Bringing cash to Japan is still a good idea — even in 2025.
While Japan is becoming more card-friendly, cash is still king in many everyday situations, especially in smaller towns, local restaurants, temples, and older establishments.
Here’s a practical guide to how much cash you might want to bring 💴:
✈️ Arrival Day: ¥10,000–¥15,000 ($65–$100 USD)
Enough for train tickets, a meal, snacks, and some cushion for anything unexpected. You’ll likely use this at airport kiosks or transit.
🍜 Daily Spending: ¥5,000–¥10,000/day ($35–$70 USD)
This covers:
- meals at casual restaurants
- train or subway fares
- convenience store items (snacks, water, toiletries)
- small entrance fees (temples, museums)
- souvenirs from local shops
For a 10-day trip, that’s around ¥50,000–¥100,000 ($350–$700).
🏨 Accommodations & Big Purchases
Hotels and department stores usually accept credit cards. You don’t need cash for those unless you’re staying in a very traditional inn (ryokan), which sometimes prefers cash.
📍Places Where You Need Cash
- Small ramen shops and izakayas
- Vending machines in rural areas
- Coin lockers in stations
- Public baths (onsen)
- Local markets
- Shrine/temple donations or omamori charms
💳 Card & ATM Tips
- Bring a debit/credit card that works internationally (VISA and Mastercard are best).
- 7-Eleven and Japan Post ATMs are the most reliable for foreign cards.
- Avoid exchanging money at the airport — rates are better at ATMs or local currency exchanges.
🌸 Good Rule of Thumb
Bring around ¥60,000–¥100,000 in cash (~$400–$700 USD) for a 7–10 day trip.
It gives you flexibility, avoids constant ATM runs, and ensures you’re covered in rural spots.
🍵 Bonus Tip
Use a small coin purse — you’ll get lots of change, and coins go up to ¥500 (around $3.30), so they add up quickly!
A little cash brings a lot of peace of mind in Japan — and lets you enjoy your trip without always checking if a place takes cards.
