The Tokyo Metropolitan Police has announced the merger of the Harajuku and Yoyogi police stations, marking the first such consolidation in over 70 years. This decision is aimed at reducing personnel in administrative roles while increasing the number of police officers deployed in the community. The merger will reduce the number of police stations in Tokyo from 102 to 101 and is expected to officially launch around 2034. The new station's name is likely to be determined by a resident survey, with the possibility of incorporating both Harajuku and Yoyogi names.

The Harajuku police station was built in 2009, while the Yoyogi station, constructed in 1973, is facing significant structural issues, including cracks in its pillars and inaccessible emergency staircases. With rising local populations, the number of police officers has increased, but the current Yoyogi station cannot accommodate necessary disaster response equipment. Efforts since 2012 to find a suitable alternative site for the Yoyogi station have been unsuccessful, primarily due to a competitive real estate market where larger private enterprises have been acquiring potential properties.

By merging the police stations, the Tokyo Police aims not only to reduce administrative staff but also to streamline command over security for major public events in areas like Meiji Shrine and Yoyogi Park. This consolidation intends to enhance overall public safety in a thriving community, ensuring police presence aligns with the growing urban demographics and the need for robust emergency preparedness.