Quick answer: bring both. Cards and IC cards now work almost everywhere in cities, but carry roughly ¥10,000–20,000 in cash as backup — some places still won’t take anything else.
What’s changed: Japan’s cashless payment ratio hit a record 58% in 2025 (under Japan’s new domestic-based metric; about 46% under the old international-comparison method), and the government is targeting 65% by 2030. Of all cashless spending, credit cards make up 82.7%, QR-code apps like PayPay 10.2%, and e-money (Suica-type) just 3.7% and shrinking as QR payment takes share.
Card is king at:
- Convenience stores (7-Eleven, Lawson, FamilyMart)
- Department stores, chain restaurants, hotels
- Most attractions and train ticket machines in big cities
Cash still rules at:
- Small family-run restaurants and izakaya, especially outside major cities
- Shrine and temple offering boxes and omikuji fortune slips
- Coin laundromats and some rural inns/ryokan
- IC card (Suica/Pasmo) top-up machines — many only take cash
Practical tip: 7-Eleven ATMs accept foreign-issued Visa, Mastercard, UnionPay, and most overseas debit cards, and they’re open 24/7 — one of the most reliable ways to get yen in cash if you run out.
FAQ
- Should I exchange money before arrival or withdraw in Japan? Rates at 7-Eleven/post office ATMs are usually better than airport currency exchange counters — withdraw what you need after landing.
- Is Apple Pay / Google Pay accepted widely? Yes at most card terminals in cities, but it’s still worth carrying a physical card as backup at smaller shops.
- Do I need a PIN for my card? Yes — some Japanese terminals require chip + PIN rather than signature, so make sure you know your card’s PIN before you travel.
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