In regards to the practices of recruitment agencies, it would depend a lot on the agency itself. Specifically for the japanese contracts, I have just been through all the hoops for the Parc Aviation contract, and they have been absolutely outstanding.
Certainly, they havent charged me a fee for their services, and have most likely spent at least 10000 GBP bringing me to this point. Interviews and sim in Stockholm, 2 Day medical in a top london private hospital. All Accom and flights paid for.....
This is the kind of treatment one would expect from a top shelf consultancy representing a top 10 international airline. By the sounds of the comments leveled against Hawaii and Wasinc, I would give them a miss.