Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan
1. Kanazawa Station Ticket Scams
Be wary of individuals offering discounted train tickets at the station. Legitimate deals are rare and these offers can lead to overpriced or counterfeit tickets.
- Beware of Unsolicited Offers: Reject unsolicited offers, especially if they seem too good to be true.
- Check Ticket Authenticity: Always double-check the authenticity of tickets before purchasing from unofficial sources.
- Stick to Official Ticket Offices: Purchase your tickets only from official ticket offices or authorized vendors.
2. Tourist Information Center Scams
Some information centers may give incorrect advice to steer you towards certain shops or restaurants that pay them a commission. Always cross-check information with other sources.
- Ask Multiple Sources: Don't rely on just one source for information. Ask multiple sources and compare the advice.
- Verify Information Online: Always verify information with online resources or official websites before relying solely on information given by a tourist center.
- Recognize Biased Recommendations: Be aware that some recommendations might be biased towards certain shops or restaurants.
3. Counterfeit Kurmonden Yubuke Coins
Counterfeit coins of Kurmanden Yubuke (Golden Maruzen Coin) are circulating in Kanazawa. Be cautious while making purchases and check the coins thoroughly.
- Check Coins Carefully: Take a close look at the coins before using them for transactions.
- Recognize Authentic Designs: Familiarize yourself with the design and weight of authentic Kurmanden Yubuke coins.
- Verify Coins at a Bank: If you have doubts about a coin, verify its authenticity at a local bank or post office.
4. Fish Market Overpricing Scams
Some fish market stalls in Kanazawa may overprice their products. Always compare prices before making a purchase.
- Compare Prices: Always compare the prices of similar items at different stalls.
- Negotiate Prices: Don't hesitate to negotiate prices, especially for bulk purchases or higher-priced items.
- Shop around: Take your time and shop around at different market stalls before making a purchase.
5. Unlicensed Taxi Services
Some unlicensed taxi services may overcharge or take longer routes in Kanazawa. Only use official taxi services and check for the license before entering.
- Check for a License: Make sure the taxi has an official license displayed clearly.
- Avoid Street Taxis: Try to avoid hailing street taxis and use designated taxi stands instead.
- Compare Rates with Apps: Use ride-hailing apps like Uber or taxicabs.line to compare rates and ensure a safer experience.
6. Counterfeit Sake Bottles
Counterfeit sake bottles are common in Kanazawa. Be cautious when buying sake, especially from street vendors.
- Buy from Reputable Stores: Always buy sake from reputable stores or breweries to avoid counterfeits.
- Check Sake Seals: Look for the official seals on sake bottles to ensure authenticity.
- Taste Before Buying: If possible, taste a small amount before buying an entire bottle.
7. Exchange Rate Scams at Money Changers
Some money changers in Kanazawa may offer poor exchange rates or charge hidden fees. Always compare rates before exchanging money.
- Compare Exchange Rates: Always compare the exchange rates offered by multiple money changers.
- Check for Hidden Fees: Ask about any hidden fees or commissions before exchanging your money.
- Secure Your Money: Choose a secure location to exchange your money and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
8. Fraudulent Tour Guides
Some tour guides may provide misleading information or pressure tourists to visit certain shops that pay them a commission. Always choose reputable tour companies.
- Choose Reputable Tour Companies: Always book tours through reputable and well-established tour companies.
- Check Reviews: Read reviews from previous customers before booking a tour.
- Be Wary of Pressure Tactics: Avoid guides who pressure you to visit specific shops or attractions.
9. Counterfeit Kenrokuen Gardens Entrance Tickets
Some counterfeit entrance tickets for Kenrokuen Gardens are in circulation. Purchase tickets only from authorized vendors.
- Buy Tickets from Authorized Vendors: Always buy your tickets from authorized vendors or ticket offices.
- Check Ticket Authenticity: Always double-check the authenticity of tickets before purchasing from unofficial sources.
- Avoid Ticket Resellers: Never buy tickets from resellers or street vendors.
10. Pickpocketing in Crowded Areas
Kanazawa's crowded areas like the train station and main streets are targets for pickpockets. Always keep your belongings secure.
- Keep Belongings Secure: Use a shoulder bag with a zipper or crossbody bag to keep your belongings secure.
- Avoid Distractions: Avoid distractions like maps, smartphones, or talking loudly while in crowded areas.
- Use a Secure Wallet: Use a secure wallet with RFID protection to prevent electronic pickpocketing.
11. Overpriced Souvenirs at Tourist Spots
Some souvenir shops in tourist spots may overprice their items. Always compare prices before buying.
- Compare Prices: Always compare the prices of similar items at different shops.
- Negotiate Prices: Don't hesitate to negotiate prices, especially for bulk purchases or higher-priced items.
- Shop around: Take your time and shop around at different shops before making a purchase.
12. Fraudulent Accommodation Bookings
Some accommodation bookings in Kanazawa may be fraudulent or overpriced. Always book through reputable websites or agencies.
- Book through Reputable Websites: Always book your accommodations through reputable and well-established travel websites.
- Check Reviews: Read reviews from previous customers before booking a room.
- Avoid Offers that are Too Good to be True: Be wary of accommodation offers that seem too good to be true.
13. Street Food Vendor Overpricing
Some street food vendors in Kanazawa may overprice their food. Always compare prices before making a purchase.
- Compare Prices: Always compare the prices of similar items at different stalls.
- Negotiate Prices: Don't hesitate to negotiate prices, especially for bulk purchases or higher-priced items.
- Shop around: Take your time and shop around at different stalls before making a purchase.
14. Unlicensed Massage Parlors
Some massage parlors in Kanazawa may be unlicensed or offer services that are not clearly disclosed. Only use licensed and reputable establishments.
- Check for a License: Make sure the massage parlor has an official license displayed clearly.
- Ask about Services and Prices upfront: Always ask about services and prices upfront to avoid misunderstandings.
- Research Beforehand: Research massage parlors before visiting to ensure they are reputable and licensed.
15. Fraudulent Wifi Hotspots
Some public wifi hotspots in Kanazawa may be fraudulent or compromised. Always use a VPN and avoid sensitive transactions.
- Use a VPN: Always use a VPN to secure your connection when using public wifi.
- Avoid Sensitive Transactions: Never conduct sensitive transactions like online banking on public wifi.
- Check Wifi Network Names: Be cautious when connecting to unofficial wifi networks. Always check the network name before connecting.