Caution! Stay Safe in Shinjuku: What You Need to Know About Street Solicitation Near Okubo Park

Shinjuku is one of Tokyo’s busiest entertainment districts, known for its nightlife, neon lights, and vibrant crowds. However, the area also has a darker side—especially around Kabukicho and Okubo Park, where incidents involving street solicitation have been increasingly reported. For travelers, it’s important to be aware of these situations to avoid getting involved in risky or illegal activities.

1. Current Situation in Shinjuku

Despite ongoing police crackdowns, some women still loiter or wait near parks and side streets to engage in solicitation. These individuals are often referred to as “tachinbo” (street solicitors). While police have increased patrols, particularly after the pandemic, areas like Okubo Park remain hotspots for such activity. Foreigners, transgender individuals, and even groups pretending to be couples have also been spotted, making the situation more complex.

2. Hotspot #1: Okubo Park Area

The area around Okubo Park is currently one of the most well-known locations for street solicitation. Common spots include near guardrails and vending machines. While the number decreased temporarily after police action in 2024–2025, reports suggest that activity has resumed. The park also draws crowds of onlookers, including men seeking encounters, which can create an uncomfortable or even unsafe environment.

3. Hotspot #2: Near Hotel Villa Fontaine

Located near Shinjuku Station and Kabukicho, this area is popular due to its business hotels and discreet alleys. Travelers have reported seeing women waiting along these streets, especially at night.

4. Hotspot #3: Near Okubo Hospital and Shokuan Street

Further from central Kabukicho, the Okubo Hospital and Shokuan Street area sees activity during quieter hours when police presence is less intense. Reports suggest solicitors here may include older women or individuals seeking less attention.

5. Other Reported Locations

Tokyo Health Plaza (Haijia) and nearby parking areas
In front of Alta Style store (often associated with Southeast Asian women)
Alleyways near Kabukicho Ichibangai

6. Common Hours and Patterns

Most activity begins after 7 p.m., peaking on weekends and late nights. Women typically do not initiate contact—men are expected to approach. To avoid police detection, some remain seated or walk slowly, making it harder to identify them at a glance.

A wide range of individuals are involved, including young Japanese women, older women, foreigners, and transgender people.

According to unofficial reports shared online, the so-called “market rate” is said to be around 20,000 yen. However, it is important to stress that any such transaction is illegal in Japan.

Engaging in paid sexual activity can lead to arrest, extortion, or other serious consequences—including involvement with undercover police or organized crime.

7. Risks of Illegal Transactions

Approaching these individuals could lead to:

Criminal charges, as solicitation and paid sex are illegal in Japan.
Extortion scams, where a third party (posing as a “friend” or “boyfriend”) appears to threaten or rob the man who initiates contact. Victims may be coerced into withdrawing cash from ATMs.
Undercover police operations, increasing the chance of arrest or investigation.

8. Clothing and Appearance

Some solicitors may dress provocatively—short skirts, flashy tops, or revealing outfits, sometimes concealed under coats. However, many dress casually, making them difficult to identify. Please note: Just because a woman is walking alone doesn’t mean she’s a solicitor. The area is also used by locals and tourists alike.

9. Recent Police Activity

In 2024, over 30 arrests were made in a single month during a focused operation in Shinjuku. Entrances to parks and buildings were closed to deter illegal activity. However, the risks remain, particularly involving minors or undocumented individuals.

10. Final Warning for Travelers

Avoiding involvement in street solicitation is the best way to stay safe. Engaging with such individuals may lead to legal trouble, financial loss, or even physical danger. If you’re approached or feel unsafe, leave the area and contact local police or your embassy if needed.

11. ⚠️ Do Not Take Photos or Videos

Taking photos or videos in areas like Okubo Park or Kabukicho—especially if it involves people who appear to be engaged in suspicious activity—can lead to serious trouble.

There have been multiple reports of the following incidents:

Verbal and physical confrontations, sometimes escalating into violence.
Extortion by individuals claiming to be associated with gangs (commonly referred to as yakuza).
Police involvement, even if the person filming did not intend any harm.

In some cases, people caught filming were forced to delete content, pay large sums of money, or even faced threats with weapons. These are not isolated incidents, and both locals and tourists have been affected.

Important: Japan’s laws regarding privacy are strict. Filming people without their consent, especially in compromising or private contexts, can be considered harassment or even illegal depending on the situation.

✅ Traveler Tips

Avoid walking alone late at night in areas like Okubo Park or Kabukicho alleys.
Never engage in suspicious or illegal activities—Japan’s laws are strict and enforced.
Be cautious of strangers who approach you in an overly friendly or private way.
Trust your instincts. If something feels off, walk away.

🛑 Reminder:

Prostitution is illegal in Japan, and even attempted negotiations can lead to arrest. Scams are common, and police enforcement is increasing.

Stay smart, stay safe, and enjoy the many genuine experiences that Tokyo has to offer.

Book quality hotels and ryokans in Japan at Rakuten Travel

Walking Alone at Night in Japan: How Safe Is It?

Best Neon Spots in Tokyo: Shinjuku & Shibuya Night Guide

Tokyo