Currency and payment methods in Japan

Learn how to pay for travel in Japan with cash, credit cards, transport IC cards and cash machines, including where cards may be accepted and how to withdraw cash.

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  • Before you go
  • Payments and money

The main payment methods in Japan are cash and cards. Based on official guidance from JNTO, this page explains where credit cards, cash withdrawal facilities and transport IC cards can be used, with links to related pages on this site. Japan’s currency is the yen.

Key points

  • Credit, debit and prepaid cards: JNTO states that internationally branded cards can generally be used throughout Japan.
  • Shops do not always display accepted cards: If unsure, ask the staff directly.
  • Shinkansen and Narita Express fares can be paid by card; short-distance train and subway fares may not accept cards.
  • Cash withdrawals: Cash is available from ATMs operated by Japan Post Bank and Seven Bank.
  • Transport IC cards: Suica and Pasmo can be used on various types of transport, in convenience stores and in a growing number of shops and restaurants.
  • Lost credit card: Contact the card issuer directly. JNTO suggests keeping a separate record of the issuer’s toll-free phone number, away from the card.

Credit cards

According to JNTO’s official guidance:

  • Internationally branded credit, debit and prepaid cards can generally be used in Japan.
  • Some shops do not display logos showing accepted cards; ask staff directly whether card payment is available.
  • Shinkansen (JR) and Narita Express (JR) fares can be paid by card, but short-distance train or subway fares may not accept cards.

Cash withdrawals

  • Official guidance states that cash can be withdrawn from Japan Post Bank and Seven Bank ATMs.
  • Check with your card-issuing bank about eligible cards and withdrawal fees.

Transport IC cards

If you prefer not to carry too much cash, you can purchase Suica or Pasmo:

  • They are not limited to trains: they can also be used on various types of transport, in convenience stores and in an increasing number of shops and restaurants.
  • JNTO notes that they are not accepted everywhere, but can serve as an alternative to cash.
  • Fukuoka has a subway IC card called Hayakaken (). See Suica and transport IC cards for details.
  • Welcome Suica can be topped up only with yen cash; credit cards cannot be used to add value, and remaining balances are non-refundable. See the same page for details.

Practical reminders

  • Keep some yen cash in your luggage as a backup when travelling to several regions.
  • For small transport payments around Fukuoka City, use an IC card or cash.
  • The tax-free shopping system switches to refunds at departure from 1 November 2026. See Tax-free shopping and departure tax.

Frequently asked questions

Can you use only credit cards in Japan?

JNTO says internationally branded cards are generally accepted, but some shops may not take them and short-distance train and subway fares may not accept cards either. Carrying some cash or an IC card is recommended.

Where can you withdraw cash?

At Japan Post Bank and Seven Bank ATMs, according to official guidance.

Further reading

Sources