From Criminal to Savior: The Remarkable Journey of Japan's Rare Woman Yakuza Member

Oct 22, 2025 12:39 pm CST

Mako Nishimura, one of Japan's few female yakuza members, has transformed her life from organized crime to helping fellow ex-gangsters reintegrate into society. After three decades in the male-dominated criminal underworld, this 58-year-old now leads rehabilitation efforts through the Gojinkai non-profit organization while working demolition jobs that accept her full-body tattoos. Her story highlights both the decline of Japan's yakuza networks and the challenging path to redemption for those seeking escape from criminal life.