What happened in the Eiji Kouda case?

Tokyo police detained Eiji Kouda and two others by March 13 on suspicion of using a fake cash bundle to obtain three Pokemon cards worth about JPY 50 million in a June 2024 hotel deal. Kouda denies the allegations. The investigation continues, and details may change as police gather evidence.

How can I avoid trading card scams in Japan?

Meet near a bank during business hours, verify IDs, and confirm payment in your account before handing over the card. For cash, count at a teller window. Use escrow for larger deals. Record the exchange with photos, serial numbers, a bill of sale, and saved chat logs.

Are high-value TCGs a safe alternative asset?

They can diversify a portfolio, but the alternative assets risk is real. Liquidity is uneven, prices can swing, and fraud risk rises in private trades. Lower risk with third-party grading, strong documentation, verified payments, and conservative position sizes compared to your liquid holdings.

What payment method is safest for collectibles in Japan?

Bank transfer that you confirm in your account before release is safest. If using cash, count at a bank counter where staff can spot counterfeits. Avoid sealed envelopes or staged bundles. For very high values, consider licensed escrow or a marketplace with protected payments and clear dispute processes.

Law and Government

March 18: Eiji Kouda Arrest Puts Japan’s Pokemon Card Fraud in Focus

ByHuzaifa Zahoor March 17, 2026

Pokemon card fraud Japan is back in focus after Tokyo police detained Eiji Kouda and two others by March 13. Investigators allege a fake cash bundle was used to obtain three high-value cards worth about JPY 50 million during a June 2024 hotel deal. Kouda denies the allegations. For collectors treating trading cards as alternative assets, this incident shows clear gaps in verification and payment safety. We outline the case, key risks in the collectibles market Japan, and simple steps to reduce loss.