JapanWhat is the DV Counseling and Support Center?
The DV Counseling and Support Center is a government-established facility in Japan that provides free, confidential consultation, temporary protection, and support services to victims of domestic violence.
What the Law Says
The DV Counseling and Support Center is established and governed under Japan’s Act on Prevention of Spousal Violence and Protection of Victims.
These centers are set up by prefectural governments to provide integrated support for victims of domestic violence. Services include face-to-face and telephone counseling, emergency temporary shelter, assistance with legal procedures (e.g., protection orders), and referrals to medical, welfare, and employment services.
Staff must include qualified professionals such as social workers, psychologists, and lawyers. Centers operate 24 hours a day, including holidays, and all services are provided free of charge.
Victims may stay in emergency shelters operated by the centers for up to 30 days, with possible extensions based on individual circumstances.
Statutory TextPrefectural governors shall establish DV Counseling and Support Centers to provide consultation, protection, and support to victims of spousal violence.
— Act on Prevention of Spousal Violence and Protection of Victims, s. 12 — Establishment of DV Counseling and Support Centers
Statutory TextThe Center shall provide consultation services 24 hours a day, including weekends and holidays, and shall offer temporary protection when necessary.
— Act on Prevention of Spousal Violence and Protection of Victims, s. 13 — Duties of the Center
Statutory TextServices provided by the Center shall be free of charge.
— Act on Prevention of Spousal Violence and Protection of Victims, s. 14 — Fees
What to Do
Call the national DV hotline at #8891 (free, 24/7, multilingual support available)
Visit or contact your local DV Counseling and Support Center (find via prefectural website or Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare)
Request immediate consultation and, if needed, emergency shelter placement
Ask for assistance filing for a protection order under the Spousal Violence Prevention Act
Sources
Not legal advice. This article is general information based on publicly available sources, written for educational purposes. Laws change and individual situations vary. Consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction before acting on anything you read here. Last reviewed: 2026-06-08.