Cash still plays a major role in Tokyo, although more places accept credit cards now. Travel IC cards such as Suica and PASMO are also common forms of cashless payment.
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You may be surprised at how many places accept cash only, so it's a good idea to bring enough currency or withdraw money when you arrive, especially if traveling with a large group. Most major Japanese banks accept international cards at their ATMs. Post office ATM are another option.
Though you will certainly need some cash, carrying wads of money, which could easily be stolen, lost, or just spent too quickly, is not ideal. There are three main options when it comes to cards in Japan – credit cards, debit cards, or travel money cards.
Cash, credit and debit cards are all accepted, with credit cards and cash the most relevant. Since a credit card is your best choice for a significant amount of your spending, a card that doesn't charge foreign transaction fees like the Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card provides lots of value.
Tipping in Japan is not expected, and attempts to leave a tip will almost certainly be turned down (a potentially awkward moment). In Japan, it's thought that by dining out or drinking at a bar, you are already paying the establishment for good service.
The amount of spending money you'll need for two weeks in Japan depends on several factors. You'll want to budget for accommodations, food, and transportation. Generally speaking, you should plan to spend at least 75,000 - 100,000 JPY (700-900 USD) to cover the basics.
Credit, debit and prepaid cards of international brands are generally accepted throughout the country. There will be instances where stores may not display the symbols of the cards they accept, so ask the salesperson if you can use your card.
Also, it can be difficult to use Japan's public transport system without cash, as you will almost always need it to recharge your IC card or to purchase a train ticket. That being said, I would say you should bring enough cash so that you have at least 10,000 yen of spending money per day.
Overall, a budget traveler can expect to spend around $50 to $100 per day in Japan, while a mid-range traveler can expect to spend around $150 to $250 per day. It's important to plan ahead and research activities and costs to create a budget that works for you.
Paying the bill in JapaneseIt's becoming more common to use card payments in restaurants, but the emajority of independents are still cash only. Another option is to use your Suica or Pasmo to pay, but if you're topping it up as you go, it can be simpler to stick to cash. You can simply ask: English: Is card ok?
Japan is a cash society, but credit cards and debit cards are accepted in most places in Japanese cities. Establishments such as local restaurants, markets and rural inns (ryokans) are cash-only. In the places where you can use your card, you may have issues if your card doesn't have your name on the front.
Payment Options in Japanese SupermarketsThese options usually include cash, credit card, IC cards, point cards, and various “cashless” phone apps (e.g., PayPay, LinePay, etc). However, it is always a good idea to have cash on you in case you end up in a supermarket that does not accept your preferred form of payment.