Why do I have to show my passport when I check-in at the hotel?
From April 1st, 2005 and in accordance with a Japanese Government (Health, Labor and Welfare Ministry) instruction, all non-Japanese guests who are not residents of Japan, when registering at a hotel or inn are required to show their passports for identification.  The hotel is required to maintain copies.
Comments:

1.  I recommend to check your passport when they return the passport to you to verify that they have returned the correct passport.

2.  If you reside in Japan, technically you do not have to show your passport or alien registration card/visa.  Some places do not know the law and are requesting to see them.  For me it is no big deal, so I just show them.  By law, the only people authorized to request your ARC is the police inside of a koban or police station.

3.  I recommend to leave the name of the next hotel/inn when registering with the hotel in case your passport or other belongings are found.
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