📞 Survival Guide / Survival Phrases

Koban Police Box

Koban Police Box (交番 - Kōban)

Koban Police Box

📖 Meaning & Etiquette

The small neighborhood police sub-stations ('Koban') staffed by officers, located near train stations and major intersections. They handle directions, lost items, and serve as temporary safety shelters.

💡 Cultural Background

Derived from 'Kōban-sho' (alternating watch post) in the late 19th century. This highly effective community-policing system has been internationally studied and officially adopted in Brazil and Singapore.

💬 Useful Conversation Phrases

Look for the red round light bulb indicating a Kōban. Walk inside to ask for directions, submit a lost item, or seek shelter if you feel followed or unsafe. Officers are highly friendly and helpful.

駅の前に交番があるので、道がわからない時はあそこで聞いてみましょう。 / 落とし物の財布を交番に届けたら、お巡りさんが親切に対応してくれました。

🔊 There is a Koban police box in front of the station, so let's ask there if we get lost. / When I returned a lost wallet to the Koban, the officer handled it very kindly.

❓ Bilingual Survival Quiz

What is the small neighborhood police post staffed by officers located near train stations called?

Recommended Learning Resources

VOCAB N5 Vocabulary Practice → KANJI N5 Kanji Stroke Practice → GRAMMAR N5 Grammar Explanation →