Sharp Surge in Scams Targeting Short-term Foreign Visitors in Japan

Society | January 7, 2026
Japan Fraud Foreign Visitors Law Enforcement Crime Rate Short-term Stay

There has been a threefold increase in fraud cases involving short-term foreign visitors in Japan. While the specific details surrounding the surge are unclear from the headline, authorities are taking active measures to crack down on these scams. The rise in fraudulent activities has raised concerns about the safety of foreigners visiting Japan for short stays.

In Japan, societal stability and public safety have always been primary concerns. The influx in scammable cases is of considerable worry due to the potential harm to Japan's reputation as a safe destination for travelers. Moreover, it goes against social values that advocate for the overall well-being of all residents– including foreign visitors.

In the US or EU, such issues are also taken with the utmost seriousness. Protecting the rights of citizens and visitors alike is prioritized, and action is taken to strictly regulate and penalize such fraudulent activities. Public awareness campaigns are commonly conducted to help individuals spot and avoid scams.

Information for Your Country

Travel advisories and notifications on potential scams can be found on official embassy websites. Further, you can check sites such as National Consumer Affairs Center of Japan or Japan Tourism Agency’s Safety Guide.