Japan is no longer a "cash-only" country, but it’s not yet 100% cashless. To ensure a smooth trip, here is what you need to know about navigating payments in Japan.
1. Cash (Japanese Yen / JPY)
While digital payments are everywhere, Cash is still King in specific situations.
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Where you need it: Local temples/shrines (for charms and amulets), small family-run restaurants, traditional "Gashapon" machines, and some shops in rural areas.
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Tip: Always carry a mix of 1,000 yen notes and coins (100 yen / 500 yen). 10,000 yen notes are sometimes hard to use at small vending machines or bus fare boxes.
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Withdrawal: The most reliable way to get cash is at 7-Eleven (7-Bank) or Lawson ATMs. They accept most international debit/credit cards and have English menus.
2. Credit & Debit Cards
Accepted at major hotels, department stores, convenience stores (Conbini), and most restaurants in cities.
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Major Brands: Visa, Mastercard, and American Express are widely accepted. JCB is Japan's local brand but is highly compatible with international cards.
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Important Note: Some smaller shops may have a "minimum spend" for card use, though this is becoming rarer. Always look for the card brand logos at the entrance or near the register.
3. IC Cards (Suica, PASMO, ICOCA)
These are rechargeable "tap-and-go" cards originally for trains, but they are now the most convenient way to pay for small daily purchases.
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Where to use: Trains, buses, convenience stores, vending machines, and even some coin lockers.
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Mobile Versions (Highly Recommended): You can add Suica or PASMO to your Apple Wallet or Google Pay. This allows you to top up using your credit card on your phone, bypassing the need to find a physical machine.
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Warning: Physical card sales (like the regular Suica) are sometimes restricted due to chip shortages. Check for the "Welcome Suica" or "PASMO PASSPORT" (tourist-only cards) if you prefer a physical card.
4. QR Code Payments
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PayPay: This is the most dominant QR payment in Japan. You will see the red logo everywhere, even in tiny stalls.
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International Compatibility: Good news! If you use Alipay (China) or Kakao Pay (Korea), you can often scan the PayPay QR code to pay directly. Other Western QR services are still less common.
Summary of Tips for Travelers
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The "Hybrid" Strategy: Use your Phone (Apple Pay/Google Pay Suica) for transport and convenience stores, your Credit Card for big meals/shopping, and keep 10,000–20,000 yen in cash for emergencies and local gems.
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Tell your Bank: Before flying to Japan, notify your bank that you’ll be traveling to avoid your card being blocked for "suspicious activity."
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Coin Management: Japanese coins are high-value (the 500 yen coin is worth about $3.50/€3). Use them up at airport convenience stores before you leave, as you cannot exchange them back to your local currency at banks.
Useful Phrases at the Register
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"Card, please." → Kado de onegaishimasu.
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"Can I use Suica?" → Suica wa tsukaemasuka?
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"Cash only?" → Genkin nomi desuka?
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