Chonaikai refers to the neighborhood associations in modern Japanese cities. Although the name varies from city to city, with some called “self-governing” associations, chonaikai seems to be the most common name. A chonaikai is principally composed of all households in a neighborhood, with sizes varying from about 10 to over 1,000 households. They perform comprehensive functions including engaging in anticrime activities, traffic safety campaigns, fire and disaster prevention, sanitation, and mutual aid, as well as promoting mutual friendships, culture, and leisure activities; transmitting information from city hall; and representing neighborhoods to local governments.