What is the "Currency Exchange Short-Change" scam in Tokyo?

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At small, unlicensed currency exchange counters and in some tourist-facing shops in Shinjuku's Kabukicho fringe and Asakusa's souvenir alleys, cashiers deliberately miscount change by folding ¥1,000 notes inside ¥10,000 notes, or by swapping ¥500 coins for the visually similar ¥100 coin. The confusion is amplified for visitors unfamiliar with Japanese yen denominations. Victims typically only notice the discrepancy after leaving the counter. Legitimate bank-affiliated exchange booths (marked with major bank logos) at Narita, Haneda, and large post offices do not use this practice. Always count your change slowly and in full view of the cashier before stepping away. Use ATMs inside 7-Eleven or Japan Post branches, which dispense correct amounts and display clear denomination breakdowns. Avoid exchange counters offering rates significantly above the interbank rate — the margin is usually recouped through short-changing.

Money & ATM Scams in Tokyo

Currency Exchange Short-Change

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