However I do think it’s fair to point out the existence of women-only train cars in Japan, which I believe exist at least in part due to groping. Seems like YMMV depending on gender.
I felt so incredibly safe in Japan and I don't remember even seeing a cop. As an American, that felt crazy to me for how large those cities are. I had some expectation of that but it still surprised me, particularly in the touristy nightlife districts with the street drinking.
Obviously seems like there might be some downsides to the culture that leads to this.
You probably didn't realize what to look for. There are quite a lot of kobans (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/K%C5%8Dban), especially in busy locations. Seeing police patrolling around the area is rare sight from my experience though (disclaimer: Experience strictly as tourist).