Destination taxes, and accommodation taxes: greed at its best. Tourists used to be welcomed because they left money in the country. But that's no longer enough.
A friend who went to a bar called R2 in Roppongi was drugged by two women and charged the billed outrageously. The bartender may have been with them. It was reported to Police. Need to be careful when traveling and take extra precautions especially when going out at night in Tokyo
@@Smithlord Japanese police have been on the take from criminals since the 1950s. Like most cops around the world. Only difference police in Japan believe their own lies.
Well if you don't go to a place with english menu, you'd probably be kicked out. Some places in tokyo that don't have an english menu, also don't have english speaking staff which push them to kick any foreigners they see to avoid having to deal with them without having the ressources to do so
my #1 rule...: know atleast a minimum of the language spoken and in writing(hiragana). you get more out of your trip,and its much easier to acces places that have no english menu`s. they will serve you if you know atleast some basic japanese.
You’d miss a lot of great places then. Just do your research and if you’re winging it in the moment pay attention to the prices. The food is so good there across the board that you will often find a cheaper option thats not that far away and a lot easier to get into.
I was in Japan last summer for about a month and I gotta say the most common scam I saw was street touting. It’s very very prevalent in Tokyo prefecture mostly in Kabukicho and Harajuku. Some advice to remember as well, just try to not act too much like a tourist, come with some knowledge of the Japanese language and customs. I saw so many foreigners who were talking loudly on trains or on temple/shrine grounds. Lastly, something I’d recommend, don’t just get Japanese food (trust me ramen, curry, and fish get really boring after a week) one of my favorite memories was this small Tex/mex shop run by this guy obsessed with America and its culture. It was fun to talk with him about American/Japanese culture and it was really cool to see a Japanese take on western food.
Learn to say a little Japanese , are you kidding me ? It’s got to be one of the hardest languages to learn, if I’m going for a couple of weeks I don’t have the time to learn enough.
Though I was fortunate to not encounter these scams from my last trip to Japan, it is still noteworthy for this video to remind folks to be aware ahead of time. Very helpful indeed, especially the monk scams! I’ll be sure not to pay mind to those fake monks. Thanks again, Toshi!
Many of the Niseko resorts in Hokkaido have been taken over by foreign capital. You can no longer find Japan's good prices or services there. There are other great ski resorts in Hokkaido besides Niseko.😊
In the case of Japan undergoing a long period (over 30 years) of economic troubles and the current shockingly poor exchange rate, I do not consider tourist and foreigner pricing a scam. I'll pay $20 for fresh seafood and crab ramen (it's what I'd pay back in Hawaii). If I want to eat it, I'll pay $56 or close to $100 for a fresh seafood bowl. I wouldn't complain about tourist pricing in an actual developing nation either. I live in Hawaii, where the number of visitors annually (domestic and foreign) can be 7x or 8x the local population. On my island, about 10% of the people at any time are visitors. Yes, we need the business, but visitors put a strain on limited island resources (like groundwater), and wear and tear on infrastructure like roads. The most serious effects can be seen at such as the famous Hanauma Bay, where visitors can easily view reef fish while swimming. The number of visitors (locals or tourists) has to be restricted and an entree fee imposed, to offset the environmental damage directly involved by visitor traffic. Suntan lotion and feeding the fish damages water quality and visibility. People stepping on the reef despite warnings, damages the living coral. It is not unreasonable for visitors to contribute to utilities and infrastructure through accommodations tax. It's not a "scam".
Thank you for your opinion based on your experience!! It's very helpful for me to understand the difference between Japan and other countries. I appreciate it!
Brotha all these issues are the fault of the government 😂. How is it the tourists fault when gov allows it and the tourists dont know about almost all of these problems
My friend you are doing a great service here. I really appreciate people who share info on what to watch for in places like japan where as a foreigner might have a really hard time learning these things on their own. Many good vibes for you my dude! 😊
Strangely enough, I'm well aware of these "tourist traps" even though I've never been to Japan. These “tourist traps” are the order of the day here in Berlin. In Berlin there are also pickpocketings and/or robberies. If you come to Berlin by car, it can happen that it is broken into and emptied. The next problem in Berlin, beggars, can be found at almost every train station and tourist hotspot. Or the hawkers who sometimes only sell you junk. Then there are the "windshield cleaners who ambush you at red" traffic lights and try to clean your windshield. They'll put a dent in your car if you don't pay. Then there are the drug dealers who come to you even in broad daylight , try to sell you drugs. The next problem, prostitution, official and illegal, in night bars or on the street or in relevant red light districts.
I think it's the same in all big cities throughout the world. What you're describing for Berlin are exactly the same scams we see here in Manila where we live.
Japan is an amazing place, and Japanese people are invariably polite and honest. If you're approached in the street by anyone other than Police, it's likely a scam. Many of the scammers aren't even Japanese, but foreigners working for criminal orgs to stay in the country !!
unfortunatly, in the past there have been cases where those in a somewhat beliveable police uniform where scammers too. so make sure you know how a proper police uniform looks like. when in doubt, just go to the nearest police box.
Thank god im from NYC. Between the crazies, mental health people, homeless beggars, and thieves, I've been fortunate enough in all 22 countries I've been to to not be scammed or robbed bc I know what they sound like...
Only 6 of these are scams. The other 10 are regular taxes which you cannot avoid and everyone has to pay. Don't pad your video with sensationalized hype.
Also if you look lost in a train station like Tokyo or any other main station In Japan. Go to the main information desk. Someone thought I was a tourist and offered to take me to the Shinkansen desk which was in another part of the station, I knew it was a scam so I declined took a quick picture and went to the picture and went to the police and they said they knew of him. So ignore them
Experienced my first scammer in Akihabara. She tried to hand me a book, but I told her no thank you in Japanese before continuing on. Honestly I’ve had more fun in Kochi Prefecture than I did in Kanagawa and Tokyo. Plus the people are so much more nicer and helpful.
In what world is that a scam? Lol. Many people hand out booklets or pamphlets to advertise their services. I see them out on the streets all the time, and sometimes I take one.
After living in Japan 28 years I’m convinced: Avoid Kyoto! Yes you read that. Don’t bother with the crowds and price gouging. Have a day or two in Kamakura if you’re that keen on shrines and temples and then branch out. There are so many places that you can enjoy more than Kyoto.
Correct, Kyoto was beyond packed, selling trinkets and such everywhere, a real pain to get to and leave....I would just hang out in Tokyo and see those shrines if I ever go back.
At 10:47 the Hawaii residents discount is called "Kamaaina discount" . Other places offers Kamaaina discounts too. Hawaii became a very expensive state to live in because of tourists and a lot of locals are struggling with the price hike, so it's good that some local businesses also gives discounts to the local people.
@Toshi-Guide-from-Japan thank you for making this video as well. It helps a lot of people who wants to visit Japan and have a great experience. I myself is also planning on visiting Japan next yead for the first time. Thank you for your efforts and knowledge on making this video. 🙏
Yes Hawaii... KAMACHATKA..SAKHALIN Singapore are the cousins genetic historical brothers true brothers of Japan+ Greenland ESQUIMOS...and Singapore..in Singapore 40%of population I've noticed is a Mongol SAKHALIN Russo Japanese emigrant..Singapore have real Mongols cleaning machine do tables...white skin Mongols....when did they arrived in Singapore..Japanese have once been Singapore I visited the Japanese memorial monument in SINGAPORE....I NEVER BEEN TO SAKHALIN YET
when i was a student in 2003, these street touts offer coupons for izakaya and nomihodai special in shinjuku/shibuya. they were legit and good, so sad to see that they now could be scams
The accommodation tax on rooms right now is reasonable in Japan, but I would hate to see the government raise them to unreasonable amounts and end up like it is here in the US. We have a "resort fee" which is basically just tacked on for profits for the hotels. Especially in places like Las Vegas where the high end hotels are now charging $50 per night. So the room rate might show as $299/night on the website, but in reality after the resort fee, accommodation tax and sales tax it could be more like $375-$400/night.
Thank you for sharing US info. Oh, I remembered resort tax in Las Vegas. It's difficult for tourists to understand, so I hope the price will be simple.
The monk thing is not unique to japan. This has been an issue with fake Buddhist monks in several countries for decades. the bar scams, drugging, and the modeling one are old. Like...a known issue from over a decade ago. they are fairly easy to avoid. The bar one especially. Dont follow anyone into a bar especially the 'hey you want a free drink?' bars. the tourist pricing thing is pretty easy to spot and isnt really a new issue. its just certain businesses targeting idiots. The bath tax thing isnt a scam. they will tell you up front and it is not just for tourists. Locals to the area may be exempt by ID. This is most common at hotels that have an onsen on site. This applies to the accommodation tax. this is not a scam. This is a local legal change. its to help curb over crowding. Basically all the taxes here arent taxes. You all know how taxes work.
😮🙏 Thank You So Much Good Brother for educating tourists not to be cheated or scammed while holidaying in Japan! This apply to all countries for tourists as many tourist sites do encounter these tourist traps set-up by opportunistic businesses ... 🙏 Arigato Gozaimasu for your kind & thoughtful education Good Brother San! 🙏🌷🌿🌍✌💜🕊
Like in every country. If someone comes to you and asks for money, tell them to piss off. Be as rude as you can and they will leave you alone. In Japan going full JoJo 断る works too.
You forgot the broken tsubo scam, you bump into a man carrying a priceless tsubo he drops it and claims its your fault. Now you have to work on a tuna boat. 😁
When I went to Japan, since I can speak Japanese without problem, I went the whiskey bar in Fukuoka and met a guy sit next to me. We took sweet two hours for talking about baseball. It ended as Kyojin can go hell. (he was from Kansai). He started to sing 六甲おろし(famous rally song for Hanshin Tigers), and I thought bartender will stop him. Actually bartender brought out the signed Hanshin baseball cap, wore it and sung together. Best moment in trip to Japan. Certainly there are many tourist traps... if you don't know how it work, it can be total rip off and overcrowding hell. I recommend you to go the less famous cities. Much pleasing experience than big cities in my opinion.
Thank you for sharing your wonderful experiences and good advices. Those are very helpful for other tourists and me! I hope you come back to Japan soon.
Hello Toshi. We buy beer at the conbi or the grocery store, but it is 100% alcohol free beer. So is there a tax? And Kansai International airport used to charge an airport facility charge, do they still do that?
>So is there a tax? Non-alcoholic beer is not subject to liquor tax. >And Kansai International airport used to charge an airport facility charge, do they still do that? Yes. It still costs money.
That's why most Japanese drink at home I'd never go to a city bar only out to restaurants I'm living rural so never have this issue ever I think most trouble are in Tokyo and larger city area's were younger bored trouble maker's hang out
Same breed different country huh. In the UK you're less likely to worry about businesses scamming you but beggars, charities and your regular folks in the streets can and will approach you if they are opportunists.
Thanks for your advice. Personally, I just visited Japan but was lucky not to have experienced any. I counted 8 scammy tactics. The new taxes are a new trend around the world due to growing tourism or govts taxing foreign visitors
National monuments, like temples and such, I understand charging foreigners a fee. Which I would pay to see. I view it as kinda like helping maintain the place
My #1 rule... Bring your streets smarts with you! Just because you're in Japan, doesn't mean you're in a safe haven! Yes, it's traditionally safe, but don't ever lose your guard wherever you go! Anywhere! There will always be crime, wherever you are! It's human nature! Tip for the drinks scamming, don't ever run a tab. Whenever you get a drink, pay right away! That way you can always stop the transaction! Girls leading you into bars are employees of that bar, so there's are way higher priced!
Much love from America! I have not been to Japan. ( I probably never will though, If I did I would have to go by boat, I am terrified of flying.) Thank you for being honest and not sugar coating things about your home country, in order to keep others safe. I know for the most part Japan is safe but helping others to spot a scam or potential threats is very commendable. America gets crapped on but it is NOT as bad as they make it out to be, especially if you live in a rural area like I do. America's issues are pretty much isolated to Big Cities that are progressive/liberal and/or democrat run. I live in Mississippi and it is fields of soy, rice, corn, cotton, and peanuts. So whenever I see rural areas of Japan with fields as far as the eyes can see, it reminds me of home. I come from farmer's so agriculture is important to me. Keep up the good work!
Thank you for sharing your friendly comments and your country situation. It's very helpful for me to understand the difference between Japan and other countries. I hope you come to Japan someday!
Oh may I please ask you a question about your home state?! Is Mississippi generally safe for a mum and young children to visit? The videos I've seen don't mention Mississippi except to say it's not a wealthy state? I'm Australian so don't really have a good source. Kind regards
I would prefer to spend my money and time in a straightforward country like Thailand where prices are displayed correctly and don't have hidden tax etc etc.
Japan has indeed changed a bit. Either I looked poor or of a Chinese ethnic, I dun get approached by people of those nature. Japanese are generally polite and helpful.
I think so too. As a Japanese tourist guide, I really want foreign tourists to have a good time in Japan. So, I created this video. I hope you have a good time in Japan someday!
Scammers and Tourist Traps are everywhere, including the US. Roppangi was our clubbing spot when my Ship visits Yokosuka base.haha about the karaoke bars, we have most near the military bases that you pay by what you buy, not by the hr like most bars do. It was also in the News about removing the hourly service and just charge by the drink. It's a bar anyways, not a club. Hello from Saga Prefecture
Another scam we encountered was the attempted short-changing us, “accidentally”. However, we are very wary about that trick, and so far it hasn’t worked. Although at least a couple of vendors have seemingly tried it.
Just a bit of my two cents with regard to the bars. I've been to Osaka twice and Tokyo once and bar hop lots during those days, and I find Google Maps reviews a good indicator of things. If a bar has only 4 or 5 stars review, don't go there as the reviews may have been manipulated (that the store owner may ask Google or you to remove the bad review using their defamation laws). If the store has a mixed between from 1 to 5 stars, those are typically decent and are typically safe, but best to read what the reviews says first. I also find bars that tell you openly they have different cover fees (or entry fees) for locals and foreigners can be decent as well, but best to throw some caution to the air. I had one bar that has different cover fees, but drinks and food are exactly the same and another bar had different cover fees for locals and foreigners as well but had two different menus. The Japanese menu are about 200 to 300 yen cheaper than the English ones and if you can read and speak Japanese and asked for the Japanese menu, and they refuse, that's your cue to run.
❤❤thank you so much. Last april at haneda airport at security check , the women officer took my 3 of 100 dollars bill to put in xray machine and return only 2nof them. Japanese not honest anymore
Being from a top 5 most dangerous city in EU, i find it so funny when people talk about 'danger' in Japan, I wonder how people who think like this would do here.
