Basic Principles of Security:
- Outsmart pickpockets and thieves: be aware of your surroundings and stay alert.
- Leave valuables at home and keep items like your camera or smartphone in hand or safely tucked away.
- Make sure your cell phone is charged. You definitely need to send an apologetic text in the event that you're running late.
- Selfie Sticks: As of September 2015, these long devices have been banned from over 1,000 JR stations in Western Japan so please check signs around the station should you decide to use a Selfie Stick, or just be safe (and not poke anyone!) and don’t use one!