😫How much cash should I bring to Japan?

If you run out of cash while traveling to Japan, where can you withdraw cash? Do Visa, Mastercard, or Alipay work? Is Suica really necessary? Don't worry! Below, we'll explain payment methods in detail to help you enjoy your shopping trips!
P.S. See images 1-4 for more details.

[Cash Tips]
🤔If I run out of cash, where can I withdraw cash?
You can withdraw cash directly from ATMs at post offices, train stations, or 7-11s using an international credit card!

Besides withdrawing cash directly from ATMs, there are actually many currency exchange locations. For example, there's usually a Travelex branch after customs at airports. In major cities, look for a Mitsubishi UFJ Bank World Currency Shop. You can also look for nearby coin shops, which often offer foreign currency exchange services.

Of course, it's best to exchange enough Japanese yen before your trip to be on the safe side!

🤔How much cash should I bring?
As a rule of thumb, 5,000-10,000 yen per person per day is generally sufficient. This amount can cover most cash-only activities, such as transportation, attraction tickets, street food, and small souvenirs.

[Credit Cards]
Where can Visa and Mastercard be used?

Large department stores, drugstore chains, brand-name stores, high-end restaurants, and major hotel chains generally accept them. Among credit cards, Visa and Mastercard are definitely the most widely accepted! JCB, a Japanese card, has good acceptance, but not as widespread as the other two. UnionPay, American Express, and Diners Club have a more limited reach.

[Mobile Payment/E-Wallet]
🤔Where can Alipay and WeChat Pay be used?

In tourist areas! For example, they can be used in major drugstore chains, large electronics stores, duty-free shops, and popular attractions like Universal Studios Japan. However, outside of tourist areas, they may not be as widely accepted.

🤔Where can Japanese transportation cards be used? Transportation cards like Suica, Pasmo, and ICOCA not only allow you to ride and tap and go, but you can also use them at convenience stores, vending machines, fast-food chains, and more! Physical cards are generally available at airports and JR stations, and you can also add digital cards directly to your mobile wallet.

🤔Do I need to use Apple Pay, Google Pay, or Samsung Pay?
Essentially, they're just "card wallets" that can be linked to the credit or debit cards mentioned above.

I hope that after reading this article, your concerns about spending in Japan will be dispelled! Save the summary in Figure 6 for your next trip, and enjoy your trip to Japan without any extra preparation! ✨

#Japan #JapanAttractions #Japan'sBestViews #Tokyo #TokyoTravel #Osaka

Post by LocalGuides_HK | Aug 21, 2025

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