Japan travel advice
Change made:
Updated information on drink spiking and new information about illegal drugs (‘Safety and security’ page).
There is a risk of drink spiking and credit card fraud. Victims have described waking up with no memory of what happened and discovering large amounts of money billed to their credit card. Risks are higher in all entertainment and nightlife districts across Japan. In particular, the Japanese police have identified the following areas in Tokyo as high-risk zones:
- Kabukicho
- Roppongi
- Shibuya
- Ikebukuro
You can reduce the risk of spiking by:
- not accepting drinks from strangers
- not leaving drinks unattended or asking a trusted friend to keep an eye on your unfinished drink
Card fraudsters may skim or clone bank cards when you pay for food or drink. You may need a police report before your credit card company will consider processing a fraud claim.
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