Money Basics — Cash, Cards, and What Actually Works

Japan still relies on cash more than many Americans expect. This guide explains what to prepare.

Card payments are more common in Japan than they used to be, but you will still run into many situations where cash is the safest option. During your first few weeks, keeping cash on hand is the easiest approach.

When cash is still common

Small restaurants, some local shops, and many rent payments are still cash-first. You will also find machines and older businesses that do not reliably accept cards.

Cards that work

Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted where card payments are offered. American Express is accepted less often. Vending machines, small ticket machines, and some neighborhood businesses may still be cash-only.

ATMs that usually work with overseas cards

• 7-Eleven ATMs: usually the easiest option, often 24 hours, often available in English
• Japan Post ATMs: reliable, though some close at night
• Ordinary bank ATMs in Japan often reject foreign cards

IC cards

One of the first tools to get is a transit IC card like Suica or Pasmo. It works for trains and buses, and often for convenience stores as well. In daily life, it functions almost like a digital coin purse.

Places to charge it:

• Ticket machines at stations
• Convenience store registers
• Dedicated charge machines in some stations

Exchange rate note

The dollar-yen rate moves over time, and prices in Japan are not always shown with tax included. Pay attention before assuming the shelf price is the final amount.