UK FCDO Updates Japan Travel Advice Due to Rising Drink Spiking and Fraud Reports in Tokyo

The British Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office issued a travel warning for Japan on Tuesday morning, addressing a surge in reports of a scam targeting tourists that involves drink spiking and credit card fraud. GB News reported that Japanese Police have identified Kabukicho, Roppongi, Shibuya, and Ikebukuro as high-risk areas in Tokyo.

Tourists are approached by street touts speaking English who lure victims into bars and nightclubs, where drinks are spiked.

Victims report waking up with no memory of the night before and discovering tens of thousands of pounds missing from their accounts. The FCDO stated there are increased reports of drink spiking and credit card fraud, with victims describing waking up with no memory of what happened and finding large amounts of money billed to their credit card.

The amount of money taken ranges from hundreds to tens of thousands of pounds.

Risks are higher in all entertainment and nightlife districts across Japan. Most British victims have reported being targeted in Kabukicho, a popular tourist destination in Shinjuku, according to the FCDO. Victims claim to be approached in English by street touts known as ‘kyakuhiki’.

Prostitution and street touts are illegal but commonplace in Japan, especially in the high-risk areas, the FCDO noted. A number of British nationals have been arrested at clubs and bars following disputes with staff and doorpersons over excessive bar bills.