Why Obscene DVD Sellers Remain in Kabukicho Despite Online Availability

Adult content is increasingly regulated each year due to new laws like the AV New Law. Despite these changes, it seems that Kabukicho is ignoring the trend, as unedited obscene DVDs are still being sold there.

According to the Sankei Shimbun on June 3, the Tokyo Metropolitan Police’s Security Division arrested 15 people, including 37-year-old Takahashi Jun, who is homeless and unemployed, on suspicion of distributing obscene electronic records in Kabukicho, Shinjuku Ward.

According to the Security Division, they raided three groups and five stores selling obscene DVDs, including Takahashi’s group, and seized approximately 110,000 DVDs. All of these businesses were operating from private apartments and attracting customers through street soliciting.

Despite frequent crackdowns that lead to the disappearance of such illegal DVD vendors, new shops keep appearing, creating an endless cycle of enforcement.

Given how easily adult content can be accessed online today, why do underground DVD sellers persist in Kabukicho? When asked for insight, an insider familiar with Kabukicho provided an unexpected answer.

“Basically, people who buy illegal DVDs are often men over 60. Many of them either can’t find these videos online or prefer physical copies instead of digital ones.

 

Additionally, in the past, uncensored pornography like illegal videos and books was very popular, so people may not be very aware of the criminal nature of these transactions.”

According to a behind-the-scenes writer, to buy illegal DVDs in Kabukicho, it’s quickest to ask the street recruiters from host or hostess clubs. The writer introduced me to a recruiter, and through him, I was able to learn about stores selling illegal DVDs and the details of these transactions. 

“To buy illegal DVDs, you need to talk to the street recruiters in Kabukicho before the adult entertainment and hostess clubs start their business. Most of these clubs close around 5 p.m., so it’s best to visit Kabukicho in the afternoon. You’ll see specialized recruiters and older men looking for illegal DVDs wandering the streets.

The price for illegal DVDs, including a 5,000 yen commission for the middleman, is around 15,000 yen. You usually get about 30 discs. After receiving the money, they ask what type of content you prefer, such as ‘office lady’ or ‘school uniform’ themes, and then hand over a collection that matches your preferences.”