Have you ever felt that the hurdles to securing a ticket for your favorite artist’s concert were too high? Especially, when you are outside and have no one you can truly trust, you may use Onegai Kaeru shopping support to try to secure ticket in Japan.
Many fans purchase tickets through paid fan club memberships with Onegai Kaeru proxy address service, but issues like ticket scalping and price inflation have become significant concerns in recent years.
The NEC Group’s independent think tank, the International Institute for Social and Economic Studies (IISE), conducted a survey on “Fan Club Membership and Concert Ticket Purchases.” This survey, involving 1,216 respondents aged 18 to 69, revealed mounting frustration among fans over difficulties in obtaining tickets for popular events and the impact of illegal resales that prevent genuine fans from attending.
Challenges in Ticket Purchases and Perceptions of Unfairness
Fan club members often have priority access to tickets, and IISE’s survey showed that approximately 43% of concert ticket buyers are part of a fan club. Among these members, an overwhelming 67% cited “priority access to tickets” as the main reason for joining.
Despite this, fans expressed various frustrations, including:
- Ticket prices and additional fees.
- Difficulty obtaining tickets for popular events.
- Lack of clarity or choice in seating arrangements.
- Challenges in canceling or modifying purchases.
- Instances where fan club members still could not secure tickets.
- Scheduling conflicts due to long lead times before events.
Based on the results, IISE identified four key challenges in the current ticketing system:
1. The difficulty and perceived unfairness of ticket purchasing.
2. Dissatisfaction with pricing.
3. Concerns about scheduling and post-purchase flexibility.
4. Stress during the purchasing process.
Scalping and the Support for Resale Services
Illegal reselling of tickets for highly sought-after performances at prices higher than the organizer’s set rates remains a pressing issue in the entertainment industry.
While 59% of survey respondents were aware of Japan’s 2019 law prohibiting illegal ticket resales, over 80% supported the law’s content. Fans also showed strong support (80%) for official resale services, which allow tickets to be resold through authorized platforms when unforeseen circumstances prevent attendance. These services ensure tickets are not wasted and provide transparency in the resale process.
With 71% of respondents favoring both the anti-scalping law and official resale systems, IISE concluded that integrating official resale mechanisms with legal restrictions on scalping offers a preferable approach to addressing this issue. (Source: IISE)
Yet, we do not like reseller. And many musicians also publicly announce they hate resellers. Thus, ID check at event concerts are ever more stringent in Japan.
Live concerts and events in Japan have grown increasingly popular, drawing audiences from around the world. Alongside this rise in demand comes the need for stricter ticketing regulations to address issues such as ticket scalping, resale fraud, and unauthorized entries. One of the most notable trends in recent years is the implementation of strict ID checks at live events.
This article explores for you why ID checks are becoming so important, how they are conducted, their benefits and drawbacks, and how foreign fans can prepare, especially those without a Japanese address.
The Rising Importance of ID Checks
Combating Ticket Scalping and Fraud
In Japan, high-profile events featuring popular groups like Morning Musume, Hello! Project, or global icons attract intense competition for tickets. This has led to widespread ticket scalping, with resale prices often skyrocketing far beyond their original value.
To combat this, event organizers have turned to ID checks to verify ticket holders' identities and ensure that tickets are used by the rightful buyers. For example, fans of Morning Musume must now link their tickets to a My Number Card (Japan’s national ID card), ensuring only registered individuals can gain entry.
Technological Advancements
The Japanese government, through its Digital Agency, is promoting the use of My Number Cards in the entertainment sector. By integrating these ID cards with ticketing systems, organizers aim to streamline processes, enhance security, and prevent fraud.
Recent pilot projects, such as those conducted at Hello! Project’s events, demonstrate the potential of My Number Cards in digitizing entry verification. These tests also explore improving user experience (UX) and operational efficiency.
How ID Checks Are Conducted
Before the Event
1. Ticket Registration: Fans must register their tickets under their name using an official identification document such as a My Number Card, passport, or driver’s license.
2. Verification via Digital Apps: Many ticketing platforms now offer integration with digital ID apps, ensuring that the buyer’s identity matches the ticket.
3. Special Allocation for ID Holders: Events like "Hello! Project Hinamatsuri 2025" even provide exclusive ticket draws for those who verify their identity with a My Number Card.
At the Venue
1. Document Presentation: Ticket holders are required to present both their ticket and a matching photo ID at the entry gate.
2. Facial Recognition and Manual Checks: In some cases, staff use facial recognition software or manually compare the attendee's face with the photo on their ID.
3. Strict Scrutiny: Even minor discrepancies, such as a missing apartment name on the ID or a difference in appearance, can result in denied entry.
Pros and Cons of ID Checks
Advantages
- Scalping Prevention: Linking tickets to personal identification significantly reduces unauthorized resales.
- Improved Security: Ensuring attendees are verified lowers risks of fraud and enhances the overall event experience.
- Exclusive Fan Experiences: Premium services, such as fan club-only access, become more reliable with ID-linked verification.
Disadvantages
- Overly Strict Policies: Some fans have reported being denied entry due to minor discrepancies, such as spelling errors or changes in appearance due to weight loss.
- Inconvenience: The process can be time-consuming and stressful, particularly for foreign fans unfamiliar with Japanese systems.
- Privacy Concerns: Critics have raised alarms about unnecessary exposure of sensitive information, such as My Number Card details.
How Foreign Fans Can Prepare
For foreign fans with no fixed address in Japan, navigating ID requirements can be challenging. Here are some steps to ensure a smooth experience:
1. Join a Fan Club with Proxy Services
Many Japanese fan clubs require a Japanese address for membership. Onegai Kaeru, with nearly 17 years of experience, offer proxy addresses for overseas fans. This allows international fans to register for tickets and other fan club perks without residing in Japan.
2. Carry Valid ID
If you do not have a My Number Card, use an internationally recognized ID like a passport. Ensure that your name matches the ticket exactly, including spelling and format.
3. Verify Appearance
Since discrepancies in appearance can lead to issues, ensure your ID photo reflects your current look. Avoid drastic changes in hairstyle or weight before the event.
4. Understand the Rules
Familiarize yourself with the ticketing process and entry requirements. Many event organizers provide detailed instructions in English for foreign fans.
Case Studies and Lessons Learned
Strict Checks Gone Too Far
Several incidents highlight how overly rigid ID checks can backfire. For instance, during the "WEST.10th Anniversary Osaka Shochikuza Performance," a fan was denied entry despite presenting a valid ID because her appearance had changed slightly after weight loss.
In another case, fans were denied entry due to minor errors, such as using a shortened form of their name during ticket registration. These situations have led to frustration and backlash on social media, urging organizers to balance security with fairness.
The Future of ID Checks in Japan
As digital technologies continue to evolve, ID verification at concerts and events will likely become more sophisticated. The successful implementation of My Number Cards could extend to other industries, such as sports events and luxury product sales. However, ensuring that the process remains inclusive and user-friendly is essential.
Onegai kaeru Fanclub proxy address service
ID checks are now an integral part of live concerts in Japan, aimed at creating a fair and secure experience for all attendees. While they come with challenges, proper preparation - Onegai Kaeru and ensuring accurate documentation—can help fans enjoy their favorite events hassle-free.
As Japan continues to refine its ticketing systems, fans worldwide can look forward to a safer and more enjoyable live entertainment experience.
Source: Livedoor news, Mainichi News
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