Check if a tour company, bar, taxi, or guide in Japan is safe before you book.
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Street touts in Kabukicho, Roppongi, and Dotonbori lure tourists into bars with cheap drink promises. Bills arrive 5-10x higher. Some victims have drinks spiked and credit cards charged while unconscious. The U.S. Embassy has issued official warnings. Never follow touts off the street.
Fake monks giving "blessed" bracelets then demanding donations. Fake charity petitions. "Volunteer guides" who demand payment after. A well-known scammer on Tokyo trains claims to have lost his wallet. If it feels pushy, walk away.
Unlicensed "shirotaku" (white taxis) at airports charge 3-5x normal fares with no insurance. Legal taxis in Japan always have green license plates and illuminated roof signs. Use official taxi stands only.
Scalper sites sell fake tickets to Ghibli Museum, Nintendo Museum, and USJ at inflated prices. Many require ID matching the ticket name. Always buy from official sites or verified platforms like Klook.
Fake hotel listings on Booking.com with stolen photos. Illegal Airbnb rentals that ask you to "sneak in." Always check reviews, verify the property exists on Google Maps, and book through platforms with buyer protection.