Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Matsuyama, Ehime, Japan
1. Taxi Scams
Watch out for drivers who claim a busy or closed street. Always use authorized taxi services from the station or airport.
- Unfamiliarity with area: Foreign tourists may unknowingly choose illegitimate taxis.
- Language barrier: Communication difficulties can lead to misunderstandings or manipulation.
- Overcharging: Drivers may exploit tourists by overestimating the fare.
2. Counterfeit Money
Be vigilant when receiving change or making transactions. Familiarize yourself with genuine Japanese currency.
- Poor quality imitations: Counterfeit bills often have minor imperfections.
- Visual similarities: It's easy to confuse smaller denominations due to their visual resemblance.
- Lack of security features: Counterfeit bills may lack the necessary security measures.
3. Tourist Spots Overcharging
Ensure you pay a fair price for goods and services at popular tourist attractions. Research prices beforehand or ask locals.
- Price markups: Souvenirs, food, and services are often priced higher at tourist spots.
- Lack of competition: Few options may lead to limited price negotiation opportunities.
- Foreigner pricing: Some vendors may charge tourists higher prices based on their appearance.
4. Fraudulent Wi-Fi Hotspots
Avoid connecting to unsecured public Wi-Fi networks, as they may be used for data theft. Opt for secure, password-protected connections instead.
- Data harvesting: Unsecured Wi-Fi networks can expose sensitive information.
- Malware distribution: Infected networks may download harmful software onto your device.
- Identity theft: Accessing sensitive accounts can lead to identity theft and financial losses.
5. Street Food Scams
Beware of food being tampered with or contaminated. Only purchase from reputable street food vendors and ensure food is properly prepared and packaged.
- Contamination: Food may be tampered with to make tourists sick.
- Inadequate hygiene: Unsanitary conditions can lead to foodborne illnesses.
- Misrepresentation: Food may not be what it appears to be, such as contaminated or undercooked ingredients.
6. Unlicensed Guides
Always verify your tour guide is licensed by the National Guide Tour Association of Japan. Licensed guides have proper certifications and insurance.
- Lack of knowledge: Unlicensed guides may lack the necessary information about Matsuyama's history, culture, and attractions.
- Safety concerns: Unlicensed guides may lead tourists to unsafe or restricted areas.
- Legal issues: Engaging an unlicensed guide can result in legal consequences for both the tourist and guide.
7. ATM Skimming
Be cautious when using ATMs, especially those located in less crowded areas. Always cover the keypad while entering your PIN and be aware of any suspicious devices attached to the machine.
- Skimming devices: Criminals may use small cameras or card readers to steal your data.
- Card trapping: Thieves might use fake keypads to capture your PIN as you enter it.
- Data theft: Skimming allows thieves to access your bank account and steal your money.
8. Fake Friend Scams
Be wary of overly friendly locals who offer help or friendship. They may be attempting to lure you into a scam, such as pickpocketing or leading you to fraudulent stores.
- Manipulation: Friends might exploit your kindness and trust.
- Dishonest intentions: Overly friendly locals may have ulterior motives.
- Fraudulent stores: Friends might lead you to shops where they receive commission for bringing customers.
9. Fake Charity Scams
Be cautious when approached by people collecting for charity. Verify the legitimacy of the charity and its intentions before donating.
- Fraudulent charities: Some charities may not use donations as intended.
- Pressure tactics: Scammers might use aggressive or emotional appeals to collect money.
- Information discrepancies: Legitimate charities will be able to provide detailed information about their mission and operations.
10. Pickpocketing
Keep your belongings secure at all times, especially in crowded areas. Use anti-theft bags or backpacks and avoid displaying valuable items.
- Crowded areas: Pickpockets often target tourists in busy tourist spots.
- Distractions: Scammers might use various distraction techniques to steal from unsuspecting victims.
- Valuable items: Expensive electronics, jewelry, and cash are prime targets for pickpockets.
11. Rental Car Scams
Thoroughly inspect the rental car before driving away to avoid any hidden damages. Be aware of overpriced or unregistered rental companies.
- Undisclosed damages: Rental companies may try to charge you for pre-existing damages.
- Overpriced rentals: Some rental agencies may charge excessively high prices.
- Unregistered companies: Using unlicensed or unregistered rental services can lead to legal and safety issues.
12. Hotel Room Scams
Always book hotels through trusted websites or agencies. Inspect the room for any suspicious devices before unpacking.
- Overpriced rooms: Some hotels may charge excessive prices for subpar accommodations.
- Insecure room conditions: Rooms with tampered locks or hidden cameras pose security risks.
- Fraudulent hotels: Booking through untrusted sources may lead to staying at unregistered or unsafe accommodations.
13. Accommodation Scams
Always book accommodations through reputable websites or agencies. Inspect the property for any unusual features before accepting it.
- Unsafe conditions: Accommodations with fire hazards, electrical issues, or structural damage pose safety risks.
- Fraudulent properties: Booking through untrusted sources may lead to staying at unregistered or unsafe accommodations.
- Unauthorized fees: Landlords might charge hidden fees or excessive prices for subpar accommodations.
14. Bogus Online Listings
Research the property and landlord thoroughly before booking. Be cautious of any properties with few or no reviews.
- Property discrepancies: Listings may misrepresent the actual condition of the property.
- Fraudulent landlords: Landlords might use fake identities or steal deposits.
- Unsafe conditions: Properties with hidden hazards pose safety risks to tenants.
15. Overpriced Accommodations
Research the average prices for accommodations in Matsuyama before booking. Be wary of properties offering significantly lower or higher prices than their competitors.
- Misleading pricing: Some listings may use deceptive pricing strategies to attract tourists.
- Quality vs. cost: High-priced accommodations might not offer better quality or amenities compared to lower-cost options.
- Hidden fees: Landlords may charge additional fees, such as cleaning or deposit costs, to inflate the total price.