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

All Topics about Kashiwa All Cities in Japan

1. Kashiwa Taxi Scam

Avoid overpriced or non-existent taxi services in Kashiwa by only using licensed taxis and checking the fare before starting your journey.

Recognize Licensed Taxis: Licensed taxis have a distinctive emblem on their vehicle
Verify Fare Quote: Ask for a fare estimate before entering the taxi to avoid surprises
Use Reputable Companies: Choose well-known taxi companies like Nihon Kotsu or Tokyo MK Taxi

Avoid ATMs that do not look genuine or have unusual features. Always cover your PIN and check your account regularly for suspicious activity.

Check ATM Security Features: Look for a secure cover over the keypad to protect it from cameras
Use Well-lit Areas: Choose ATMs located in well-lit, busy areas to minimize risk
Monitor Account Activity: Regularly check your account balance and transactions online or using a mobile app

Inspect banknotes carefully for signs of counterfeit bills. Know the correct size and feel of authentic Japanese currency.

Check Size and Feel: Authentic notes have a specific size and texture
Examine Serial Numbers: Look for serial numbers with a consistent pattern and no repeating digits
Use Reliable Change Machines: Change large bills in banks or reliable change machines

Protect your credit card details by using chip-and-pin transactions and notifying your bank of any suspicious activity.

Use Chip-and-PIN Transactions: Choose merchants that use the EMV chip-and-PIN system
Secure Card Handling: Never let your card out of sight when making a payment
Monitor Account Activity: Regularly check your account balance and transactions online or using a mobile app

Keep personal belongings secure, especially in crowded areas like Kashiwa Station and shopping districts.

Secure Bags and Pockets: Zip up bags and use a crossbody bag with a secure clasp
Be Aware of Surroundings: Stay alert to your surroundings, especially in crowded places
Use a Money Belt: Consider using a money belt for storing important documents and cash

Avoid using public Wi-Fi networks to access sensitive information. Use a VPN or mobile hotspot when necessary.

Use a VPN: Install a VPN on your device for secure internet access
Avoid Sensitive Transactions: Do not perform banking or shopping transactions on public Wi-Fi networks
Use Mobile Hotspot: Use your mobile data or a personal hotspot when necessary

Research and book tours through reputable agencies. Always read reviews and check for licenses before making a booking.

Check Reviews: Read online reviews from past customers to ensure quality service
Verify Licenses: Ask for the agency's license number and verify it online
Use Secure Payment Methods: Choose secure payment methods like credit cards or PayPal

Ignore unsolicited phone calls and text messages asking for personal information. Hang up or delete them immediately.

Do Not Provide Information: Never share personal information over the phone or via text messages
Block Unwanted Calls: Use call blocking features on your phone to prevent scam calls from reaching you
Report Scams: Report suspicious calls or text messages to local authorities or service providers

Be cautious when someone finds and offers to return a valuable item. Always verify the item's legitimacy before accepting assistance.

Verify Ownership: Ask for identification or proof of ownership
Report Lost Items: Report lost items to local police or lost-and-found services
Be Wary of Offers: Do not accept help from strangers unless you are certain the item is legitimately theirs

Only eat street food from reliable vendors with a clean workspace and proper food handling practices.

Check for a Clean Workspace: Look for a clean, organized workspace with handwashing facilities
Inspect Food Quality: Choose vendors with fresh ingredients and properly cooked food
Avoid Unattended Food Stalls: Stay away from unattended food stalls or carts

Purchase tickets only from authorized vendors. Compare ticket details with official websites before making a purchase.

Verify Ticket Details: Compare ticket details with the official website of the attraction or event
Use Authorized Vendors: Buy tickets from authorized vendors, such as official box offices or online ticketing sites
Check for Holograms: Authentic tickets have a holographic security feature

Be cautious when donating to charities or street performers. Research the organization before giving any money.

Purchase souvenirs from licensed shops or stalls. Be wary of suspiciously low prices for popular items.

Check for Licenses: Look for a shop license or vendor permit
Avoid Suspiciously Low Prices: Be aware of prices that are much lower than the market rate
Check Quality: Examine souvenirs for poor craftsmanship or inconsistent materials

Book accommodation through reputable sites or agencies. Research the property and read reviews before making a reservation.

Check Reviews: Read online reviews from past guests to ensure quality service
Verify Licenses: Ask for the property's license number and verify it online
Use Secure Payment Methods: Choose secure payment methods like credit cards or PayPal

Negotiate prices for goods and services before agreeing to purchase. Be wary of inflated prices in tourist areas.

Negotiate Prices: Ask for a lower price or negotiate the cost of goods and services
Avoid Tourist Areas: Shop in local markets or neighborhoods instead of tourist areas
Compare Prices: Compare prices with other shops to ensure a fair deal