Question 1

What is the "Overpriced Souvenir Shops" scam in Hiroshima?

Accepted Answer

Shops immediately adjacent to the Peace Memorial Park and Miyajima Island ferry terminals charge significantly inflated prices for souvenirs and momiji manju (maple leaf cakes). The same items are available much cheaper a short walk away. Walk at least one or two blocks from the main tourist entrance before buying souvenirs. Compare prices between multiple shops. Items at the busiest spot are always the most expensive — a short walk saves a lot.

Question 2

What is the "Miyajima Island Fake Souvenir Goods" scam in Hiroshima?

Accepted Answer

Some souvenir stalls near the Miyajima ferry landing and along Omotesando shopping street sell mass-produced items falsely labeled as locally crafted Miyajima specialties — particularly wooden rice paddles (shamoji) and Momiji manju sweets marketed as handmade but produced industrially off-island. Vendors overcharge relative to equivalent items sold in Hiroshima city and use packaging that implies artisanal provenance it does not have. Buy Momiji manju and shamoji from shops that visibly produce or bake the goods on-site — several bakeries on Omotesando demonstrate the process in their window. Compare prices with Hiroshima station souvenir shops before buying on the island, where costs are consistently higher.

Question 3

What is the "ATM Area Distraction and Pickpocketing" scam in Hiroshima?

Accepted Answer

While Japan is extremely safe, pickpockets occasionally operate around busy ATMs and crowded transit stations in Hiroshima. Someone may ask you a question or distract you while an accomplice takes advantage. Cover your PIN with your other hand when entering it. Be alert to anyone standing unusually close at an ATM. Keep your wallet in a front pocket and your bag zipped and facing forward in crowded areas like Hiroshima Station.

Street Scams in Hiroshima

Overpriced Souvenir Shops

Miyajima Island Fake Souvenir Goods

ATM Area Distraction and Pickpocketing

Experienced a scam here?