Cash or Card in Japan 2026? A Tourist's Practical Guide
Updated June 2026 · 5 min read
Japan has long had a reputation as a cash-heavy society, and while cashless payment has grown rapidly, cash remains essential for many situations. Here's what you actually need to know before your trip.
1. The Reality in 2026
Japan has made significant progress toward cashless payment, but cash is still required in many places — especially smaller restaurants, local shops, rural areas, and temple/shrine entrance fees. A reasonable rule of thumb: carry ¥10,000–20,000 in cash at all times, and use your IC card or credit card where accepted.
✅ Cards widely accepted
- Department stores
- Large chain restaurants
- Hotels
- Convenience stores
- Major tourist attractions
- Pharmacies (drugstores)
💴 Cash often needed
- Small local restaurants
- Ramen & noodle shops
- Market stalls & street food
- Shrines & temple entry fees
- Rural buses
- Some coin lockers
2. Where to Withdraw Yen
Not all ATMs in Japan accept foreign cards. The most reliable options are:
- 7-Eleven ATMs (Seven Bank): Accept virtually all foreign Visa, Mastercard, and Maestro cards. Available 24/7. English interface. These are the most reliable option for tourists.
- Japan Post ATMs: Located at post offices nationwide. Accept foreign cards. Hours vary by branch.
- Citibank ATMs: Limited locations but widely compatible with foreign cards.
- Avoid: Regular bank ATMs (Mizuho, MUFG, SMBC) often do not accept foreign cards, or charge high fees.
3. Which Cards Work Best
- Visa and Mastercard are the most widely accepted. Look for the card logo at checkout.
- American Express is accepted at larger establishments but less common at smaller shops.
- IC cards (Suica/Pasmo) function like debit cards at convenience stores, vending machines, and some restaurants — preload cash and tap to pay.
- Wise, Revolut, or similar travel cards offer good exchange rates with low fees — highly recommended for cash withdrawals at 7-Eleven ATMs.
FAQ
How much cash should I bring to Japan?
Plan on ¥10,000–15,000 per day as a safe buffer. For a 10-day trip, having ¥50,000–100,000 accessible (via withdrawal or pre-exchanged) is reasonable. Don't exchange at the airport or your home country if possible — 7-Eleven ATMs with a Wise or Revolut card give near-market rates.
Is tipping customary in Japan?
No — tipping is not expected and can even cause confusion or discomfort. Service charge is included in restaurant bills. For exceptional service at a ryokan, a small gift (rather than cash) is the traditional gesture. See our Tipping in Japan guide for full details.
Can I use Apple Pay or Google Pay in Japan?
Yes, increasingly so — especially at convenience stores, chain restaurants, and department stores. Some IC card readers also accept mobile payments. However, not all terminals support it, so always have cash as backup.