Japan has a stronger cash culture than most developed economies — a significant proportion of restaurants, small shops, and traditional establishments still don't accept credit cards. Understanding how to access and manage cash efficiently makes a significant difference to how smoothly your trip runs.
Best ATMs for Foreign Cards
7-Eleven ATMs: The single most reliable option for foreign cards in Japan. Available 24 hours, accept Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and most international cards. Interface available in multiple languages including English. Transaction fees: typically ¥110–¥220 per withdrawal plus your home bank's foreign transaction fee. 7-Eleven stores are everywhere in Japan — finding one is rarely a problem.
Japan Post (JP Bank) ATMs: In post offices and some standalone locations. Accept most international cards and are widespread in rural areas where 7-Eleven density is lower. Limited to business hours at post offices; standalone ATMs are available at odd hours at major locations.
Lawson and FamilyMart ATMs: Work with international cards at most locations. Similar to 7-Eleven in accessibility.
Regular bank ATMs: Avoid for foreign cards. Most Japanese bank ATMs (Mizuho, SMBC, MUFG) explicitly don't accept foreign-issued cards, and those that do have complicated interfaces.
How Much Cash to Carry
Daily budget guidance: budget travellers ¥5,000–¥8,000/day; mid-range travellers ¥15,000–¥25,000/day; comfortable spenders ¥30,000+/day. Withdraw larger amounts less frequently to minimize ATM fees. Having ¥20,000–¥30,000 on hand before arriving in a rural area or heading to a traditional destination is sensible. Most ATMs dispense in ¥10,000 notes; ask for smaller denominations when possible at exchange counters.
IC Cards (Suica/Pasmo)
IC cards (Suica from JR East, Pasmo from Tokyo Metro) are rechargeable prepaid cards used for public transport and accepted for small purchases at convenience stores, vending machines, and many shops. These significantly reduce the need for coins and small bills for daily transactions. Load ¥3,000–¥5,000 initially and top up at station machines. The cards are accepted in most major cities. Foreign credit cards can now link to a digital Suica in some Apple Wallet and Google Wallet implementations — check current availability for your device.
Credit Cards
Card acceptance has improved significantly but is inconsistent. Major department stores, hotels, tourist attractions, and large restaurants reliably accept Visa and Mastercard. Convenience stores, chain restaurants, and increasingly many mid-range establishments accept cards. Small restaurants, family-run shops, local izakaya, street food stalls, and traditional establishments often don't. Rule of thumb: always have enough cash to cover a meal wherever you're going.
Currency Exchange
Airport exchange desks have poor rates. Better options: ATM withdrawals in yen (usually the best effective rate including fees), currency exchange at major post offices (reasonable rates), or authorized exchange bureaus in tourist areas. Avoid hotel exchange desks. Do not exchange money at unofficial street stalls — they don't exist in Japan anyway, but the principle stands.