Japan faces a worsening child abuse crisis, with cases hitting record highs. In response, a brave survivor is creating a safe haven for abused girls. Kogetsu Otagaki, 24, endured years of abuse before escaping. Now, she’s determined to offer real support to victims.
Recent government data reveals shocking numbers. In 2024, police recorded 2,649 child abuse cases, including 52 deaths. Additionally, child welfare centers handled over 225,500 reports in fiscal 2023. Psychological abuse topped the list, followed by physical violence and neglect.
Experts blame rising stress and isolation among parents. Many feel trapped, with no one to turn to for help. Meanwhile, increased awareness and hotlines have led to more reports. Despite this, victims often struggle to find proper care.
Otagaki’s childhood was filled with terror. Her drunk father hurled insults and shoved her into a trash bin. Later, he kept her awake at night, screaming cruel words. Her mother, once seen as kind, eventually threatened her with a knife.
At 15, she entered a welfare facility briefly. However, returning home only made things worse. By 18, fearing for her life, she called a helpline. A private shelter took her in, but its strict rules left her feeling trapped.
Although the shelter provided safety, it failed in other ways. Residents couldn’t use phones or the internet. They also struggled to find proper schooling or jobs. Otagaki worked as a caretaker and farmhand but faced bullying. Frustrated, she realized shelters must do more. They shouldn’t just protect victims—they must prepare them for life. This insight inspired her to create a safe haven for abused girls.
In August 2024, Otagaki founded Child Oasis Kogetsu Villa, a nonprofit in Chiba. Her goal? To open a shelter by next spring for girls aged 15 to 20. Unlike traditional facilities, hers will focus on education, employment, and emotional healing.
Funding will come from both the government and Chiba City. Local officials praise her vision, noting how rare it is for survivors to lead such efforts. Otagaki hopes her shelter becomes a true safe haven for abused girls.
Today, Otagaki has cut ties with her abusive father. She even changed her name, choosing “Kogetsu,” meaning “bright moon.” The night she called for help, the moon’s glow gave her hope. Now, she vows to shine that same light on other victims.
“Half-hearted help only causes more pain,” she says. With her shelter, she aims to provide the deep, lasting support she once needed. For Japan’s abused children, this safe haven for abused girls could be a lifeline.
