In our hyper-connected world, staying powered up on the go is essential, especially for travelers exploring bustling cities like Tokyo or Osaka. Japan, known for its innovative convenience culture, has embraced rental mobile batteries—also called power banks—as a lifesaver for tourists and locals alike. Services like ChargeSpot allow you to borrow a portable charger from convenience stores, train stations, or cafes, and return it at another location. But beneath this seamless system lurks a growing problem: some users are borrowing these devices and never returning them, instead flipping them for profit on online flea markets. This “borrow and steal” trend, known in Japanese as “karipaku,” is not just unethical—it’s potentially criminal, with lawyers warning of theft or embezzlement charges. In this post, we’ll dive into the issue, explore its implications, and offer tips for international visitors to stay safe and legal while keeping your devices charged.
The Rise of Rental Power Banks: A Traveler’s Best Friend
Japan’s rental power bank services have exploded in popularity, reflecting the country’s emphasis on efficiency and mobility. Imagine arriving in Tokyo after a long flight, your phone battery dipping below 10%, and spotting a ChargeSpot station at a nearby 7-Eleven or FamilyMart. With over 50,000 stations nationwide as of 2025, ChargeSpot dominates the market, allowing users to rent via apps like PayPay or LINE Pay. The process is simple: Scan a QR code, pop out a battery, and charge your device on the move. Rentals start at just 165 yen (about $1.10 USD) for under 30 minutes, scaling up to 640 yen for a full day. This flexibility is a game-changer for international tourists, who often rely on maps, translation apps, and ride-sharing services.
For many, these power banks are indispensable during travel. A 50-year-old visitor from Kansai shared in a recent interview: “When I’m traveling and suddenly need a charge, it’s perfect.” Indeed, with Japan’s extensive public transport and pedestrian-friendly cities, dead batteries can turn a fun day into a stressful one. Services like ChargeSpot have expanded globally, reaching Singapore, Thailand, and Hong Kong, but Japan remains the epicenter with its dense network. However, this convenience has a flip side, as not all users play by the rules.
The “Karipaku” Phenomenon: Borrowing Without Returning
Recent reports highlight a troubling trend: rental power banks are vanishing from circulation, only to reappear for sale on platforms like Mercari and Yahoo Auctions. Investigations by Japanese media, such as the TV program “It!,” revealed dozens of listings for these devices, often sold at bargain prices—500 yen each or 1,250 yen for a set of three. Shockingly, many were marked as “sold out,” indicating high demand for these pilfered goods.
ChargeSpot’s operator, INFORICH, estimates that about 0.5% of rentals—thousands annually—are never returned. Director Yuki Hashimoto explained: “We charge a combined usage fee and penalty of 4,080 yen (tax included) after five days.” This fee kicks in after 120 hours, but crucially, paying it doesn’t grant ownership—the terms explicitly state that users aren’t buying the battery. Despite this, some exploit the system by “karipaku,” borrowing indefinitely and reselling.
Limited-edition collaborations exacerbate the issue. For instance, batteries featuring popular idol groups, with only about 3,000 units produced, have fetched up to 6,000 yen on resale sites. These rare items appeal to collectors, fueling a black market that undermines the rental model’s sustainability.
Legal Ramifications: From Civil Penalties to Criminal Charges
What might seem like a minor infraction can escalate into serious legal trouble. Japanese lawyer Hiroshi Mizokami from Hashimoto Sogo Law Office warns: “If the intent was to resell from the start, it could constitute theft. Even if the idea comes later, embezzlement charges are highly likely.” Theft in Japan can lead to fines or imprisonment, emphasizing the country’s strict stance on property crimes.
Platforms are cracking down too. Mercari has confirmed that such listings violate their terms and are removing them as prohibited items. LINE Yahoo similarly pledges to delete violations of laws or guidelines. For international users, this serves as a reminder: Japan’s legal system prioritizes restitution and deterrence, and ignorance isn’t a defense. If you’re visiting, always review app terms—ChargeSpot’s app, available in English, outlines these rules clearly.
Globally, similar issues plague power bank rentals. In the U.S., services like ChargeFuze and Brick charge hefty fees for non-returns, sometimes treating extended holds as theft. In India, startups like A3Charge face resale problems, prompting anti-theft designs such as reinforced shells. These cases highlight a universal challenge: balancing accessibility with security.
Hidden Risks for Buyers: Safety and Quality Concerns
Buying a resold rental power bank isn’t just supporting unethical behavior—it’s risky. Lithium-ion batteries degrade over time, especially if mishandled. Hashimoto notes: “Due to aging and improper storage, like in extreme heat, safety risks are significant.” Overheated or damaged batteries can cause fires, a growing concern as recalls for faulty power banks rise worldwide.
User experiences shared on forums like Reddit echo this. Travelers in Japan have reported faulty rentals that charge slowly or fail entirely, leaving them stranded. One solo female traveler in Osaka described a nightmare scenario: A rented battery from 7-Eleven barely charged her phone, forcing her to navigate unfamiliar streets at night. Comments advised carrying personal batteries, like a reliable 10,000mAh model, to avoid such pitfalls.
Prevention and Tips for International Travelers
To combat these issues, companies are innovating. ChargeSpot integrates GPS tracking and app-based monitoring, while global brands like Brick report low theft rates due to batteries “resurfacing” eventually. Startups emphasize indoor placements to reduce vandalism.
If you’re traveling to Japan, here’s how to use rental power banks responsibly:
- Download the App First: Use ChargeSpot’s English interface to locate stations and understand fees. Avoid renting if your phone is dead—some spots allow QR scanning via other methods.
- Carry a Backup: Invest in a personal power bank for reliability, especially in rural areas with fewer stations.
- Return Promptly: Aim to return within 48 hours to avoid escalating fees. Use the app’s map for nearby spots.
- Report Issues: If a battery is faulty, contact support via the app for refunds or replacements, as one user did successfully.
By following these, you’ll enjoy Japan’s tech-savvy perks without the pitfalls.
Conclusion: Power Up Ethically
Rental power banks exemplify Japan’s ingenuity, making life easier for millions. Yet, the “karipaku” trend threatens this ecosystem, leading to financial losses for companies and risks for unwitting buyers. With penalties up to 4,080 yen and potential criminal charges, it’s clear: borrowing means returning. For international audiences, understanding these nuances fosters respectful travel. Next time you’re in Japan, charge up responsibly—your adventure (and conscience) will thank you.
