Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Shinagawa-ku, Tōkyō, Japan
1. Shinagawa Station Taxi Scam
Unscrupulous taxi drivers may overcharge tourists at Shinagawa Station. Avoid by using authorized taxis and agreeing on fare beforehand.
- Authorized Taxis: Official taxis have a distinctive sign or color.
- Fare Agreement: Always agree on the fare before starting your journey.
- Avoid Peak Hours: Taxis tend to overcharge during peak travel times.
2. Shibuya Crossing Pickpocket Scam
Pickpockets often target tourists at the busy Shibuya Crossing. Keep belongings secure and be aware of surroundings.
- Secure Belongings: Zip up bags, use chest straps or keep valuables hidden.
- Awareness: Stay alert and aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
- Use a Hidden Wallet: Consider using a hidden wallet or pouch for extra security.
3. Rickshaw Scam in Hamamatsucho
Some rickshaws in Hamamatsucho may overcharge tourists. Agree on the fare before starting your journey.
- Authorized Rickshaws: Look for authorized rickshaws with licenses or identification.
- Fare Agreement: Always agree on the fare before starting your journey.
- Avoid Peak Hours: Rickshaws tend to overcharge during peak travel times.
4. Hotel Room Billing Scam
Some hotels may bill tourists excessively for services they didn't use. Check your bill daily and ask questions if necessary.
- Daily Checks: Check your hotel bill every day.
- Ask Questions: Don't hesitate to ask questions about any unfamiliar charges.
- Use Credit Card: Pay for your hotel stay with a credit card for added protection.
5. Food Allergy Misrepresentation
Some restaurants may misrepresent food ingredients leading to allergic reactions. Inform the staff about your allergies before ordering.
- Clear Communication: Use a translation app or find someone who can explain your allergy in Japanese.
- Choose Reputable Restaurants: Look for well-reviewed restaurants with good customer feedback.
- Carry an Allergy Card: Print or download an allergy card in Japanese to help communicate your needs.
6. Street Vendor Counterfeit Goods
Some street vendors may sell counterfeit goods. Buy from authorized retailers or stores with a good reputation.
- Authorized Retailers: Look for official store logos or licenses.
- Check Quality: Inspect the quality of goods before purchasing. Counterfeit items may have poor quality.
- Reputable Stores: Look for well-established stores with good customer feedback.
7. Takarazuka Train Station ATM Scam
ATMs at Takarazuka Station may have skimming devices. Use ATMs inside banks or authorized locations.
- Inside Banks: Use ATMs located inside banks or official buildings for added security.
- Cover the Keypad: Always cover the keypad when entering your PIN to prevent keylogging.
- Monitor Accounts Regularly: Regularly monitor your account transactions for any unusual activity.
8. Tokyo Tower Ticket Scalping Scam
Tourists may be sold fake or overpriced Tokyo Tower tickets. Buy tickets directly from the venue or authorized retailers.
- Buy at Venue: Purchase tickets directly at the Tokyo Tower ticket office.
- Authorized Retailers: Look for official store logos or licenses when buying tickets from retailers.
- Check Price Online: Compare prices online to ensure you're not being overcharged.
9. Asakusa Rickshaw Scam
Some rickshaws in Asakusa may overcharge tourists. Agree on the fare before starting your journey.
- Authorized Rickshaws: Look for authorized rickshaws with licenses or identification.
- Fare Agreement: Always agree on the fare before starting your journey.
- Avoid Peak Hours: Rickshaws tend to overcharge during peak travel times.
10. Akihabara Maid Café Scam
Some maid cafés in Akihabara may overcharge tourists or add hidden charges. Research prices and read reviews before visiting.
- Research Prices: Look up average prices for food and services at maid cafés.
- Read Reviews: Check customer reviews to find well-regarded maid cafés.
- Ask About Hidden Charges: Ask about any hidden charges or tips before entering a café.
11. Odaiba Ferry Scam
Some ferries to Odaiba may charge tourists excessively. Buy tickets from authorized sales locations.
- Authorized Sales Locations: Look for official ticket booths or authorized retailers.
- Check Price Online: Compare prices online to ensure you're not being overcharged.
- Avoid Peak Hours: Ferries tend to overcharge during peak travel times.
12. Ginza Shopping Scam
Some shops in Ginza may sell counterfeit goods or overcharge tourists. Buy from authorized retailers or stores with a good reputation.
- Authorized Retailers: Look for official store logos or licenses.
- Check Quality: Inspect the quality of goods before purchasing. Counterfeit items may have poor quality.
- Reputable Stores: Look for well-established stores with good customer feedback.
13. Roppongi Bar Scam
Some bars in Roppongi may overcharge tourists for drinks or add hidden charges. Research prices and read reviews before visiting.
- Research Prices: Look up average prices for drinks at bars in Roppongi.
- Read Reviews: Check customer reviews to find well-regarded bars.
- Ask About Hidden Charges: Ask about any hidden charges or tips before entering a bar.
14. Ueno Zoo Entrance Fee Scam
Tourists may be sold fake Ueno Zoo tickets or overcharged. Buy tickets directly from the venue or authorized retailers.
- Buy at Venue: Purchase tickets directly at the Ueno Zoo ticket office.
- Authorized Retailers: Look for official store logos or licenses when buying tickets from retailers.
- Check Price Online: Compare prices online to ensure you're not being overcharged.
15. Odaiba Aqua City ATM Scam
ATMs at Odaiba Aqua City may have skimming devices. Use ATMs inside banks or authorized locations.
- Inside Banks: Use ATMs located inside banks or official buildings for added security.
- Cover the Keypad: Always cover the keypad when entering your PIN to prevent keylogging.
- Monitor Accounts Regularly: Regularly monitor your account transactions for any unusual activity.