Hello everyone, I’m a Veteran specialize in providing in-depth information about Japan.
In Japan, some establishments engage in fraudulent activities, particularly targeting foreigners who don’t understand Japanese. The number of victims has been on the rise, and even Japanese individuals can fall prey to these schemes. In this post, I will explain their methods, how to avoid falling victim to these scams, and what to do if you find yourself in such a situation. I hope this information will help you stay vigilant and handle these situations calmly.
Deceptive Practices! The Top 3 Common Scams
These fraudulent activities in Japan are often referred to as “ぼったくり” (bottakuri), which involves demanding money from customers illegally, essentially a form of fraud. For example, in Southeast Asian markets, they may take advantage of tourists who are unfamiliar with local customs and intentionally raise prices for them, among other deceptive practices. In such cases, prices are often not clearly labeled, and most transactions are based on verbal agreements. Japan is generally safe, so victims of such scams are not always apparent. However, during the evening, especially in establishments related to the adult entertainment industry, these fraudulent practices persist, leading to a continuous source of crimes. Below, I will list the three most well-known deceptive methods employed by these adult entertainment establishments.
Method 1: “Bamboo Shoot Peeling”
The “Bamboo Shoot Peeling” scam originated in Nagoya and is infamous for having many victims. Initially, the establishment will lure customers with inexpensive service packages and immediately ask for payment once the customer enters. They will explain the service package again, just before the customer enters the room with a hostess. This explanation may include additional fees for services like disrobing or oral sex. However, in regular adult entertainment establishments, basic services like undressing or oral sex are typically included in the initial package price and should not incur extra charges. Many tourists may not be aware of this, and as a result, they end up paying several times more than they would in a typical establishment. The term “Bamboo Shoot Peeling” is used because this practice resembles peeling layers off bamboo shoots one by one. While this scam has decreased over the years, it is still important to be aware of it.
Method 2: “Blocking the Exit”
This method is commonly used in establishments with hostesses from countries like China. Similar to the “Bamboo Shoot Peeling” scam, they initially attract customers with affordable packages, but once inside, they block the exit and pressure customers to upgrade to more expensive packages, which can be significantly different from the initial agreement. If you try to leave the establishment by saying, “I can’t afford this,” they might physically block your exit. Most people confronted with this situation become scared and end up paying the exorbitant fees. If you don’t have enough cash on hand, they may even accompany you to an ATM to withdraw the money. Due to the aggressiveness of this method, many establishments have been subject to arrests. However, recent versions of this scam combine aspects of “Bamboo Shoot Peeling” and “Blocking the Exit.”
Method 3: “Bait and Switch”
While “Bait and Switch” scams do not necessarily involve financial fraud, they can be psychologically distressing. Essentially, you choose a hostess based on her photo but are provided with a completely different person when you enter the room. Even if you complain to the establishment, saying, “This isn’t the person from the photo!” they may insist, “This is the same person from the photo.” This forces you to accept the unexpected situation and pay for it, even though it doesn’t meet your expectations. Few establishments face legal action for this, making it a prevalent practice in the adult entertainment industry.
How to Avoid Falling Victim? Never Follow Promoters
First and foremost, it’s essential to be cautious when choosing establishments, as following promoters can be risky. In Japan, there’s already an understanding that promoters equate to fraud. Japanese people generally share this perception, but it might not be apparent to foreigners. This is why fraudulent establishments tend to target foreigners, resulting in numerous victims. In areas like Kabukicho, you might even see signs that read “100% Fraud at Promoter-Driven Establishments.” It’s crucial to be aware that following promoters is illegal in Japan, and establishments that engage in this activity are more likely to defraud foreigners.
If someone approaches you with “This place is open to foreigners!” in English or your native language, please ignore them. When you hear your native language in a foreign country, it’s natural to feel a sense of camaraderie, but these individuals are exploiting that sentiment, so it’s best to be cautious.
What to Do If You Fall Victim as a Foreigner?
There are several strategies, but let’s consider a scenario where you don’t speak Japanese. Even if you’re in the right, explaining the situation to the police in Japanese can be extremely challenging. Therefore, I’ll outline practical steps that anyone can take, even if they don’t speak Japanese.
Record Video Footage
In the case of foreign customers, establishments may write prices on paper and demand unreasonable fees. If you believe you are being scammed, firmly refuse and, at the same time, record video footage of the person you’re dealing with and the establishment. Scammers absolutely don’t want their faces or evidence of their fraudulent activities captured on video. While recording, make it clear that you’re rejecting their fraudulent behavior, which might make them back down.
Escape
Simply put, run away. You might wonder if running away is acceptable, but keep in mind that you’re dealing with someone who is in the wrong. Establishments employing scams like “Blocking the Exit” aim to exert psychological pressure, making you feel trapped and unable to leave. However, don’t let this affect you; seize an opportunity to escape.
In Conclusion
While the number of fraudulent establishments in Japan is decreasing, they still exist, and adult entertainment venues are particularly numerous. The safest way to avoid falling victim to scams is to never follow promoters.
