How to Access Cash and Use Credit Cards in Japan: Complete 2025 Travel Guide
Japan is famous for its rich culture, technology, and world-class hospitality—but it’s also a country where cash still plays a major role, especially outside major cities. If you’re planning a trip to Japan in 2025, understanding how to access cash and use your credit or debit cards will save you stress, time, and money.
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Table of Contents
- Overview: Is Japan a Cash-Based Society?
- What Currency Is Used in Japan?
- Should You Bring Cash to Japan?
- Where to Exchange Money in Japan
- Using ATMs in Japan: What You Need to Know
- Best ATMs for Foreign Cards in Japan
- Can You Use Credit Cards in Japan?
- Where Credit Cards Are Accepted (and Not)
- Best Credit Cards for Japan Travel
- Using Debit Cards and Prepaid Cards
- Mobile Payment Options (Suica, PASMO, PayPay, etc.)
- Tips for Budgeting and Daily Spending
- Avoiding Foreign Transaction Fees
- Common Money Mistakes Tourists Make
- Safety Tips for Carrying and Using Cash
- FAQs About Cash and Cards in Japan
- Final Recommendations
1. Overview: Is Japan a Cash-Based Society?
While Japan is modern in many ways, cash remains king—especially in rural areas, traditional inns (ryokan), small eateries, local temples, and festivals. That said, urban centers like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto are rapidly embracing cashless payments in convenience stores, department stores, and transportation.
In 2025, travelers should still plan to carry a mix of cash and cards for convenience and coverage.
2. What Currency Is Used in Japan?
The official currency is the Japanese Yen (JPY). Coins come in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 50, 100, and 500 yen. Banknotes are available in 1,000, 2,000 (rare), 5,000, and 10,000 yen bills.
As of early 2025, the exchange rate is approximately 1 USD = 145 JPY (subject to change).
3. Should You Bring Cash to Japan?
Yes, bring some cash with you, especially if you arrive late at night when exchange counters or ATMs may be closed. ¥10,000 to ¥30,000 is a good amount to start with.
Avoid carrying too much, though—Japan is safe, but losing a large amount of yen can still ruin your trip4. Where to Exchange Money in Japan
You can exchange foreign currency at:
- Major airports (Narita, Haneda, Kansai, etc.)
- Large banks
- Authorized money changers
- Some hotels
- Post offices (limited services)
Airport kiosks are convenient but may offer lower rates. Compare rates if possible.
5. Using ATMs in Japan: What You Need to Know
Not all Japanese ATMs accept foreign cards. Avoid bank ATMs that are strictly domestic.
Make sure your card is enabled for international withdrawals, and check with your home bank for any daily limits or foreign fees.
Use ATMs that display these signs:
- PLUS
- Cirrus
- Visa
- Mastercard
- Maestro
6. Best ATMs for Foreign Cards in Japan
These ATM networks are reliable for international travelers:
- 7-Eleven ATMs: Available 24/7 and widely located
- Japan Post Bank (JP Bank): Found in post offices
- FamilyMart and Lawson ATMs: Many now support foreign cards
- Aeon Bank ATMs: Often found in malls
Always withdraw during business hours in case of errors.
7. Can You Use Credit Cards in Japan?
Yes, but not everywhere. Credit cards are commonly accepted at:
- Hotels
- Department stores
- Supermarkets
- Airports
- Chain restaurants and cafes
- Train stations and major attractions
But cards may not be accepted at:
- Smaller shops or food stalls
- Local markets
- Public bathhouses (onsen)
- Shrines and temples
8. Where Credit Cards Are Accepted (and Not)
Cards are more widely accepted in Tokyo, Osaka, and other big cities. Visa and Mastercard are the most widely accepted, followed by American Express and JCB.
Always carry some cash for:
- Taxis in rural areas
- Street food vendors
- Local transport not covered by IC cards
9. Best Credit Cards for Japan Travel
Choose travel-friendly cards with:
- No foreign transaction fees
- Good currency exchange rates
- Rewards on travel spending
Popular travel cards:
- Chase Sapphire Preferred/Reserve
- American Express Gold or Platinum
- Capital One Venture
- Revolut or Wise multi-currency cards
10. Using Debit Cards and Prepaid Cards
Many debit cards work at ATMs but may not work for purchases in some stores.
Consider prepaid travel cards:
- Suica or PASMO IC cards for trains and small purchases
- Prepaid Visa/Mastercard for general use (buy at airports or convenience stores)
11. Mobile Payment Options (Suica, PASMO, PayPay, etc.)
Japan is going increasingly mobile:
- Suica/PASMO: Transport + store payments
- PayPay: Popular QR code app in cafes and shops
- Rakuten Pay, Line Pay: Widely accepted in stores
You can register these apps with foreign cards in some cases, especially if you have Apple Pay or Google Pay.
12. Tips for Budgeting and Daily Spending
- Breakfast: ¥500–¥1,000
- Lunch: ¥800–¥1,500
- Dinner: ¥1,500–¥3,000
- Transit/day: ¥600–¥1,200
- Attraction fees/day: ¥500–¥2,000
Cash is preferred for day-to-day expenses, but using cards for hotel and shopping helps minimize the need for large cash withdrawals.
13. Avoiding Foreign Transaction Fees
- Use cards with 0% foreign transaction fees
- Withdraw larger amounts to minimize ATM charges
- Convert currency only when needed
- Avoid Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC) at point-of-sale terminals
14. Common Money Mistakes Tourists Make
- Relying only on cards
- Not notifying your bank about travel
- Ignoring ATM fees or limits
- Assuming every store accepts Suica or PayPay
- Exchanging money at poor rates at hotels
15. Safety Tips for Carrying and Using Cash
- Japan is safe, but use a money belt or inside pocket
- Don’t flash large amounts of cash
- Avoid using outdoor ATMs late at night
- Keep some emergency cash in a separate location
16. FAQs About Cash and Cards in Japan
Q: Do taxis in Japan accept credit cards?
In cities, yes. In rural areas, not always. IC cards often accepted.
Q: What is the daily ATM withdrawal limit in Japan?
Usually ¥50,000 to ¥100,000, but may be lower depending on your home bank.
Q: Can I use Apple Pay or Google Pay in Japan?
Yes, especially with Suica, PASMO, and PayPay integration.
Q: Should I exchange money at home or in Japan?
Rates are often better in Japan, but bring some yen to start.
17. Final Recommendations
- Always carry a mix of cash and cards
- Use 7-Eleven and Japan Post ATMs for foreign cards
- Check if your card has fees or limitations before traveling
- Use mobile payments and IC cards for transit and convenience stores
- Avoid over-relying on cards in rural or traditional settings
Plan ahead, and you’ll have a smooth experience navigating money in Japan.
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