Yazuka 101

Say you move to Japan or spend a few months visiting. How would you know if your neighbor was a member of the Japanese mafia, a shady character committing all manner of violent acts, even taking giant bowls of steaming udon noodles without paying for them? Thankfully, Amy Chavez explains the basics in the Japan Times. She speaks from experience, having recently discovered that her neighbors fit the profile. “Does your neighbor take part in nocturnal motorcycle revving?” she writes. “This is a favorite activity of the bosozoku, many of whom go on to join the ranks of yakuza or other organized crime groups.” Or how about this one: “Does your neighbor call any of his friends ‘aniki,’ the term used to refer to a senior gang member?” If so, be afraid. Be very afraid.

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