Out and about
Staying safe at night
Japan is very safe, but nightlife districts have touts who lead visitors to bars with huge bills. A few habits keep a night out relaxed.
Touts and overpriced bars
Step by step
Walk past people who stop you on the street to offer a bar, a club or a massage — touting is banned in many districts.
Choose a place yourself, and check the menu and prices (including any table charge) before ordering.
Pay for each round as you go, and keep your card in sight.
If a bill looks wrong, don't pay on the spot — call 110 or ask to go to a kōban.
Common mistakes
- Following a friendly stranger to "a cheaper bar nearby".
- Leaving your drink unattended.
Unwanted touching on crowded trains
Step by step
If it happens, say loudly 「やめてください」 (yamete kudasai — stop it) or 「痴漢です」 (chikan desu — groper).
Ask people nearby for help and tell staff at the next station, or call 110.
On many lines, women-only cars run in the morning rush — signs on the platform show where.
Common mistakes
- Staying quiet because you aren't sure of the words — the lines below work.
Sources
Sources (checked 2026-11-04). Facts, numbers and prices on this page come from these official pages.
- Tokyo Metropolitan Police DepartmentBe careful in entertainment districts(opens in a new tab)Tokyo Metropolitan Police: staying safe in nightlife districts
- Tokyo Metropolitan Police DepartmentFor Visitors to Tokyo(opens in a new tab)Tokyo Metropolitan Police: crime safety advice for visitors
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