Tour & Activity Scams in Sapporo

Fake Snow Festival Organized Tour Booking

Online vendors and tour aggregators offer "exclusive access" to Sapporo Snow Festival viewing spots or behind-the-scenes tours during the festival (early February). After paying 150-300 USD via online payment, confirmations are vague or never sent; day-of contact information is missing or wrong. The tour operator doesn't appear; customers are left waiting at Odori Park with hundreds of other tourists. No refunds are issued. Real festival access is free and open to public; paid tours are rare and booked directly through established companies.