Is Japan mostly cashless?

Cash-based country For years, Japan was primarily a cash economy. People preferred physical banknotes over cashless transactions. In fact, back in 2021 cashless payments were just 15.1% of total transactions and only rising slowly. Comparatively, in the UK this statistic was 27% in the same year.



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A Few Final Notes and Links While credit cards are become more widely accepted in Japan, cash is still king in Japan. Don't assume that you can use a credit card in small stores, restaurants and accommodations, particularly “mom and pop” places. Always carry sufficient Japanese cash as a backup.

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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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What payment methods are used in Japan? Cash is still a favored method, although the COVID-19 pandemic has boosted the use of digital and contactless payments. Most major credit cards are accepted for purchases in larger stores and restaurants.

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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.

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Assessing the reasons why Japanese consumers prefer cash, Statista notes its security and reliability are highly valued. Over 55 percent of respondents cited concerns over personal information leakage as being a major drawback of cashless options.

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A regular cup of coffee is not the most affordable drink in Japan: coffee shops will charge you around 300-500 yen per cup. (2,5-4 euro). If you need a quick morning or afternoon fix without expecting barista quality, get your coffee in a conbini (????)or convenience store: Lawson, Seven Eleven, Family Mart, Newdays.

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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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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.

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A Line Pay spokesperson agrees that the pandemic has had an impact. “In general, Japan is still a very cash-based society, relative to other markets, which is why people can still get by with cash with nearly all transactions.

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The history of Japanese banknotes started in 1877 (Meiji 10), when the Printing Bureau under the Ministry of Finance, the predecessor to the National Printing Bureau, manufactured Japan's first domestically produced paper money. We have continued to manufacture Japanese banknotes since then.

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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.

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