Japan’s 8 Biggest Tourist Scams and How to Avoid Them

In this video, we reveal Japan's biggest tourist scams that you need to be aware of in 2024. We expose the tactics used by scammers to take advantage of unsuspecting visitors. Watch till the end to learn how to protect yourself and make the most of your trip to Japan. Don't let these scams ruin your travel experience! Stay informed and stay safe with our comprehensive guide to navigating the tourist traps in Japan!

☑️ Packing List for JAPAN

☑️ Tourist Major Mistakes in TOKYO

■About me
Hi, I’m Nao. I was born in Yokohama and grew up in a Buddhism temple in the countryside of Hyogo prefecture. Life in urban and rural areas and unique experiences in a temple can bring other perspectives on Japanese things.

I love sharing Japanese things with you, so please always tell and ask me what kind of videos you want to see in the comments.

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[JapanwithNao]

Thank you for watching! Please let me know any scams or story you have heard in Japan Σ('◉⌓◉’)

[kristencutlack]

We were scammed in Kyoto in 2023. Standing outside of a very traditional Takoyaki restaurant, we were considering entering when a friendly english speaking japanese woman and her male friend recommended eating there and offered to help us order the best specialtys on the menu. They were very helpful - as we cannot read or speak japanese and they did all the ordering and yes it was delicious including some lovely warm Sake. As the evening progressed, the friend had to leave and catch a train and after the meal was over the woman also had to dash off leaving us to pay the bill for their meals. We felt very stupid but luckily it wasnt an expensive restaurant (compared to dining out in Australia) and we have a 'scam' story to tell about our stay in Kyoto.

[msgeen]

This channel is underrated. I learn so much helpful information and tips from this channel. Thank you, Nao.

[Derp-Kun]

imagine someone using your phone to take a picture of yourself only to ask for a fee for the "service" lmao

[mx]

9. Don't go to Japan in August - you'll get scammed out of a good experience by the weather. The humid heat is no joke.

[geekyprojects]

JR Pass rule of thumb:
- If you go from Tokyo to Kyushu at least once, JR Pass is OK.
- If you travel for three weeks - JR Pass is OK.
- If you travel for one week and move between Tokyo and Kyoto - Hokuriku Arch Pass is OK.
- If you land in Osaka and don't go to Tokyo, Kyushu, etc. - Kansai Area Pass is OK.
- If you land in Tokyo and stay in Tokyo or in the Alps - pay as you go.

[shawnbell]

Good video and a good list to be aware of. For those of us from the west visiting Japan, let's also be good guests and speak up if other westerners are not. Japan and Japanese people deserve our best.

[UnbrokenCheese]

I was scammed by a "monk" in Akihabara. My tour guide saw it but it was too late, I had already given some money. But the tour guide still did give the "monk" a tongue lashing.

[rouge]

Very good. Thanks for sharing and the awareness.

[tedchen]

Great content! Will go to Tokyo and Kyoto in Oct. and Nov. this year and it's helpful! Thanks for sharing! 👍

[joooeeeeeeeeeey]

appreciate this video so much. thank you!

[dennischen]

There are fake monks in other parts of Asia as well like Taiwan. I have seen these monks here get into their luxury cars after a day of begging. And you are right about the bars and certain izakayas in Japan. They don't tend of have itemized receipts, so they are free to change/modify prices, or charge you hidden costs without you knowing. Unfortunately, many foreigners fall for this since they can't read Japanese and are too drunk to care. I called out several izakayas like these who tried to ripoff my girlfriend and I when I lived there in Japan. They immediately refunded me the difference and apologize and went on to scam the next person.

[studio]

Thanks for making this video to create more awareness. Before watching this, I have an impression that Japan is very safe. With the weakening of their currency, we never know what people will do to make a living. Aways be alert is key. Continue your good works.

[louejohn]

Thanks for this information. Will be travelling to Japan tomorrow. 😊

[TokyoToyHunters]

My first trip to Tokyo is coming up soon. I’ll definitely keep my eyes open for these scams. Cheers

[cupidstunt]

Thanks for the advice. Currently travelling around Japan now and am blown away how friendly and honest everyone has been. Hope it stays that way but based on your list of scams and my own experiences, this is one of the safest places you can travel.

[RedOneM]

Legitimate businesses will show prices upfront. No price, no deal! Don't follow touts offering cheap drinking opportunities. You will find actually cheap drinks in most bars and some people there won't mind chatting, be respectful and gauge the situation.
To avoid being scammed, cash is king, leave your credit card in hotel. If it's not possible, use a low limit CC (if you don't have one, withdraw enough onto your bank so the limit remains low). You always have the option to snap the card in your hands too, don't forget that. Never, ever hand over you passport.

[jonathansciacca]

Thank you so much . I’m coming in Jan 25 for the first time! Can’t wait to see your Beautiful Country.

[Roget]

Biggest scam in Tokyo is in restaurants where the food photographed does not match the food paid for - in size or quality.

[TheMediterraneanStar]

Thank you for the great tips 👍

It's... heartwarming 😂 to know that the same scams get perpetrated both in Japan and in my home country 😂🤣😂 as my granny would say: "the whole world is the same village"

Thank you again, I'll keep an eye out for scammers 😉