The Yakuza - the story of Japan’s mafia 🔫

The word "Yakuza" evokes curiosity, mystery, and sometimes even fear. However, behind the cinematic image of tattooed men and women lies a rich history of honor, subculture, and a lasting influence on society in Japan.

How did it begin, how does the organization operate, and how present is it in modern Japan?

Source: Unsplash

So what is the Yakuza?

In simple terms - the Yakuza is a collection of organized crime groups that have operated in Japan for centuries.

The name “Yakuza” actually comes from an old Japanese card game called Oicho-Kabu.

In the game, the worst possible hand is 8-9-3:

• 8 = ya

• 9 = ku

• 3 = za

Over time, the term became slang for gamblers, outcasts, and people living on the margins of society.

Despite their criminal activities, some Japanese people historically viewed them as anti-heroes - figures associated with loyalty, honor, and occasionally even helping communities during disasters.

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How did it start?

The modern Yakuza began taking shape during the Edo period (1603–1868) and was mainly formed from two groups:

Tekiya - illegal street vendors and smugglers

Bakuto - professional gamblers

Eventually, the groups expanded into organizations with thousands of members - some even operating outside Japan.

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How is the Yakuza structured?

The Yakuza is organized like a family.

At the top stands the oyabun (the boss), and beneath him are members of different ranks called kobun (“children”).

Some members are recognizable by large traditional tattoos (irezumi), and others by a missing fingertip (yubitsume) - a ritual act of apology or punishment.

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And what about the Yakuza today?

Despite strict laws and government pressure, Yakuza groups still operate in areas such as money laundering, gambling, lending, real estate, and even some technology sectors.

However, their public influence has declined significantly in recent decades.

Contrary to popular belief, the Yakuza does not operate completely underground.

Some groups even maintain official offices in major cities like Kobe, Osaka, and Tokyo - though don’t expect to walk in and hear “Hello Yakuza, how may we help you?”

Across Japan - especially at the entrance to bathhouses, restaurants, hotels, and small businesses - you may notice signs reading “No Yakuza” or “No organized crime members.”

They’re part of an effort to keep public spaces safe and prevent extortion or violence. Sometimes the sign includes a cartoon figure with tattoos crossed out.

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What are the chances of encountering the Yakuza while traveling?

Very low.

Over the past decades, strict legislation and social pressure have drastically reduced the visible presence of organized crime, pushing activity into quieter and more discreet channels.

For most people today, the Yakuza is far more a fascinating historical-cultural phenomenon than an everyday reality - and Japan remains one of the safest countries in the world, for locals and travelers alike.