Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Kawaguchi, Saitama, Japan
1. Kawaguchi Train Station Scam
A common scam is tourists being approached for assistance, then led away from the station and pickpocketed. Stay alert near the station.
- Unsolicited Assistance: Be wary of strangers offering help.
- Station Distraction: Avoid distractions near the station.
- Pickpocketing: Keep your belongings secure at all times.
2. Taxis Overcharging
Taxis in Kawaguchi may overcharge tourists. Use authorized taxi services or apps for fair rates.
- Authorized Taxi Services: Check for official signs and logos.
- Taxi Apps: Download trusted taxi apps in advance.
- Fair Rates: Compare rates with local information before travel.
3. Shops Overpricing Tourist Items
Some shops in Kawaguchi may overprice tourist items. Research prices and shop around for better deals.
- Research Prices: Use online resources to compare prices.
- Shop Around: Don't settle for the first shop you see.
- Trusted Shops: Ask locals for recommendations.
4. Food Poisoning from Street Vendors
Some street food vendors in Kawaguchi may use poor quality ingredients or unsanitary conditions. Stick to established and busy vendors.
- Established Vendors: Look for permanent structures and signs.
- Busy Vendors: Choose vendors with a constant flow of customers.
- Avoid Unsanitary Conditions: Check for cleanliness and food safety measures.
5. Counterfeit Tickets for Mount Fuji Area
Be careful when buying tickets for Mount Fuji area attractions as counterfeits are common. Purchase from official outlets.
- Official Outlets: Look for authorized sale points.
- Check Authenticity: Compare tickets with official images or ask for assistance.
- Avoid Street Vendors: Beware of tickets sold by street vendors.
6. Fake Guides and Tour Operators
Some tour operators or guides in Kawaguchi may not be legitimate. Use established and recommended services.
- Established Services: Look for licensed and well-known companies.
- Recommendations: Ask locals or research online for trusted tour operators.
- Check Licenses: Verify guides' and operators' licenses if possible.
7. ATM Skimming in Kawaguchi
ATMs in Kawaguchi may be equipped with skimmers to steal card information. Use ATMs in well-lit and busy areas.
- Well-Lit Areas: Choose ATMs located in well-lit locations.
- Busy Areas: Use ATMs in busy and populated areas.
- Cover Card Slot: Always cover the card slot and keypad when entering your PIN.
8. Wi-Fi Theft in Public Spots
Public Wi-Fi spots in Kawaguchi may be set up to steal information. Only use secured and trusted networks.
- Secured Networks: Use networks with encryption (https).
- Trusted Networks: Avoid unsecured public networks.
- VPN Use: Consider using a VPN for added security.
9. Fraudulent Charity Collectors
Some charity collectors in Kawaguchi may be fraudulent. Research charities before donating.
- Research Charities: Check charity authenticity online.
- Official Collectors: Look for official charity badges or uniforms.
- Avoid Street Approaches: Don't respond to unsolicited approaches from collectors.
10. Unauthorized Car Rental Scams
Some car rental companies in Kawaguchi may not be authorized. Use established and well-known rental services.
- Established Companies: Choose well-established and recognized rental agencies.
- Check Licenses: Confirm the rental company's license before renting a car.
- Avoid Street Rentals: Avoid renting cars from street vendors or individuals.
11. Overpriced Accommodation
Some accommodations in Kawaguchi may overprice rooms. Research and book in advance for fair rates.
- Research Prices: Compare accommodation prices online.
- Book in Advance: Secure your booking early to lock in a good rate.
- Trusted Accommodations: Choose accommodations with positive reviews and ratings.
12. Fake Local Products
Some local product shops in Kawaguchi may sell counterfeits. Research authentic shops before buying.
- Research Authentic Shops: Look for licensed and well-known product shops.
- Check Authenticity: Compare products with official images or ask for assistance.
- Avoid Street Vendors: Beware of shops selling local products on the street.
13. Counterfeit Souvenirs
Some souvenir shops in Kawaguchi may sell counterfeits. Research authentic souvenir shops before buying.
- Research Authentic Shops: Look for licensed and well-known souvenir shops.
- Check Authenticity: Compare souvenirs with official images or ask for assistance.
- Avoid Street Vendors: Beware of souvenir shops selling counterfeits on the street.
14. Counterfeit Money Exchange
Some money exchange services in Kawaguchi may give counterfeit currency. Use reputable and authorized exchanges.
- Authorized Exchanges: Look for licensed and well-established money exchange services.
- Check Authenticity: Compare the received currency with genuine notes.
- Avoid Street Exchanges: Beware of unauthorized money exchanges on the street.
15. Fraudulent Online Bookings
Some online booking sites may be fraudulent. Use trusted and established travel websites.
- Established Websites: Choose well-established and recognized booking websites.
- Check Reviews: Look for positive reviews and ratings on the website.
- Secure Payment Methods: Ensure the website uses secure payment methods.