As you prepare for your Japan trip, you’re probably curious about money in Japan, how much yen you might need, and whether or not you’ll be able to use your credit or debit cards as you travel around the country.
Japan is well-known for being a modern country where old-fashioned traditions live on, and this is certainly true when it comes to money matters. Unlike, for example, the USA, where you could go days or even weeks without ever using cash, Japan remains a cash-oriented society.
Not only is the use of cash extremely prevalent, but in many places credit cards are simply not accepted. On top of this, ATM machines that work with non-Japanese credit or debit cards can occasionally be hard to find, particularly in rural areas.
To help you navigate all this, we’ve compiled our top essential tips for dealing with money when traveling to Japan.
Originally written in 2015, this post was updated and republished on May 6, 2026.
Always Have Cash On Hand
As noted above, Japan is very cash-oriented.
In recent years, thanks in part to Japan’s increasing popularity as a destination for travelers from around the world, more and more places — restaurants, taxis, and shops, for example — have begun to accept credit cards.
It varies from establishment to establishment, but generally speaking you can usually use credit cards at hotels (and some ryokans), department stores, and some (but certainly not all) shops and restaurants.
On the other hand, you’ll generally need to use cash at neighborhood restaurants and small izakayas, old-fashioned ramen shops, many (though not all) sushi-ya, local markets like Tsukiji, and more.
As for which credit cards are accepted? While American Express is accepted at some places, you’ll probably have more success overall with cards issued by Visa, Mastercard, JCB, and UnionPay.
Learn more Japanese words and phrases and download our free Japanese Phrasebook.
Despite the trend toward credit cards becoming more widely accepted, it’s safe to say you’ll probably need to use cash at least once or more per day while traveling around Japan.
All of this means you will probably need to carry more cash (in the form of Japanese yen) than you’re probably accustomed to, especially when traveling in the Japanese countryside.
Luckily, it’s a very safe country (one of our favorite things about Japan), and the biggest risk is probably losing or misplacing your cash. Regardless, of course, be smart and take reasonable precautions if carrying large sums of money.
Is Japan Cash-Based?
Japan is still a cash-oriented society, and you’ll need it regularly — especially at neighborhood restaurants, small izakayas, local markets, and anywhere outside the major cities.
Credit cards are becoming more widely accepted, but plenty of places don’t accept them at all. We recommend planning to carry more cash than you’re used to at home, and budget accordingly! More on that below.
Budget Appropriately
As for how much cash to bring and how much to budget for daily expenses while in Japan: unfortunately, this varies too much from person to person due to each person’s own spending and shopping habits to provide a definitive answer.
To give you an idea of how much money you might need, see our handy guide on how much things cost in Japan.
Warning: even if you don’t like shopping, it’s wise to budget a bit extra as Japan is a shopper’s paradise!
Order Yen in Advance
This comes down to personal preference, but many people find it easier to obtain Japanese yen in advance.
You certainly don’t need to get all the yen for your whole trip (there are ATMs in Japan, covered below), but it can be relaxing to arrive in Japan with yen already on hand.
When you land in Tokyo or Osaka, you can exchange currency or seek out an ATM machine, but occasionally there are long lines — and you’ll likely be tired from the journey.
It’s also worth noting that, while some banks and hotels in Japanese cities can exchange currency, it’s not as easy to find currency exchanges in Japan as it is in many other countries.
We normally suggest contacting your local bank: they should either have Japanese yen on hand, or be able to order some for you. We like to get enough to cover our first few days in Japan, to avoid the hassle of having to get cash right after arriving.
After a couple of stress-free days, once you’ve got your bearings in Japan, you can then replenish your supply as needed by finding a foreign-friendly ATM machine to get more yen.
See the latest Japanese yen exchange rates.
Foreign-Friendly ATMs in Japan
ATM machines are not ubiquitous in Japan, and without proper preparation you may find yourself running all over the place in search of an ATM that will let you make a withdrawal with your non-Japanese debit or credit card.
Fortunately, in the cities it’s become much easier to find foreign-friendly ATMs, but in remote and rural areas it can be downright impossible.
There are a few types of ATM machines that usually work with major non-Japanese credit and debit cards, including post office ATMs. However, our favorite tip for finding international-friendly ATM machines is to simply locate a 7-Eleven conbini (convenience store).
You’ll find 7-Elevens in cities and towns throughout the country, and the Seven Bank ATM machines located inside 7-Eleven conbini accept most major foreign credit and debit cards.
In recent years, other convenience stores have also begun adding foreign-friendly ATMs.
Daily Withdrawal Limits
Before you travel, check with your bank about any restrictions or considerations for using your cards internationally. Most banks no longer require advance travel notifications, but they can still offer useful guidance on card use, foreign transactions, and what to do if your card is lost, blocked, or not working during your trip.
We also recommend double-checking your daily withdrawal limits, if any. Since in Japan you will probably be using cash more than you normally do in your home country, it can be nice to know you’ll be able to take out enough Japanese yen if you need it.
Money Well Spent
When it comes to money in Japan, a little preparation makes all the difference. Once you’re there, you can focus on relaxing and enjoying every moment.
We hope you’ve found our tips on cash, currency, credit cards and ATMs in Japan helpful!
Do you have more questions about Japan? Feel free to take a look at our Japan Travel FAQ, answers to the most common questions about Japan.
FAQs
How much cash should I bring to Japan?
It depends on your spending habits and itinerary, so there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. A good rule of thumb is to arrive with enough to cover your first few days comfortably — you can always top up at foreign-friendly ATMs once you’re there. When in doubt, budget a little extra, as Japan is a wonderful place to shop.
Can I use my debit card in Japan?
Yes, though not all ATMs in Japan accept foreign debit cards. Your most reliable options are ATMs at 7-Eleven, Family Mart, and Lawson convenience stores, as well as ATMs associated with JP Bank (the Japan Post Bank). Make sure to check with your bank before you travel, and be aware of your daily withdrawal limits.
Do American credit cards work in Japan?
Yes, though acceptance varies. Visa and Mastercard are your best bet, and American Express is accepted at some places, less reliably. That said, many smaller restaurants, local markets, and cash-only establishments won’t accept any credit cards, so always have yen on hand.
How do I get cash in Japan with a credit or debit card?
The easiest way is to use an ATM at a 7-Eleven, Family Mart, or Lawson convenience store, which are found in cities and towns throughout Japan. JP Bank (Japan Post Bank) ATMs are another reliable option. Just be aware that some ATMs don’t operate 24 hours, so it’s worth arriving in Japan with some yen already on hand.
