Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Shizuoka, Shizuoka, Japan

All Topics about Shizuoka All Cities in Japan

1. Taxi Scams in Shizuoka

Avoid overpriced or non-existent routes by taxis. Always use registered and metered taxis.

Registered Taxis: Ensure the taxi is registered with a city number plate.
Metered Taxi Rides: Insist on using a meter for fare calculation.
Avoid Isolated Stops: Stay clear of taxis that suggest isolated or roundabout routes.

Watch out for fake Japanese Yen bills in markets and crowded areas. Always check the authenticity of notes.

Check Serial Numbers: Authentic yen serial numbers have a mix of even and odd digits.
Inspect Security Threads: Look for security threads that run through the bill horizontally and vertically.
Examine Banknote Quality: Genuine yen bills have a smooth texture and high-quality printing.

Avoid being tricked into buying overpriced or fake souvenirs. Research shops and compare prices.

Research Shops: Read reviews online before visiting a shop.
Compare Prices: Check multiple shops for the same item to compare prices.
Beware of Street Vendors: Street vendors may sell overpriced or counterfeit items.

Avoid unlicensed tour guides who might lead you to scams. Always verify the guide's credentials.

Check for License: Ask for a registered guide's license number and verify it online.
Research Tour Companies: Choose reputable tour companies with good reviews.
Avoid Unsolicited Offers: Ignore offers from unlicensed guides in crowded tourist areas.

Avoid buying tickets from unauthorized sellers or fake attraction entrances.

Buy Tickets from Official Sources: Purchase tickets only at the official ticket booths.
Check Attraction's Official Website: Verify the attraction's official website for authentic information.
Avoid Suspicious Sellers: Stay away from ticket sellers who seem unprofessional or pushy.

Avoid being overcharged by restaurants that inflate prices for tourists.

Research Menus and Prices: Check online menus and prices before visiting a restaurant.
Ask for the Menu in Japanese: Request the menu in Japanese to avoid tourist pricing.
Compare Prices with Local Friends: Ask local friends about average prices for common dishes.

Protect your valuables from pickpockets in crowded tourist spots.

Secure Your Belongings: Use a travel wallet or money belt to keep valuables safe.
Stay Aware of Surroundings: Be cautious and aware of people around you in crowded areas.
Don't Flash Expensive Items: Avoid displaying expensive items like smartphones or jewelry.

Avoid leaving personal items unattended in internet cafes. Some might steal valuables.

Secure Your Laptop: Use a laptop lock or keep your computer within sight.
Don't Leave Valuables Behind: Bring only essential items and avoid leaving valuable belongings.
Choose Reputable Internet Cafes: Ask locals for recommendations or read online reviews before visiting an internet cafe.

Avoid using unsecured wifi hotspots that might steal your personal information.

Use a VPN: Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) for secure internet access.
Avoid Public WiFi for Sensitive Transactions: Avoid conducting sensitive transactions on public wifi networks.
Check the Wi-fi Network's Legitimacy: Confirm the network's legitimacy with the establishment providing it.

Avoid renting rooms from unscrupulous landlords who advertise misleading information.

Check Reviews: Read reviews from previous guests before booking a room.
Contact the Landlord: Directly contact the landlord to verify information about the accommodation.
Visit the Accommodation Beforehand: If possible, visit the accommodation before making a reservation.

Avoid scammers pretending to offer language exchange services. Some might ask for money or steal personal information.

Meet in Public Places: Meet potential language exchange partners in public places during daylight hours.
Verify their Identity: Exchange contact information and verify their identity through social media or mutual friends.
Don't Share Sensitive Information: Avoid sharing sensitive personal information during the language exchange.

Be cautious of charity collectors who might be scammers. Verify the legitimacy of charities before donating.

Research Charities: Check online for registered and legitimate charities in Shizuoka.
Ask for Identification: Ask charity collectors for proper identification to verify their legitimacy.
Donate through Official Channels: Make donations directly to the charity's official website or bank account.

Avoid hidden fees and unfavorable rental terms by choosing reliable car rental companies.

Read the Rental Agreement Carefully: Thoroughly read the rental agreement before signing it.
Compare Prices: Compare prices and services among various car rental companies.
Choose a Reliable Rental Company: Select a well-known, reputable car rental company with good reviews.

Avoid giving money to people pretending to be in need, as they might stage accidents for financial gain.

Verify the Need: Assess whether the person genuinely needs help before offering assistance.
Don't Give Money Directly: Instead, offer to buy them food or call for professional help.
Stay Away from Suspicious Scenes: Avoid areas where multiple people are pretending to need help simultaneously.

Avoid being tricked by dishonest money changers who might give you less than the agreed amount.

Choose Reputable Money Exchange Shops: Select well-known and reputable money exchange shops.
Check the Exchange Rate: Compare the exchange rate with other money changers and online rates.
Count the Changed Money: Count the changed money carefully to ensure you've received the correct amount.