How do tourists pay in Japan?

Even though Japan is a cash-centric country, credit cards are usually accepted in most shops, restaurants and taxis in major cities. The weather in Japan can vary wildly depending on where you are traveling to. Find out the best times to visit and what to pack.



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You shouldn't have a problem paying admission at major attractions by card. Large tourist attractions within Japan will always accept credit cards, but places like shrines, temples, and off-the-beaten-track locations are usually cash-only.

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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 provides lots of value.

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For example, if you are traveling from the U.S., wait to exchange your dollars for yen until you have arrived in Japan. However, you will get the most favorable rates for yen in Southeast Asian countries rather than in Japan.

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The likelihood that credit cards are accepted decreases in small cities and towns, and thus it is advisable to keep cash at hand when visiting rural areas. Cash is often the only way to pay for small entrance fees at tourist sights, smaller restaurants and small shops. Many lockers also require coins.

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In Japan, you'll use a Suica (or Icoca) card for local transport and most small purchases, and a credit card for big purchases (hotels etc). But you still need Japanese cash for places that don't take cards.

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Though use of credit cards and e-currency has increased in recent years, Japan is still largely a cash-based society. The national currency of Japan is the Japanese Yen (¥). It's best to get some cash converted before you leave home so you have change handy to catch the train to your destination once you arrive.

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Bills come in 1,000 yen, 2,000 yen (very rare), 5,000 yen and 10,000 yen denominations. Coins come in 1 yen, 5 yen, 10 yen, 50 yen, 100 yen and 500 yen denominations. Foreign currencies are not accepted for payments in Japan, except perhaps at major international airports.

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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.

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A standard fee for a one-way Tokyo to Kyoto ticket is around 160 USD during peak seasons and 100-120 USD off peak, although the price heavily depends on such factor as what travel class you prefer or do you purchase a ticket with reserved or unreserved seats.

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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.

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Paying the bill in Japanese It'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?

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Most phones purchased as unlocked in the USA or any other country will work in Japan. Those purchased under contract with a local carrier such as T-Mobile, AT&T, or others will not work unless you have an international plan which can be very expensive. Does T-mobile work in Japan?

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