Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Ōita, Ōita, Japan

1. Taxi Scam

Unscrupulous taxi drivers may overcharge tourists. Always agree on the fare before starting your journey.

Agreement Before Ride: Always confirm and agree on the price before getting into a taxi.
Registered Taxis: Use only registered taxis with meter.
Avoid Peak Hours: Try to avoid peak hours to prevent surges in prices.

Unlicensed guides may approach tourists offering tours. Only use licensed guides registered with the local tourist association.

Licensed Guide: Always verify your tour guide is licensed and registered.
Tourist Association: Book tours through the local tourist association to ensure guides are legitimate.
Avoid Street Approaches: Do not accept offers from street guides, only book tours through reputable channels.

Some souvenir shops may overcharge tourists. Visit local markets for cheaper and authentic souvenirs.

Local Markets: Visit local markets for affordable, authentic souvenirs.
Avoid Tourist Spots: Avoid buying souvenirs from shops near major tourist attractions as they tend to be overpriced.
Haggle: Always haggle and negotiate prices when shopping in Japan.

Restaurants may add extra charges to your bill. Check the menu carefully before ordering and ask for itemized bills.

ATMs may be rigged to skim your card information. Use ATMs located in banks or inside shopping centers.

Inside Banks: Use ATMs located inside banks for increased security.
Shopping Center ATMs: ATMs inside shopping centers are also generally safe.
Cover the Keypad: Always cover the keypad when entering your PIN to prevent shoulder surfing.

Counterfeit yen may be passed in transactions. Check the bills carefully for authenticity.

Check the Bill: Always check your change for authenticity.
Feel the Bill: Counterfeit yen often feel different, so feel the bills for a rough texture.
Light Test: Hold the bill up to light. Authentic bills have a watermark and security threads.

Casinos may use unfair practices. Stick to reputable casinos and games with transparent rules.

Reputable Casinos: Choose reputable casinos known for fair practices.
Transparent Games: Play games with clear and transparent rules to avoid being cheated.
Know the Odds: Understand the odds of each game before playing to make informed decisions.

Scalpers may sell fake or overpriced tickets for events. Buy tickets directly from official outlets.

Official Outlets: Always purchase tickets from official outlets.
Avoid Street Sales: Do not buy tickets from street vendors or private sellers.
Check Event Website: Always check the event website for information about ticket sales and prices.

Hotels may add hidden charges to your bill. Check the hotel's policy before booking.

Check Hotel Policy: Always check the hotel's policy for any additional charges.
Reputable Hotels: Choose reputable hotels with good reviews.
Avoid Minibar Use: Avoid using the minibar to prevent unexpected charges.

Public Wi-Fi may be used for data theft. Use a VPN when connecting to public networks.

VPN: Always use a VPN when connecting to public Wi-Fi.
Avoid Sensitive Transactions: Do not conduct sensitive transactions over public Wi-Fi.
Check Network Security: Always check the network security before connecting.

Pickpockets may target tourists. Keep your belongings secure and avoid crowded areas.

Keep Belongings Secure: Always keep your belongings secure, especially in crowded areas.
Avoid Distractions: Be aware of your surroundings and avoid distractions that may lead to theft.
Use a Money Belt: Consider using a money belt or hidden pocket for valuable items.

Scammers may call claiming to be from your bank or service provider. Hang up and contact them directly.

Call Directly: Always hang up and call the institution directly if you receive such a call.
Never Provide Info: Do not provide any personal information over the phone, even if they claim to be from your bank or service provider.
Verify Caller ID: Always verify the caller ID before providing any information.

Photographers may charge for taking your picture without permission. Politely decline and move on.

Politely Decline: Always politely decline if someone offers to take your picture without permission.
Avoid Busy Areas: Avoid busy areas where such incidents may be more common.
Check Local Laws: Check local laws regarding street photography to avoid any misunderstandings.

Scammers may pose as charity collectors. Research local charities before donating.

Research Local Charities: Always research local charities before making a donation.
Avoid Street Donations: Do not give money to street collectors, donate through reputable channels instead.
Check for Permits: Check if the charity collector has a permit from local authorities.

Some tour guides may try to pressure you into buying unnecessary items or services. Stick to your plans and budget.

Stick to Your Plans: Always stick to your travel plans and budget.
Avoid High-Pressure Tactics: Do not be pressured into buying anything you do not want or need.
Choose Reputable Tour Guides: Choose reputable tour guides who prioritize your needs over sales.