“Japan is high-tech — surely you can pay with a card everywhere, right?”
Actually, not quite.
I live in Japan, and for daily life I rarely use cash. Convenience stores, supermarkets — a quick tap of my phone and I’m done. It’s a convenient country.
But the moment I travel, something changes. “Cash only” pops up more often than you’d expect.
Here’s the real story on how money works in Japan.
Daily Life is Cashless. Tourist Spots, Not So Much.
In major Japanese cities like Tokyo and Osaka, cashless payment is widely adopted.
Places where cashless works fine:
- Convenience stores (7-Eleven, FamilyMart, Lawson)
- Supermarkets and major chains
- Train stations
- Hotels
- Department stores
- Cafés and family restaurants
But cash is often needed at:
- Small local restaurants and izakaya
- Shrines and temples (entry fees and offerings)
- Street stalls and local markets
- Older ryokan and onsen
- Some taxis
- Souvenir shops in tourist areas
In other words — the more authentic the experience, the more likely you’ll need cash.
But Don’t Worry — Cash is Easy to Get
“So should I bring tons of cash?” — no need to stress.
Most convenience stores in Japan have ATMs, and they accept international cards without issue.
The best option is 7-Eleven ATMs (Seven Bank ATM):
- Accepts most international cards (VISA, Mastercard, JCB, AMEX, Union Pay, etc.)
- Available almost 24/7
- English interface
- Found at every 7-Eleven in the country
Just remember: “When in doubt, find a 7-Eleven.” That alone makes travelling in Japan stress-free.
How Much Cash Should You Carry?
A good rule of thumb: ¥10,000–15,000 (about $70–100) per day in cash.
This covers
- Meals at small restaurants
- Temple and shrine entry fees
- Souvenirs
- Unexpected transport costs
That’s enough for almost everything.
Cashless Options for Tourists
There are two main cashless options tourists actually use in Japan.
Suica / Pasmo (IC Cards)
Originally designed for trains and buses, but accepted at many convenience stores, restaurants, and shops as well.
If you want to keep things simple — one card for transport AND shopping — this is ideal. No extra apps needed.
How to get a Suica:
- Physical card: Available at JR ticket machines and offices. ¥500 deposit + your chosen top-up amount. The deposit is refundable when you return the card.
- Welcome Suica: Designed for tourists. No deposit, valid for 28 days. Available at Narita, Haneda airports, and major stations.
- Mobile Suica: Add it to your iPhone’s Wallet app, or Android (Felica-compatible). No physical card, top up directly from your phone.
For travellers who want the smoothest experience, Mobile Suica is the way to go. Set it up before you land, and you can ride straight from the airport to the city.
PayPay
PayPay is currently the most widely used cashless payment in Japan.
What’s surprising is that PayPay often works at small shops where credit cards don’t. Local izakaya, family-run cafés, neighbourhood shops — places marked “cash only” often actually accept PayPay.
However, signing up for PayPay requires a Japanese phone number and bank account, so it’s hard for tourists to use. For short trips, Suica is simpler. For longer stays or if you have friends in Japan who can help, it’s worth considering.
A Note on Money Etiquette
In Japan, money is rarely handed directly from one person to another.
You’ll notice a small tray on most counters. That’s where you place your cash. Your change comes back on the same tray.
It might feel strange at first, but it’s based on
- Respect for handling money carefully
- Easier counting
- Avoiding direct contact
When in Rome (or in this case, Japan) — go with the local way.
The Short Version
- City life is cashless-friendly
- Tourist spots and small shops need cash
- Carry ¥10,000–15,000 per day to be safe
- 7-Eleven ATMs make cash easy
- Suica (or Mobile Suica) keeps transport and shopping smooth
You might worry: “What if I bring too much cash and can’t use it all?” Don’t worry. Japan’s beautiful places, incredible food, and adorable souvenirs will make sure that cash disappears faster than you think 😊
Got questions about money in Japan? Leave a comment below!
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