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bicycle anti-theft registration
A legally required registration system for bicycles in Japan. A numbered sticker is attached to the bicycle frame, linking it to the owner's personal information in a police database. Helps identify stolen bicycles and verify ownership.
Cultural note
Mandatory since 1994 under Japanese law. The registration costs around 500-600 yen and is valid for 7-10 years depending on the prefecture. Police frequently check registration stickers during routine stops, especially at night. When selling or giving away a bicycle, the registration should be transferred. An unregistered bicycle can be treated as suspicious.