Why Is It the Law to Praise Children? (Japan’s Most Wholesome Ordinance)

Last updated: March 20, 2026

Weird Local Laws
Many cities around the world have bizarre, outdated laws. But in Japan, there is a local ordinance (a city law) that is so wholesome it will melt your heart. It is called the “Ko-home Jourei” (Child Praising Ordinance).

The Shibushi City Rule
This unique law was enacted in Shibushi City, located in the southern prefecture of Kagoshima. In this town, the local government officially mandated that adults must actively find good things about children and praise them!

What Does the Law Say?
The ordinance states that “Children are the treasure of the community.” It encourages parents, teachers, and neighbors to focus on a child’s efforts and small achievements, rather than just scolding them for their mistakes. The goal is to build the children’s self-esteem and confidence.

The Village Mindset
In modern times, people are often too shy or busy to interact with other people’s kids. This ordinance is a beautiful reminder of the old Japanese proverb: “It takes a village to raise a child.” It encourages adults to say, “Good morning!” or “You did a great job today!” to any kid they see.

No Police Arrests!
Don’t worry, the police won’t arrest you if you forget to praise a child! It is a symbolic law meant to create a warm, supportive environment. Imagine if every city in the world had a “Praising Law”—the world would definitely be a happier place!

Unique Japanese Childhoods (Related Articles)
While adults in Shibushi City are busy praising kids to build their confidence, what are the kids busy doing? Growing up in Japan comes with some very unique childhood memories and traditions!

1. The Luxury Bug Pets While adults praise them, kids are busy building their own summer memories by collecting giant bugs! In Japan, big, shiny rhinoceros beetles are the ultimate summer obsession, and kids even buy them as luxury pets at high-end department stores.
👉 Why do they buy bugs? Check out: “Why Do Japanese Kids Buy Bugs at Department Stores? (The Beetle Obsession)”

Why Do Japanese Kids Buy Bugs at Department Stores? (The Beetle Obsession)

2. The Ultimate School Memory As children grow older, they experience the most anticipated event of a Japanese student’s life: a multi-day group trip called “Shugaku-Ryoko”. It is an educational exercise in group harmony where they explore historic cities, but the true fun happens when they rebel against the strict 10:00 PM “lights out” rule!
👉 Where do they travel? Check out: “Why Do Japanese Students Travel Together Before Graduating? (The ‘Shugaku-Ryoko’ Tradition)”