Credit Cards in Japan | Travel Japan | JNTO (2024)

FAQs

Can tourists use credit cards in Japan? ›

Credit, debit and prepaid cards of international brands are generally accepted throughout the country. There will be instances where stores may not display the symbols of the cards they accept, so ask the salesperson if you can use your card.

Cash is still the most popular payment method in Japan. If you travel to the countryside, it will most likely be your only option. Although cards and other cashless ways of paying are widely accepted in urban areas, you should still keep some old-fashioned cash on you.

Credit cards are accepted for food purchases and for other merchandise at most department stores. You should have no problems using your credit card at these stores. In the areas surrounding train stations you'll be able to use your credit card at most restaurants, and especially at chain restaurants.

The likelihood that credit cards are accepted decreases in small cities and towns, and thus it is advisable to keep cash at hand when visiting rural areas. Cash is often the only way to pay for small entrance fees at tourist sights, smaller restaurants and small shops. Many lockers also require coins.

For example, if you are traveling from the U.S., wait to exchange your dollars for yen until you have arrived in Japan. However, you will get the most favorable rates for yen in Southeast Asian countries rather than in Japan.

When to exchange: Although it depends on the currency, it is generally better to exchange yen in Japan than in your home country, due to a lower commission and better exchange rate. Similarly, you'll typically get better rates away from the major airports.

Having Japanese currency in cash on you at all times is a must for travelers. We also suggest that you make sure to carry smaller denominations of yen. Independent shops and taxis, for example, may not have enough change if you pay with a larger bill.

10,000 yen – Essentially a $100 bill. Present this bill when paying for the whole family to eat.

VISA, VISAELECTRON, PLUS, MasterCard, Maestro, Cirrus, American Express, Diners Club, JCB, and China Unionpay cards can all be used. You will also find Japan Post Bank ATMs in convenience stores.

What cards to bring to Japan? ›

Using credit cards in Japan

Visa, Mastercard, JBC, and UnionPay are the most widely accepted credit cards, and many places in large cities like Tokyo also accept American Express.

IC cards for hassle-free payment in Japan

Rechargeable "smart" cards or IC cards are the most convenient way to pay for trains, buses, and monorail fares in Japan. Vending machines, convenience stores, and chain restaurants also accept IC cards. Two primary types of IC cards are the Suica Card and PASMO.

Cash in the form of coins and notes can be incredibly useful when travelling around Japan, especially in more rural areas. While major cities like Tokyo and Osaka accept foreign cards, most establishments around Japan (including accommodations, restaurants, and shopping centres) prefer cash.

In Japan, it's not common to tip for services such as those provided in bars, cafes, restaurants, taxis, and hotels. However, there is a custom in Japan of giving a gratuity, called ""kokorozuke"", (coming from the heart), in some situations. There are certain situations where tipping might be considered appropriate.

While credit cards can generally be used in major city taxis, cash might be your only option in countryside cabs.

JCB cards are widely accepted both domestically and internationally. Visa cards, issued by banks and financial organizations worldwide, are widely accepted in Japan, allowing users to make purchases, payments, and withdrawals at banks and ATMs. Mastercard, like Visa, is a widely recognized payment option in Japan.

Having a travel card is always handy for trips overseas, as it means you have access to money 24/7. If you are visiting major cities in Japan that largely accept card payments, such as Tokyo and Osaka, having exchange currency stored in a card will help you feel more secure during your travels.

But just take a look when you're next at the convenience store. The payment options available are enough to make you do a double take. Not only are the main culprits accepted: cash, credit, debit card, but there are so many other options, many of which you may have only seen once or twice before.