Interpretation of the Law 9: Free
Ignorance is bliss-until reality hits. I dodge a judicial bullet but only by 6 centimeters. If I was alone in Japan, I’d be in jail. If I was carrying the knife for recreational purposes, I’d be in jail. If there were no photos showing proof of my work, I’d be in jail. All these thoughts flood my mind as I ride a taxi back to the office.
Interpretation of the Law 8: Social Media
The mood shifts with the arrival of her superiors. My friend’s blue scarf-now wrapped around the infamous multitool-is placed on the table as the sergeant recites the strict rules about knives. As I sign forms and give my fingerprints, I find myself cornered into signing a document stating I gave them permission to search me. Just when I think it’s over, they start asking about my social media presence.
Interpretation of the Law 4: Interrogation
The interrogator begins with questions I’ve already answered, pressing for specific details about why I carry a multitool and how I used it that day. With my limited Japanese, I rely on a young cadet to translate, aware that any inconsistency could deepen their suspicion. Sensing the adversarial tone, I try to shift the dynamic, steering the conversation toward something less hostile and more human-even a touch romantic.
Interpretation of the Law 2: Arrested without Handcuffs
Detectives comb through my belongings, treating my multitool as if it were a deadly weapon. Thanks to modern technology, I manage to contact a trusted colleague, who urges me to cooperate fully and insists I confirm my destination before I lose all contact with the outside world.
Interpretation of the Law 1: Not Just Another Friday Night
On my way to a Friday night bachata lesson, what should have been a simple walk turned into a police ambush. Suddenly, I found myself defending my freedom over carrying a multitool with a knife that exceeded Japan’s strict 6-centimeter legal limit-a law that forbids carrying such tools outside of work, and one that carries serious consequences if violated.