1.
police box, police substation
A small neighborhood police station staffed by one or a few officers. Found throughout Japanese cities and towns, they serve as local points of contact for directions, lost-and-found, and minor incidents. Officially renamed to 交番 in 1994, but 派出所 remains widely used.
派出所で道を聞いた。
I asked for directions at the police box.
財布を拾ったので派出所に届けた。
I found a wallet and turned it in at the police box.
駅前の派出所のおまわりさんはとても親切だ。
The officer at the police box in front of the station is very kind.
USAGE:
The official term was changed to 交番 in 1994, but 派出所 is still commonly used, especially by older speakers and in some regional dialects. Both terms refer to the same type of facility.
CULTURE:
Police boxes are a distinctive feature of Japanese urban life. They are small, staffed stations typically found near train stations, busy intersections, and residential areas. Officers handle lost property, give directions, and patrol the neighborhood. The system is widely credited with contributing to Japan's low crime rate.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 駅前の派出所: police box in front of the station
- 派出所に届ける: to turn in (lost items) at the police box
- 派出所の警官: police box officer