Yes, it’s true. If you go to Kabukicho in Shinjuku or Roppongi at night, chances are a “promoter” has already invited you to “their bar.” What seems like a casual invitation can lead to serious trouble in Japan — even with the law! 👮 Avoid unnecessary headaches by reading this article.
In recent years, there’s been an exponential increase in foreign tourists visiting Japan, and with that, a boom in the nightlife industry. This has led to many bars and clubs operating in a gray area, or even outside the law.
Who are these “street entrepreneurs” hanging out on the corners of Shinjuku and Roppongi?
Most of them are foreigners, but occasionally locals show up too.
Their job is to attract visitors and impress their bosses, no matter how they treat the customers.
They’ll tell you their place has beautiful girls, cheap drinks, good music, and more — all just to get you into their shady bar.
First off, you should know that while it’s legal in Japan to try to attract customers to your business, local rules require promoters to clearly identify themselves with uniforms or badges to avoid misunderstandings. And under no circumstances should they follow pedestrians, as that’s considered harassment in Japan — which is illegal.
Types of scams
There are countless scams, but here are some of the most common:
- The most common scam is overcharging. For example, if you go to a strip club, the girls will come to your table (you have to buy them a cocktail), stay with you for about 15 minutes, then move on to another customer’s table. To keep them with you, you’ll need to buy another drink for yourself and for her, and then another, and another 🍷🍸... The problem comes when you pay — the bill is outrageously high, and if you refuse to pay, some very unfriendly guys will come to collect. If you’re very “alpha” and still refuse to pay, they might even call the police and show officers a hidden drinks menu tucked behind an old lamp or under the bathroom door, proving the prices are real and it’s your fault for not checking beforehand.
- A simpler scam is charging your credit card extra amounts while you’re relaxed on vacation, which you might not notice until you’re back home. 💳
- A more dangerous and rising problem is drugging tourists. There are countless online reports of people waking up somewhere unknown without their cards, money, phone, or passport. ❌❌
- There are also scams common worldwide — for example, someone gets too close with their phone to your face, then pretends you broke it and demands payment. If you refuse, they act aggressively.
As for legality, remember harassment is prohibited, so many of these workers especially target tourists or foreigners, sometimes with excessive persistence, which can be uncomfortable or intimidating.
Why do they do it? Isn’t it illegal?
Yes, it’s illegal. But most tourists don’t speak Japanese and don’t want to waste precious vacation time at a police station trying to explain a situation that likely won’t lead anywhere.
Tips for staying safe
Japan is generally very safe, and you can go anywhere at any time of day or night. However, Kabukicho (Shinjuku) and Roppongi are exceptions where caution is needed. To avoid problems, follow these tips when you’re in those neighborhoods:
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Avoid eye contact in these areas. 👀
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If someone talks to you, just don’t respond.
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Always walk on well-lit streets with lots of people.
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Don’t walk around too late in these neighborhoods. 🕛
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Avoid staying overnight in these areas.
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Never follow strangers to a bar, and always watch your belongings — especially your drinks.
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Don’t consume anything if you suspect it’s been tampered with. 💊💊
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Trust your instincts — if something feels weird or unsafe, leave immediately!
Have you experienced nightlife in Tokyo? Share your tips or questions in the comments!
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Note: This article is for informational purposes only and does not intend to generalize or judge any group. The situations described reflect experiences shared by tourists in specific areas of Tokyo.
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