Question 1

What is the "Tanukikoji Shopping Arcade Souvenir Overpricing" scam in Sapporo?

Accepted Answer

Several souvenir shops along the covered Tanukikoji Shopping Arcade in central Sapporo mark up Hokkaido specialty products — particularly Royce chocolate, Shiroi Koibito biscuits, and dried seafood — well above the standard retail price found at Chitose Airport duty-free or department store basement food halls. Staff may claim the products are limited editions or exclusive to the shop to justify the inflated price. Visitors who buy here without price-checking elsewhere often pay 30–60% more than necessary. The scam is passive rather than aggressive but consistently traps first-time visitors. Compare prices at Sapporo Station's underground shopping mall (Apia or Paseo) or at New Chitose Airport's departure hall before buying souvenirs on Tanukikoji. Official Shiroi Koibito product pricing is standardised — any significant markup is unjustified.

Question 2

What is the "Fake Monk Donation Scam" scam in Sapporo?

Accepted Answer

Individuals dressed in Buddhist monk robes wait near Sapporo shrines and temples selling bracelets or trinkets supposedly as charitable donations. The money goes directly into their pocket and the items have no genuine religious significance. Real monks in Japan do not approach tourists for money or sell items in the street. If someone in robes solicits you, politely decline and walk away. If you wish to donate, use the official temple donation box inside the grounds.

Question 3

What is the "Unlicensed Souvenir Resellers Near Sapporo Clock Tower" scam in Sapporo?

Accepted Answer

Hawkers near the Sapporo Clock Tower (Tokeidai) and Old Hokkaido Government Building area sell Hokkaido food souvenirs — particularly Royce' chocolate, LeTAO cheese tarts, and Shiroi Koibito cookies — at inflated prices and, in some cases, with counterfeit or near-expiry packaging. Legitimate versions of these are widely available at standard prices inside JR Sapporo Station or New Chitose Airport. Buy iconic Hokkaido food souvenirs at JR Sapporo Station's dedicated souvenir floors, Chitose Airport departure halls, or at the brand's own shops (Royce' factory, LeTAO Sapporo Odori). Do not buy from street vendors or unlicensed kiosks near tourist landmarks.

Street Scams in Sapporo

Tanukikoji Shopping Arcade Souvenir Overpricing

Fake Monk Donation Scam

Unlicensed Souvenir Resellers Near Sapporo Clock Tower

Experienced a scam here?