Why Japan has a "Security Camera Day" on July 8th

Today, and July 8th annually is Security Camera Day 防犯カメラの日 (Bousai kamera no Hi) in Japan. The anniversary was established by Japan Security System to raise awareness of the importance and, unfortunately, the increasing necessity of security cameras in everyday life. The date of the anniversary comes from a twist on the date: "Na (7) kunare ha (8) nzai" which means "end crime".

The company behind the day has long been a pioneer in Japan’s security‑camera industry. Upon its founding, it released Japan’s first outdoor infrared LED‑equipped camera, making nighttime recording possible and helping popularize outdoor surveillance nationwide. Today, its cameras are used across Japan - in government offices, apartment buildings, convenience stores, hospitals and countless other locations.

In the photo above, a security camera watches over a Torii at the entrance to Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine. Obviously, I don't know who made this camera, but I like how subtle it is and how it blends well with the charming lamppost. I actually didn't spot it in real time; it was only when I was looking at the photos afterward that I noticed it. It makes a fitting photo for Japan's "Security Camera Day"!