Safety and Security Guidelines

Safety – Basics

Most local experiences with ZeMott are not only safe but wonderfully life-changing. Your safety while traveling is your own responsibility, and the same applies when using ZeMott. We take your safety seriously.

Carefully review profiles and reviews

When participating in events with a TOMODACHI Host, be sure to carefully check the TOMODACHI Host’s profile. Read their self-introduction and reviews from other users thoroughly, and look through all the information. If you have any concerns, don’t force yourself—look for other options.

Trust your instincts

If you feel even the slightest unease about a person, situation, or profile, stop engaging with them. You don’t need to worry about being rude. Clearly communicate your boundaries and don’t hesitate to assert yourself. If you feel uncomfortable, you can choose to leave the situation or not participate at all. Communicate your intentions clearly and protect yourself. If you’re anxious about being alone with someone, consider participating with family, a couple, or others.

Understand the culture of your destination

Learn about the culture, religion, and precautions of the region you’re visiting in advance. Gender roles and expectations can vary greatly from country to country. The following public organizations that provide safety information can also be helpful:

  • Japan Safe Travel
  • Safety Tips
  • Metropolitan Police Department (link)

Communicate on the official platform

Avoid sharing your phone number or email address with people you’re meeting for the first time. Always communicate through the official website or app. By keeping all interactions on the platform, the Trust & Safety team can respond quickly if problems arise.

Know your limits

Overdoing it with “non-stop partying” can lead to unexpected trouble. Choose activities that match your physical condition and situation.

Leave a review after your experience

Report any troubles or problems

To create a safe and trustworthy community, be sure to report any issues to the management. To protect future users, anonymous reporting is also available if you have safety concerns.

Safety – Tips

Personal Safety Tips

Meeting new people and visiting new places is a wonderful opportunity full of adventure, but it can sometimes be confusing. Here are some points to help you make the best decisions while traveling.

■ Prepare thoroughly in advance

  • Carefully review the profile of the TOMODACHI Host or guest you plan to meet. Choose people who have their real name, profile photo, and self-introduction clearly listed.
  • If you’re participating in an event with a TOMODACHI Host, check the profiles of participants and familiarize yourself with the venue location. Be especially careful in areas you’re unfamiliar with.
  • Read the reviews (ratings) left for that TOMODACHI Host. You can learn about other people’s experiences.
  • Pay attention to “what’s not written” as well. Check for missing information or things you should ask about.
  • Female travelers may feel more comfortable choosing female TOMODACHI Hosts (and vice versa).

■ Value communication

  • Before meeting, communicate using the messaging function on ZeMott (or the platform). Share personal contact information only after meeting and feeling comfortable.
  • Prepare to stay in touch with family and friends at the meeting location. Will you bring a laptop? Will your smartphone work locally?
  • Ask questions freely. This builds mutual reassurance and allows for calm interaction even when meeting for the first time.

For example, try asking questions like:

  • How many hosts (or guests) have you hosted before?
  • Are there any precautions I should take in this area?

If you feel anxious from the initial interaction, look for another TOMODACHI Host.

[Note: Consider adding here: “If you don’t speak English” and providing communication tools]

■ During the actual event with a TOMODACHI Host

  • When you first meet, take some time to talk with the other person. Do you feel comfortable? Is there any discrepancy from the advance information? If you feel uneasy, trust your instincts and act without forcing yourself.
  • If you feel uncomfortable with the other person, politely and frankly communicate the situation and discuss whether it can be resolved.
  • Your senses can become dulled while traveling. Drugs and excessive drinking further impair your judgment. Don’t leave your safety to others—protect yourself.
  • If you encounter a dangerous, threatening, or emergency situation, leave the area immediately and contact local authorities such as police or emergency services. After moving to a safe location, also report to the platform’s safety support contact (all reports are treated anonymously and confidentially).