Japan Has a Problem So Complex It Has Its Own Expression: Butsukari Otoko. It’s What They Use to Describe Men Who Attack Women in Train Stations

One of the most fascinating aspects of the Japanese language is its ability to encapsulate complex social phenomena in a single expression—words that might require an entire sentence to explain elsewhere. Now, another such term has emerged: butsukari otoko, referring to men who deliberately ram into women.

Assaults in crowded places. According to the Japan Times, Japan’s packed trains and stations have led to a troubling issue: aggressive men known as butsukari otoko (ぶつかり男, “bumping man”) who intentionally collide with women in stations and stairways.

These individuals—mostly chūnen dansei (“middle-aged men”)—have been caught on multiple occasions using their bodies, elbows, and even more violent blows, such as punches and kicks. Since 2018, videos of these attacks have circulated widely on social media plaatforms, showing that most victims are women, pregnant women, or people with strollers.

Why does this happen? Experts suggest these attackers use the behavior as a form of sutoresu kaishō (“stress relief”), often targeting those they perceive as vulnerable. Some attack silently, while others verbalize their aggression with phrases like jama nanda yo (“You’re in the way”) or doke yo (“Move aside”).

Another related issue is the presence of dokanai ojisan (“unmoving middle-aged men”)—individuals who deliberately block spaces and refuse to step aside, even in priority areas.

No equivalent term for women. While there are specific terms for aggressive men on public transport, no widely recognized equivalent exists for women exhibiting similar behavior. A neutral term, butsukari kata, has been suggested, but its use remains limited.

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In such situations, the default response is often sumimasen (“Excuse me”). However, more assertive phrases like tōrimasu (“Coming through”) or tōshite kudasai (“Please let [me] go through”) can be more effective. When dealing with a butsukari otoko, something stronger like doite kudasai (“Please move aside”) may be necessary.

How to respond to an aggressive act. The Japan Times advises that if the collision seems intentional, a natural reaction might be to say itai (“Ouch!”) or simply abunai (“Watch out!”). However, experts caution against aggressive responses such as fuzakeruna (“Stop fooling around!”) or nan’nano (“What’s the matter?”), as they could escalate the situation.

In serious cases, use common sense: ask for help with tasukete kudasai (“Please help!”) and file a report if needed.

Legal consequences for butsukari. Railway companies warn that these assaults fall under meiwaku kōi (“nuisance behavior”)—a category that includes actions like using a phone while walking. However, they can escalate to criminal offenses such as assault. Some victims emphasize the importance of reporting these incidents immediately, as many butsukari are repeat offenders. Taking a photo of the attacker, if possible, is also recommended.

The Japan Times report highlights that other vulnerable groups also face challenges in Japan’s train stations and subways. People in wheelchairs, for example, often encounter line-cutting, especially at elevators.

Helpful phrases in these situations include norimasu (“getting on”) or orimasu (“getting off”). If you see someone struggling, phrases like tōshite agete kudasai (“Please let them pass”) or doite agete kudasai (“Please step aside”) can be useful.

Image | Francesco Ungaro (Unsplash)

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