Japan investigates foreign youtubers with subscribers in millions over 'fare-dodging, stealing food'

A surge in the disruptive antics of influencers in Japan has ignited concerns in the country as tourism numbers approach pre-pandemic levels. A Japanese railway company is currently investigating allegations involving a group of four popular foreign YouTubers who are accused of evading train fares and exploiting hospitality. One of the alleged fare-dodgers, known online as Fidias, shared a video with his 2.38 million subscribers, showcasing him and three others avoiding rail staff and securing free meals. In one instance, he barricades himself in a bullet train’s restroom and feigns illness when confronted by a ticket collector, only to plan to repeat the trick on another train. Another clip depicts him pretending to be a hotel guest to enjoy complimentary breakfast. These actions have led to mixed reactions. While Fidias’s followers applaud his audacity, many social media users disapprove, accusing him of tarnishing Japan’s reputation for safety and hospitality. Some demand the arrest of all four individuals. Japan is striving to address issues related to over-tourism, including overcrowding at popular attractions, street drinking, and littering. The government is considering measures such as substantial increases in train fares and campaigns to redirect visitors to lesser-known rural areas to alleviate these concerns. Prime Minister Fumio Kishida expressed his concerns about the impact of bad tourist behavior on local residents, emphasizing the importance of respectful manners. These incidents follow the arrest of an American live streamer, Johnny Somali, for trespassing and disruptive behavior, including shouting provocative statements at construction workers. He also faced backlash for joking about the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. The train operator JR Kyushu is currently examining the footage of Fidias and his companions before deciding whether to involve the police. Fidias later issued an apology, acknowledging his lack of understanding of Japanese cultural norms and promising to conduct more research in the future. While there are numerous YouTube channels exploring various aspects of life in Japan, some influencers have drawn negative attention through their disruptive actions. In 2017, Logan Paul, a celebrity YouTuber, faced criticism for posting a video featuring a suicide victim’s body in Aokigahara forest, which was later removed. Several Japanese pranksters have also recently faced legal consequences for posting videos of unsanitary and disruptive behavior in restaurants. The rise in such disruptive influencer behavior is causing concern in Japan, as it strives to balance the benefits of increased tourism with the need to maintain safety and cultural respect.