When you’re planning your Tokyo adventure, one of the biggest questions is whether to rely on bills or plastic. When you’re figuring out Japan cash or card payments, you might be surprised to learn Tokyo’s streets still hum with the jingle of yen coins, and nine out of ten locals reach for bills in their daily shopping. In this ultimate guide, I’ll walk you through when to use cash, when to tap your card, and how digital wallets can streamline your journey. By the end, you’ll have a clear payment strategy that helps you avoid fees, save time, and enjoy Tokyo without hiccups.
Understand payment landscape
Cash still dominates Japan’s payment scene. In 2023, roughly 61 percent of all spending in Japan was made in bills and coins, while credit and debit cards together accounted for 34 percent, and mobile payments and IC (integrated circuit) cards trailed behind at 3 and 2 percent respectively (Discover Japan Now).
| Payment method | Share of transactions |
|---|---|
| Cash | 61% |
| Credit & debit cards | 34% |
| Mobile payments | 3% |
| IC cards (Suica, Pasmo) | 2% |
Locals trust cash for its speed and privacy. Over 55 percent of consumers worry about data leaks or fraud when they go cashless (Cash Matters). On the flip side, Japan led the way in mobile pay back in 2004 with the FeliCa chip, and credit card issuance topped 290 million in 2020 (Cash Matters). So how do you pick the right mix for your trip?
Carry cash securely
Where to withdraw yen
- Convenience store ATMs at 7-Eleven, Lawson, and FamilyMart
- Japan Post Bank machines in post offices
- Major bank ATMs in urban branches
- Preordering yen from your home bank
Most convenience store machines accept international cards, but double-check your network compatibility before you travel. For details on store options and ATM locations, see our convenience store guide.
Tips for handling coins
Yen coins come in 1, 5, 10, 50, 100, and 500 denominations. A small coin pouch keeps change organized and speeds up transactions. In Japan it’s polite to hand over bills neatly folded, so skip the crumpled notes.
Use cards in Tokyo
Credit and debit cards work smoothly at upscale hotels, department stores, and many restaurants. The most widely accepted brands are Visa, Mastercard, and JCB (Japan National Tourism Organization). Cards shine when:
- Booking hotels or ryokan online
- Shopping in big department stores like Mitsukoshi or Takashimaya
- Dining at large chain restaurants or urban cafés
- Reserving tours and experiences in advance
When you shop tax-free, remember to follow the tax refund process. Not sure how to ask “Do you take credit cards?” in Japanese? Learn key Japanese phrases for travelers to order and pay with confidence.
Try contactless payments
Mobile wallets and tap-and-go tech are growing fast. Apps like PayPay, LinePay, Rakuten Pay, and MerPay let you pay by QR code or phone tap (Japan National Tourism Organization). Here’s what to expect:
- A 50 percent jump in QR code payments to 7.9 trillion yen in 2022 (KOMOJU)
- Government cashback of 2–5 percent at small shops when you go cashless (PaymentsJournal)
- FeliCa-compatible NFC for fast taps—confirm your device supports Japan’s standard
- Suica and Pasmo e-money cards for trains, buses, and vending machines
Contactless is instant, but acceptance can vary outside major hubs. Always keep a backup card or some yen handy.
Find ATMs and exchangers
ATM hotspots
- 7-Eleven (24/7, international support)
- Lawson and FamilyMart (varying hours; check before you go)
- Japan Post Bank (long service hours)
- Bank branches in Tokyo center
Currency exchange tips
Airport counters are convenient but often have lower rates. For better value, compare rates at city bank branches or order currency online before you fly. Always factor in service fees when you calculate your costs.
Compare payment fees
| Method | Acceptance | Fees | Speed | Convenience |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cash | Universal | Low | Instant | No setup required |
| Credit/debit cards | High in cities | 1–3% foreign transaction | Medium | Trusted everywhere |
| Mobile wallets | Growing | Usually free | Instant | App installation |
| IC cards (Suica etc) | High for transit | Deposit + reload fee | Instant | Preload required |
Withdrawing larger sums cuts down on ATM fees. If your bank charges a foreign transaction fee, it often makes sense to use cash for everyday buys and reserve cards for big purchases.
Plan rural payment needs
Past Tokyo’s neon lights, cash is still king. Local inns, markets, and temples often only accept bills. To avoid a scramble:
- Top up your yen before you leave the city
- Check ATM access in smaller towns
- Carry enough cash for meals, local buses, and souvenirs
- Alert your bank you’ll be traveling in rural areas
This planning ensures you won’t get stuck without cash when the nearest ATM is miles away.
In Tokyo and beyond, mastering Japan’s mix of cash and card will have you breezing through checkout with confidence. Try a new payment option on your next outing and let me know how it goes. If you’ve found a nifty trick for saving on fees or uncovering hidden ATMs, share it in the comments below so fellow travelers can benefit.
Answer common traveler questions
-
Can I use my foreign credit card everywhere in Tokyo?
Major hotels, department stores, and chain restaurants usually accept Visa, Mastercard, or JCB. Smaller shops might stay cash-only. -
How much cash should I carry per day?
For Tokyo, budgeting around ¥5,000–¥10,000 daily covers meals, transport, and small purchases. Adjust if you plan rural day trips. -
Are there any ATMs that don’t accept international cards?
Bank ATMs inside some banks may reject foreign cards after business hours. Stick to 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, or Japan Post Bank for reliable 24/7 access. -
Is it better to use mobile payments over cards?
Mobile apps can earn you cashback and are instant. But coverage varies—keep a backup card or cash for smaller vendors. -
What if I run out of cash in a rural area?
Look for the nearest convenience store or post office ATM, or plan ahead by topping up before you go off the beaten path.
