Japan Suicide Cliff

Japan's "suicide cliff" is located on the northern side of the island of Saipan. The proper name for the area is the Toshimbo Cliffs.

The term suicide cliff comes from a mass suicide event dating back to World War II. In addition, many Japanese commit suicide at the same location each year.

1. AKA: Toshimbo Cliffs
2. 820 feet above sea level
3. Cliffs face the sunset
4. Emergency phone booths are nearby
5. Warning signs are posted
6. 25 suicides at the cliffs each year
7. Former police officer Yukio Shiga patrols area daily
8. Shiga has saved 129 from attempted suicide
9. One suicide in Japan every 15 minutes
10. Suicide rate same as U.S., but less population
11. Japanese suicides spike during recession
12. Mental illness carries a stigma in JapanAOL Video: Japan's Suicide Cliffs

During WWII a group of civilians committed suicide from the cliffs, rather than face life as a POW. Families participated in the ritual together, from the youngest to the oldest. Today the site is still where many Japanese go to commit their final act.