Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Hiroshima, Japan
1. Taxis in Hiroshima
Be cautious of unofficial taxis, especially late at night or from unfamiliar areas. Always use registered taxis and agree on the fare before starting your journey.
- Registered Taxis: Only licensed taxis with a taxi sign are safe to use.
- Fare Agreement: Always agree on the fare before starting your journey.
- Safety in Numbers: Avoid solitary taxis, especially late at night.
2. Peace Memorial Park Scams
Beware of street vendors selling fake souvenirs and overpriced items in the Peace Memorial Park. Stick to official shops for genuine items.
- Official Shops: Only buy souvenirs from authorized shops.
- Overpriced Items: Be aware of inflated prices by unauthorized vendors.
- Peaceful Moment: Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere without distractions.
3. Restaurant Scams
Some restaurants in Hiroshima may serve substandard food or inflate prices. Stick to popular, well-reviewed establishments.
- Popular Restaurants: Choose popular and well-rated restaurants.
- Well-Reviewed Establishments: Look for positive reviews before dining out.
- Culinary Experience: Enjoy an authentic and delicious meal.
4. Accommodation Scams
Be wary of unofficial accommodations or overpriced deals on online platforms. Stick to reputable hotels and booking sites.
- Reputable Hotels: Choose well-known hotels for your stay.
- Booking Sites: Use reliable online booking platforms.
- Reasonable Prices: Compare prices to avoid overpaying.
5. ATM Scams
Unsecured ATMs may skim your card or collect your PIN. Use only bank ATMs in secure locations.
- Bank ATMs: Use ATMs located inside banks for safety.
- Secure Locations: Choose well-lit, busy areas for your transactions.
- Card Safety: Cover the keypad while entering your PIN for added security.
6. Public Wi-Fi Scams
Public Wi-Fi networks can be insecure. Avoid accessing sensitive information or making online transactions on unsecured networks.
- Secure Networks: Use password-protected Wi-Fi networks.
- Sensitive Information: Avoid accessing sensitive information on public Wi-Fis.
- Online Transactions: Postpone online transactions until you have a secure connection.
7. Street Performers Scams
Some street performers may use distractions to pickpocket. Keep your belongings safe and be alert while enjoying performances.
- Belongings Safety: Keep your valuables close and out of sight.
- Alertness: Stay aware of your surroundings during performances.
- Enjoyment: Appreciate the performance without distractions.
8. Tour Guides Scams
Some unlicensed tour guides may offer subpar services or overcharge. Use registered and recommended tour guides.
- Registered Tour Guides: Choose licensed and certified tour guides.
- Recommended Guides: Use guides recommended by reputable sources.
- Quality Experience: Enjoy an informative and enjoyable tour.
9. Local Festival Scams
Some local festivals may have ticket scammers or overpriced food stalls. Research the event and stick to official festival areas.
- Official Event Areas: Stay within designated festival zones.
- Ticket Sources: Purchase tickets from authorized vendors only.
- Festival Experience: Enjoy the traditional culture and food without scams.
10. Bicycle Rental Scams
Unauthorized bike rental stations may offer damaged bikes or overcharge. Use only registered and well-maintained rental stations.
- Registered Stations: Choose official, licensed bike rental stations.
- Well-Maintained Bikes: Ensure the bikes are in good working condition before renting.
- Affordable Prices: Compare prices to avoid overpaying.
11. Arcade Scams
Some arcades may have rigged games or use dishonest tactics. Stick to reputable, well-managed arcades.
- Reputable Arcades: Choose popular and well-reviewed arcades.
- Honest Games: Avoid games with suspicious prizes or rules.
- Fun Experience: Enjoy gaming without scams.
12. Street Food Scams
Some street food vendors may serve substandard or contaminated food. Stick to popular, well-reviewed establishments.
- Popular Vendors: Choose vendors with many positive reviews.
- Well-Reviewed Establishments: Look for street food stalls with high ratings.
- Safe Food: Enjoy delicious and safe street food.
13. Online Shopping Scams
Some online shops in Hiroshima may sell counterfeit or low-quality items. Stick to reputable, verified online stores.
- Reputable Online Shops: Shop on well-known and reliable online platforms.
- Verified Sellers: Look for sellers with verified profiles and positive feedback.
- Quality Items: Enjoy high-quality, authentic products.
14. Bus and Train Ticket Scams
Counterfeit or overpriced bus and train tickets can be an issue. Stick to official ticket booths and stations.
- Official Booths: Buy tickets from authorized booths.
- Ticket Stations: Purchase tickets at designated stations only.
- Affordable Prices: Compare prices to avoid overpaying.
15. Friendly Locals Scams
Some friendly locals may attempt to guide or help you with a scam in mind. Be cautious and verify information from multiple sources.
- Multiple Sources: Verify information from multiple sources before acting.
- Verified Information: Ensure the information is accurate and trustworthy.
- Safe Interactions: Engage in friendly interactions without compromising safety.