place where multiple cultures and generations coexist is a key factor in determining how livable it is. Given the nature of the city, it's only natural that Nishinari has a clear divide between those who are a good fit and those who aren't.

Summary: The safety of Nishinari Ward depends on the location and purpose.

Nishinari Ward in Osaka City tends to have a strong image of being "unsafe," as exemplified by the Airin district, but in reality, there are large differences depending on the area. Crime rates are on the decline, and crime prevention activities are being promoted by the government, police, and local residents. There are many relatively quiet areas, such as around Tamade Station and Kishinosato Station, and many people praise the low rent and good accessibility. On the other hand, certain areas retain a unique atmosphere, making it a city that is suitable for some people and not others.

When deciding whether to live in Nishinari, it's important to consider not only the safety and property conditions, but also whether it suits your lifestyle and values. Gather information thoroughly and see the area for yourself before making a decision.

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