Travel money in Japan: Best cards, ATMs & cash tips
Japan is a cash-first society despite its tech reputation. Know which cards work, where to find fee-free ATMs, and how to handle cash-heavy transactions.
Overview
Japan presents a unique money challenge for travelers. Despite being one of the world's most technologically advanced countries, cash remains king for many daily transactions — especially at small restaurants, local shops, temples, and rural areas. Credit cards are widely accepted in cities, hotels, and chain stores, but you'll need cash more often than you expect. Convenience store ATMs (7-Eleven, FamilyMart, Lawson) are your best friend, and IC cards (Suica/Pasmo) bridge the gap for transit and small purchases. The key to Japan: carry a mix of cash and a reliable multi-currency card.
Best card combination for Japan
Wise multi-currency card (load JPY in advance at mid-market rate)
Travel credit card with no foreign transaction fees for large purchases
Wise gives you mid-market JPY rates and works at 7-Eleven ATMs. A backup credit card handles hotel deposits and department store purchases. Pre-load JPY when rates are favorable and use the Wise card for ATM withdrawals + daily spending where cards are accepted.
Card acceptance
Card acceptance is improving but uneven. Major hotels, department stores, chain restaurants, and konbini (convenience stores) accept cards universally. However, many small restaurants (especially ramen shops and izakaya), local markets, temple/shrine entrance fees, and rural accommodations remain cash-only. Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto have the best card coverage; rural Japan requires more cash. Always carry ¥10,000-20,000 in cash as backup.
ATM tips
7-Eleven ATMs are the most foreign-card-friendly and found everywhere. Japan Post Bank ATMs also work well. Avoid ATMs inside banks (limited hours, often reject foreign cards). 7-Eleven ATMs are open 24/7 and charge ¥110-220 per withdrawal. Withdraw larger amounts (¥30,000-50,000) to minimize per-use fees. Wise and Revolut debit cards work reliably. Warning: Many ATMs in Japan don't accept foreign cards outside 7-Eleven and Japan Post.
Cash culture
Strong cash culture. Many salarymen carry ¥30,000+ in cash. Exact change is appreciated. Use the small tray at counters to place cash (never hand directly to cashier at small shops). Coins are actually useful — ¥500 coins are worth ~$3.50, so don't dismiss them.
Tipping
No tipping culture. Tipping can be seen as rude or confusing. Exceptional service is the standard, not an extra. The only exception: high-end ryokan (traditional inns) where a tip in an envelope for your personal attendant (nakai-san) is acceptable.
Typical costs
Prices are approximate and based on mid-2026 data. Actual costs vary by season, location, and exchange rates. Always check current rates with your card provider.
Top money tips for Japan
Frequently asked questions
How much cash should I bring to Japan?
Arrive with ¥20,000-30,000 in cash (exchange before travel or withdraw at airport ATM). You'll use cards for hotels, department stores, and chain restaurants, but need cash for smaller restaurants, temples, local transport, and rural areas. Budget ¥3,000-5,000/day in cash for meals and incidentals.
Does Apple Pay work in Japan?
Yes but limited. Apple Pay works at major chains (convenience stores, supermarkets, some department stores) when linked to a Suica card in Wallet. For general contactless payments, Japan uses its own system (iD/QUICPay) which some foreign cards support. Better to rely on physical card + cash + IC card.
Can I use my Wise card at Japanese ATMs?
Yes, Wise cards work at 7-Eleven ATMs across Japan. Load JPY in your Wise account before traveling to lock in the mid-market rate and avoid conversion fees at the ATM. Withdrawals are free up to £200/month equivalent, then a small fee applies.
Last updated: 2026-07-11. Exchange rates, fees, and acceptance patterns change. Always verify with your card provider and check local conditions before traveling.