If a foreign visitor to Japan loses his or her wallet, it is important to handle the situation quickly and calmly. The following is a detailed explanation of the procedure and a unique Japanese episode.
Report the loss to the police
The first thing to do is to file a lost property report at the nearest police station. In Japan, lost items are often reported to the police, and a prompt response can be expected. In fact, many foreigners are impressed by the experience in Japan that their lost and found items always return. At the police station, you will be asked to provide a detailed description of your lost item, so it is important to give an accurate list of the features of your wallet and its contents.
Stopping Credit and Cash Cards
If you find credit or cash cards in your wallet, contact your credit card company immediately to stop their use. In Japan, the procedure for reactivating your card if it is found is smooth. It is a good idea to take note of your credit card company’s contact information before you travel.
Stopping the use of electronic money
If you lose a card with an electronic money function, such as Suica or Pasmo, you will be required to suspend its use. This will reduce the risk of unauthorized use. You can suspend the use of your e-money card through each company’s website or customer service.
Locate and contact the lost location
If you have an idea where you lost your wallet, contact that location to see if your wallet has been found. In Japan, you can expect a sincere response, such as a cab driver not accepting your fare because he/she does not know your address, or a bus driver delivering your lost item for 150 yen.
What to do if your wallet is found
If your wallet is found, withdraw the lost and found report and contact your credit card company or financial institution to resume the procedure for reactivating your suspended card. In Japan, the person who found your wallet may wait for two hours in the cold weather and leave the forgotten item untouched.
Future Precautionary Measures
To avoid losing your wallet, you can take measures such as connecting your bag to your wallet with a string or placing a GPS-transmitting tag in your wallet. It is also important to always be aware that you have your wallet with you. In public places in Japan, it is common for people to leave their wallets on tables and leave their seats, but this is especially important in tourist areas and crowded places.
Lost and Found Culture in Japan
Lost and found” is a deeply rooted culture in Japan, and in many cases, lost wallets are reported to the police station or police box. This is due to the high level of public spirit and sincerity of the Japanese people, and is a reassuring support for foreign visitors.
Use of Lost and Found Centers
Lost and found centers have been established in major cities, where lost wallets are sometimes delivered. Lost and found centers sometimes post photos of lost items on their websites, so searching the Internet is also an effective way to find lost items.
Advice for Foreign Travelers
Foreign visitors to Japan are strongly advised to know in advance what to do in case they lose their wallets. Also, experiencing Japan’s lost-and-found culture and experiencing the honesty of the people of this country will be a wonderful memory of your trip.
By following the above procedures and episodes, you will be able to respond appropriately and keep your valuables safe in the event of an emergency. To ensure that your stay in Japan is safe and enjoyable, we recommend that you have this information before your trip.
