Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Ichikawa, Chiba, Japan

All Topics about Ichikawa All Cities in Japan

1. Taxi Overcharging Scam

Watch for excessive charges in taxis that claim they don't have change. Always confirm the fare before starting your journey.

Prepaid Taxis: Opt for prepaid taxis at stations to avoid overcharging.
Avoid Night Travel: Avoid traveling by taxi during late nights to reduce the risk of scams.
Know Fare Estimates: Familiarize yourself with average taxi fares in Ichikawa for a hassle-free journey.

Beware of street vendors selling counterfeit goods, especially electronic devices. Only buy from reputable stores or official brand outlets.

Legitimate Shopping Malls: Visit legitimate shopping malls for a safe and genuine shopping experience.
Check Brand Authenticity: Check for authentic brand markings and packaging before purchasing any item.
Street Vendor Warning Signs: Be cautious of vendors displaying 'Warung' or 'Toko' signs, which may indicate a possible scam.

Some souvenir shops may overprice their items. Compare prices at multiple shops before purchasing.

Local Craft Shops: Visit local craft shops for authentic and competitively priced souvenirs.
Ask Locals for Recommendations: Ask locals about their favorite souvenir shops for genuine recommendations.
Price Comparison Apps: Use price comparison apps to verify if the price is reasonable before buying.

Some tour guides may sell fake attraction tickets. Purchase tickets directly from official ticket counters.

Official Websites: Book your tickets through the official attraction websites to avoid scams.
Ask for Offical Ticket Counters: Ask locals or staff members at accommodations for official ticket counters.
Verify Tickets: Check the tickets for authenticity and validate them before entering the attraction.

Some coin-operated phones may have fake coins inside. Use a prepaid SIM card for safer communication.

Prepaid SIM Cards: Buy a prepaid SIM card to communicate easily and avoid scams.
Internet Access Points: Use internet access points at accommodations or public areas for communication.
Coin-Operated Telephone Warnings: Be cautious of coins that seem too large, as they may be fake.

Be aware of pickpockets in crowded places like markets and train stations. Keep your belongings secure.

Secure Bags: Use bags with zippers and avoid carrying large, easily accessible bags.
Travel Wallets: Use travel wallets that can be worn under clothing to secure your valuables.
Avoid Distractions: Stay alert and avoid distractions from strangers, especially in crowded areas.

Be careful when using ATMs as they may be skimmers. Only use ATMs located at banks or reputable locations.

Bank ATMs: Use bank ATMs with security cameras and 24-hour staff presence.
Cover the Keypad: Cover the keypad when entering your PIN to prevent shoulder surfing.
Check ATM for Tampering: Inspect the ATM for any unusual objects before using it.

Avoid using unsecured public Wi-Fi networks as they may be fraudulent. Use a VPN to secure your connection.

VPN for Secure Connection: Use a VPN service to secure your online activities.
Secured Wi-Fi Networks: Look for secured networks that require a password before connecting.
Avoid Sensitive Transactions: Avoid sensitive transactions like online banking on unsecured Wi-Fi networks.

Be cautious of tour guides who offer services without a license. Ask for proof of their guide's license before engaging in tours.

Licensed Tour Guides: Engage with licensed tour guides who follow local regulations and standards.
Ask for Recommendations: Ask locals or accommodations for recommendations on licensed tour guides.
Check Guide's ID: Always check the guide's identification card before starting a tour.

Some street food vendors may sell undercooked or contaminated food. Only consume food from reputable street food stalls.

Health Certified Stalls: Choose health certified street food stalls for a safe dining experience.
Busy Stalls: Choose busy stalls with long lines, as they indicate popular and likely reputable vendors.
Fresh Ingredients: Look for vendors using fresh ingredients to ensure food safety.

Avoid buying guidebooks from street vendors as they may be counterfeit. Purchase books from reputable bookstores or online retailers.

Reputable Bookstores: Visit reputable bookstores for genuine guidebooks.
Check for Watermarks: Look for watermarks and holograms on the cover to verify authenticity.
Online Retailers: Purchase guidebooks from online retailers like Amazon or Kinokuniya.

Some exchange bureaus may provide poor exchange rates. Use reputable exchange services or banks.

Reputable Exchange Services: Find reputable exchange services with good reviews and recommendations.
Competitive Rates: Compare exchange rates at multiple locations before finalizing your transaction.
Secure Transactions: Ensure secure transactions by counting the exchanged money in front of the clerk.

Be cautious when purchasing train tickets from unofficial vendors. Only buy tickets from authorized ticket offices.

Authorized Ticket Offices: Purchase tickets at authorized ticket offices with clear signage.
Check Train Schedule: Verify the train schedule on official websites before purchasing tickets.
Avoid Late Night Travel: Avoid traveling by train during late nights to reduce the risk of scams.

Some fish pedicure salons may use contaminated water. Choose reputable salons for a safe experience.

Reputable Salons: Choose reputable salons with good reviews and recommendations.
Clean Salon Environment: Check for a clean environment, including well-maintained equipment.
Check for Licenses: Ensure the salon has a valid health and beauty license.

Avoid unlicensed massage parlors as they may offer illegal services. Visit licensed parlors for a safe and enjoyable experience.

Licensed Massage Parlors: Visit licensed massage parlors that follow local regulations.
Check for Licenses: Ensure the parlor has a valid health and beauty license.
Ask for Recommendations: Ask locals or accommodations for recommendations on licensed massage parlors.