Tokyo is one of the world's safest cities, but its nightlife — particularly in Kabukicho, Shinjuku — can catch unwary tourists off guard. Host and hostess clubs, while a legitimate part of Japanese culture, are also used as fronts for scams targeting foreigners.
What Are Host/Hostess Clubs?
Host clubs (for female customers) and hostess clubs (for male customers) are establishments where attractive staff members provide conversation, companionship, and drinks. Legitimate ones are part of Japanese entertainment culture — but tourist-targeting ones are pure scams.
The Kabukicho Tout Scam
How it works: 1. A tout (Nigerian, Japanese, or other nationality) approaches you on the street in Kabukicho 2. They promise "cheap drinks," "beautiful girls/guys," or a "special deal" 3. You're taken to a basement or upper-floor bar 4. After a couple of drinks, you receive a bill for ¥50,000-¥200,000+ (US$350-$1,400+) 5. Large, intimidating staff ensure you pay
How to avoid it: - Never follow street touts anywhere — this is rule number one - If someone approaches you on the street offering nightlife, walk away - Choose your own bars and restaurants — research in advance - Google Maps reviews are your best friend
The "Free Drink" Bait
Touts offer "one free drink" or "no cover charge" to lure you in. Once inside, the free drink arrives — along with ¥5,000 "table charges," ¥3,000 "service fees," and ¥10,000 companion charges you didn't agree to.
How to avoid it: - Nothing is free in Kabukicho — if it sounds too good to be true, it is - Always ask for a printed price list before sitting down - If there's no English menu with clear prices, leave immediately
The Drink Refill Scam
In some hostess/host clubs, your companion's drinks are charged to your tab. They order expensive champagne or cocktails, and each round adds thousands of yen to your bill. The companion is incentivized to make you spend as much as possible.
How to avoid it: - If you choose to visit a legitimate club, set a firm budget beforehand - Ask explicitly what you'll be charged for - Keep track of what's being ordered - Don't let anyone order on your behalf without confirming the price
Spiked Drinks
While rare in Tokyo compared to other cities, drink spiking does occur in shady Kabukicho establishments. You wake up with an enormous credit card bill and no memory of the evening.
How to avoid it: - Never accept drinks from strangers - Watch your drink being prepared - If you feel unusually intoxicated after just one or two drinks, leave immediately - Go out with friends and watch out for each other
Legitimate vs. Scam Establishments
Red flags (likely a scam): - Street touts directing you there - No visible menu or price list - Located in a basement or upper floor with no street signage - Staff who are overly eager to get you inside - No Google Maps listing or terrible reviews
Signs of a legitimate bar: - Listed on Google Maps with positive reviews - Clear pricing displayed at the entrance - Street-level location with visible signage - Recommended by your hotel or guidebook - Other customers already inside
Safe Nightlife Areas in Tokyo
- Golden Gai, Shinjuku — tiny bars, authentic atmosphere (just choose one that looks busy)
- Shibuya Center-Gai — crowded but generally safe
- Roppongi — touristy but stick to known establishments
- Shimokitazawa — local favorite, relaxed bars
- Nakameguro — trendy, safe, great cocktail bars
- Ebisu — upscale, safe nightlife area
What to Do If You're Scammed
- Don't pay an outrageous bill — calmly state you only agreed to specific prices
- Call the police if threatened: dial 110
- The Shinjuku Police Station is at 1-1-1 Kabukicho (yes, right in the area)
- Contact your credit card company to dispute any fraudulent charges
- Take photos of the bill, establishment, and any menus
- Report it at Avoid Travel Scams
Tokyo Nightlife Tips
- Drink at convenience stores (konbini) or izakayas for cheap, safe drinks
- Many restaurants and bars have picture menus or English menus — use them
- Tipping is not customary in Japan — any "service charge" should be clearly stated
- Last trains run around midnight — check your line's schedule
- Capsule hotels are a safe, cheap option if you miss the last train
- Karaoke boxes (Big Echo, Joysound) are safe, fun, and clearly priced
Emergency Contacts
- Police: 110
- Emergency: 119
- Tokyo English Lifeline: 03-5774-0992
- JNTO Tourist Hotline: 050-3816-2787 (English, 24/7)
Tokyo's nightlife is legendary and mostly safe. Stick to recommended spots, avoid street touts entirely, and you'll have an incredible time exploring one of the world's greatest cities after dark.
Stay Protected on Your Travels
Subscribe to our weekly travel safety alerts for real-time scam warnings, destination-specific tips, and expert advice delivered directly to your inbox. Join thousands of savvy travelers who stay one step ahead of scammers.
→ Subscribe to Travel Safety Alerts
Related Reading
- 25 Scam Red Flags Every Traveler Should Know — Learn the warning signs
- Airport Scam Survival 2027 — Protect yourself from arrival to departure
- Report Travel Scams — Share your experience
- Solo Female Traveller Safety Guide — Safety tips for independent travelers