If you ever feel like you're being followed in Japan, visit one of these stores, because it might just save your life.
You see, in the early 2000s, Japan witnessed a concerning rise in violent crime.
And after a number of high-profile cases involving women being stalked and children attacked on the way to school, Japanese authorities tried something crazy.
They realized that these convenience stores are everywhere here, and they often even outnumber police stations and boxes.
They're also bright, full of cameras, open 24/7, and they always have at least one member of staff on duty.
So, in 2005, they launched an official nationwide crime prevention partnership with these stores.
From that day on, they would act as a safe station for women, children, or anyone who feels like they're in danger.
And in just one year after launching, the results were staggering.
More than 13,000 women took refuge in a convenience store.
Around 6,000 lost children found help here, and about 12,000 elderly people were reunited with loved ones after wandering away from home.
And now, over a decade later, more than 50,000 stores participate as safety stations, including 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, Lawson, and that covers a staggering 99% of stores nationwide.
So, make sure to share this video with someone visiting Japan, because who knows, it might just save their life.
Convenience stores in Japan are so much more than just stores!🤯🇯🇵