Honest Tokyo residents turned in record US$30 million in lost cash last year
Tokyo residents turned in a record 4.49 billion yen (US$30 million) in lost cash to authorities in 2024, underscoring Japan's reputation for honesty. This figure represents a 1.8% increase over 2023, highlighting the country's commitment to returning lost property even amidst economic challenges.
Authorities attribute the rise in reported lost cash to increased public activity following the pandemic and a surge in foreign tourism. Japanese law mandates that found money be turned over to the police, with finders entitled to a reward of 5-20% if the owner claims it. Unclaimed money goes to the finder after three months, and if unclaimed after an additional two months, it goes to the local government, benefiting Tokyo with approximately 600 million yen last year.
via SCMP Full Text Feed
Tokyo residents turned in a record 4.49 billion yen (US$30 million) in lost cash to authorities in 2024, underscoring Japan's reputation for honesty. This figure represents a 1.8% increase over 2023, highlighting the country's commitment to returning lost property even amidst economic challenges.
Authorities attribute the rise in reported lost cash to increased public activity following the pandemic and a surge in foreign tourism. Japanese law mandates that found money be turned over to the police, with finders entitled to a reward of 5-20% if the owner claims it. Unclaimed money goes to the finder after three months, and if unclaimed after an additional two months, it goes to the local government, benefiting Tokyo with approximately 600 million yen last year.
via SCMP Full Text Feed
