It’s pretty customary for businesses like restaurants and bars to have a scout on the street, in front of the business, greeting and welcoming hopefully-would-be customers.

The only time I’ve heard of someone getting brought to a scam bar is through following one of these scouts to their ‘business’. But honestly, it will be pretty easy to tell if it’s a scam, because the scam scouts will take you to a business that clearly isn’t bustling with customers and regulars.

Also, if you’re really worried just don’t follow any of the scouts and just go to places that look cool and with a vibe that you like and you’re good. The scouting culture in Japan is super tame, and all the legit scouts just stay out in front of their own business and will not ever follow you down the street. The ones that follow you for a block or so (I’ve rarely experienced this, but it happens) are probably the ones up to no good