Japan has historically been a cash-first society, but card acceptance has expanded significantly since 2019. The answer in 2025: you still need cash, but less than you'd expect — and strategic planning means you won't need to carry much at once.
Where Cards Are Accepted
Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted at: international hotel chains · department stores (Takashimaya, Isetan) · 7-Eleven, Lawson, FamilyMart · most mid-range and upscale restaurants · tourism-focused shops in major cities · shinkansen tickets at JR machines (Visa/MC accepted)
Where You Still Need Cash
Many traditional restaurants and ramen shops · small local izakaya · vending machines (though some now accept IC card/QR) · taxis (some accept card now, but not all) · temple entrance fees · most kiosks and market stalls · some ryokan · coin lockers at stations (¥300–¥800)
ATMs for Foreign Cards
7-Bank ATMs (inside 7-Eleven, 24 hours): Most reliable for international Visa/Mastercard. English interface. ¥110–¥220 fee per transaction + your bank's foreign fee. Japan Post ATMs (post offices, most open 7-day): Accept international cards. Citibank/SMBC ATMs: More variable — sometimes reject foreign cards. Avoid using Japanese bank ATMs unless they explicitly say "International Cards OK."
How Much Cash to Carry
Withdraw ¥20,000–¥30,000 at a time to minimize ATM fees. For a typical day with mixed spending: carry ¥5,000–¥10,000. For day trips to rural areas or traditional towns (Kyoto's smaller temples, Nara, mountain villages): carry ¥15,000+.
IC Cards (Suica/ICOCA)
Load money onto a Suica card and use it at vending machines, convenience stores, and lockers — this reduces how much physical cash you need for small purchases. It's cashless but not "card" — it's prepaid from ATM cash.
Best Travel Card
Charles Schwab debit card (US) and Wise card are popular with frequent Japan travelers for their low/no foreign transaction fees. Avoid cards with 3%+ foreign fees — that adds up fast over a two-week trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use credit cards in Japan?
Increasingly yes. Major hotels, department stores, chain restaurants, and most tourist-facing businesses accept Visa and Mastercard. However, many smaller restaurants, temple admission desks, local shops, and rural businesses remain cash-only.
How much cash should I carry in Japan?
Keep ¥10,000–15,000 on hand at all times as a buffer. For a day of eating and transit, ¥3,000–5,000 is usually sufficient. Withdraw larger amounts at 7-Eleven ATMs, which accept all major international cards 24/7.
Which ATMs in Japan accept foreign cards?
7-Eleven ATMs (Seven Bank) are the most reliable — 24/7, English interface, accept Visa/Mastercard/Amex/UnionPay. Japan Post ATMs and AEON ATMs also reliably accept international cards. Standard bank ATMs are inconsistent.
Should I exchange currency before visiting Japan?
Exchange rates at 7-Eleven ATMs and Japan Post ATMs are typically better than airport exchange counters or pre-trip exchange at home banks. Exchange a small amount before departure for arrival convenience, then use ATMs for the bulk of your cash needs.