In recent years, the city of Kawaguchi in Saitama Prefecture has become a focal point for heated discussions about Japan’s growing immigrant communities, particularly those from Kurdish backgrounds. Online forums and social media buzz with stories of cultural clashes, traffic woes, and public disturbances, often painting a picture of tension between locals and newcomers. But what’s the real story behind these headlines? Drawing from firsthand accounts and local reports, this post dives into the complexities of the “Kurdish problem” in Kawaguchi, exploring its roots, impacts, and the reactions from Japanese residents. We’ll translate and expand on a key excerpt from the book The Surprising ‘Kurdish Problem’ (published by Shinchosha), while adding context to help an international audience understand this nuanced issue.
The Rise of Tensions in Kawaguchi 
Kawaguchi, a bustling suburb north of Tokyo, has seen a significant influx of Kurdish people since the 2000s, with numbers estimated at around 2,000 to 3,000 as of 2025. Many Kurds in Japan hail from Turkey, fleeing political persecution and seeking asylum. However, Japan’s strict immigration policies—accepting only about 1.5% of asylum applications in 2024—leave most in a limbo state known as “provisional release,” where they can stay but lack full work rights. This precarious status pushes many into informal jobs, like demolition and construction, which are common in the area.
One of the most talked-about issues is the so-called “Kurd cars”—trucks driven by Kurds, often overloaded and operated without proper licenses. According to local councilors, many Kurds lack the legal qualifications to work or drive heavy vehicles, leading to violations of road safety laws. These trucks speed through neighborhoods, crashing into fences or poles, and drop debris like wood and metal due to exceeding load limits. While such reckless driving isn’t unique to any group, the visibility of these incidents in Kawaguchi has made “Kurd cars” a symbol of broader frustrations. Journalist Takaaki Ishii’s viral photos of overloaded trucks amplified this nationwide, sparking widespread debate.
Beyond traffic, everyday disturbances add to the strain. Parks, meant as safe spaces for families, have become sites of controversy. In one notable case at Chuo-dori Park (affectionately called “Egg Park” for its egg-shaped toilet design), Kurdish teenagers—many second-generation, born in Japan or arriving to join parents—were reported engaging in sexual activities in the public restrooms. Come morning, the area would be littered with used condoms, torn stockings, empty bottles, and cigarette butts. When an elderly Japanese woman confronted them, she was met with shouts in broken Japanese: “Shut up, old hag!” Terrified, she began avoiding the park altogether.
Confrontations with adult men prompted the teens to relocate, hopping from park to park across the city. In frustration, some even vandalized the toilets they used. Local councilors like Seiichi Okutomi and Seiko Aoyama receive daily complaints about such incidents. During a visit in early 2025, the damaged toilet at Egg Park had been repaired—at taxpayers’ expense, of course. Surrounded by apartments with minimal greenery, it’s shocking to imagine middle schoolers using such a spot for intimate encounters. These problems, councilors say, have escalated since the mid-2010s, turning from occasional nuisances into a pressing concern that can’t be ignored.
Cultural Clashes and Broader Context
To understand these issues, it’s essential to look at the bigger picture. Kurds in Kawaguchi often work in “employee cafeterias” at demolition sites, where communal meals highlight their tight-knit community bonds. Many are hardworking individuals contributing to Japan’s labor-short economy, but cultural differences exacerbate tensions. For instance, louder social gatherings or different norms around public spaces can clash with Japan’s emphasis on harmony and quietude.
Illegal activities, like waste dumping and unauthorized work, have also drawn scrutiny. In May 2025, Japan’s Liberal Democratic Party policy chief visited Kawaguchi to address these reports, signaling growing political attention. Meanwhile, far-right groups have fueled xenophobia, with over 25 million inflammatory social media posts targeting Kurds by April 2025. Protests in Tokyo against the Kurdish community escalated in early 2025, organized by right-wing factions. This wave of resentment reflects Japan’s broader struggle with immigration as its population ages and shrinks.
Reactions from Japanese People
Japanese residents’ responses vary, but frustration is palpable. Many locals feel their quality of life eroding due to noise, litter, and perceived safety threats. Vigilante groups like the “Kawaguchi Self-Defense Group” patrol neighborhoods, reporting sightings of Kurds and other foreigners, often with alarmist tones about “invasions” or crime spikes. Online, X (formerly Twitter) is rife with posts decrying “Kurdish troubles,” from damaged infrastructure to cultural insensitivities. One user lamented the double standards in leftist politics, comparing Kurds to other groups while highlighting issues like gender norms in some immigrant communities.
Yet, not all reactions are negative. Some Japanese attend photo exhibitions showcasing Kurdish life in Saitama, fostering empathy. Longtime residents note they’ve never personally encountered problems, emphasizing that blanket generalizations overlook peaceful integrations. Politicians like Prime Minister Takahashi have addressed concerns, acknowledging the concentration of Kurds as a “significant problem” while pushing for balanced policies. Overall, the discourse reveals a society grappling with diversity, where fear and misunderstanding often overshadow calls for dialogue.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Why are there so many Kurds in Kawaguchi, Japan?
Kawaguchi’s Kurdish population grew due to chain migration from Turkey, attracted by job opportunities in construction. Many seek asylum from persecution but face Japan’s low approval rates, leading to prolonged stays on provisional status.
2. What are the main issues reported involving Kurds in Kawaguchi?
Common complaints include traffic violations with overloaded trucks, public disturbances in parks, illegal waste dumping, and noise from gatherings. These stem partly from legal limbo and cultural differences.
3. How are Japanese authorities responding to these challenges?
Local councilors handle complaints, while national politicians have visited to discuss reforms. There’s talk of increased deportations and stricter enforcement, with budgets allocated for immigration control in 2025.
4. Is the entire Kurdish community responsible for these problems?
No, many Kurds integrate well and contribute positively. Issues often involve a minority, amplified by media and social biases. Promoting understanding and legal pathways could help bridge gaps.
Moving Toward Understanding and Solutions
The “Kurdish problem” in Kawaguchi isn’t just about one group—it’s a microcosm of Japan’s immigration dilemmas. As the country opens up to foreign workers to combat demographic decline, fostering mutual respect is key. By addressing root causes like asylum backlogs and cultural education, both communities can coexist more harmoniously. If you’re interested in global migration stories or Japan’s evolving society, share your thoughts below—what do you think could help resolve these tensions?
