[2025 Updated] First-Time Travelers’ Guide to Japan — How to Use Cash and Cashless Payments

As digital payments continue to spread worldwide, Japan’s transition to a cashless society is also steadily progressing.

However, many first-time visitors to Japan still wonder:
“How do I pay with cash in Japan?” or “Which stores accept cashless payments?”

This article provides a clear, practical guide on how to use both cash and cashless payment methods while traveling in Japan.
We’ll also take Yamanashi Prefecture—a popular tourist destination—as an example to explain the latest cashless adoption trends in Japan.

Before you start planning your trip, make sure to check this out and travel Japan with confidence!

Main Payment Methods in Japan

When traveling in Japan, you can choose from a variety of payment options:

・Cash (banknotes and coins)
・Cashless payments
　└ QR code payments (PayPay, Rakuten Pay, etc.)
　└ Electronic money / Transportation IC cards (Suica, PASMO, etc.)
　└ Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, JCB, etc.)
　└ Debit cards (some international cards are accepted)

In major cities such as Tokyo and Osaka, as well as popular tourist areas like Mt. Fuji and Kyoto, cashless payments are widely accepted at many shops, restaurants, and attractions.

However, in rural towns, small local stores, and mountain inns, you may still find places that accept cash only.

For that reason, it’s best to carry both cash and a cashless payment method during your trip to Japan.

Let’s take a closer look at each type of payment method below.

About Cash in Japan

Japan’s currency is called the yen (円, en), and it is commonly represented by the symbol ¥.
Japanese yen comes in two forms — coins and banknotes, both of which are used nationwide.

Coins: ¥1 / ¥5 / ¥10 / ¥50 / ¥100 / ¥500
Banknotes: ¥1,000 / ¥2,000 / ¥5,000 / ¥10,000
※ The ¥2,000 note is rarely seen and is considered somewhat unique.

Practical Tips for Paying with Cash

Here’s an example of how you might pay in Japan:
If your total at a supermarket is ¥55, you could pay in several ways:

・Five ¥10 coins + one ¥5 coin → ¥55
・One ¥50 coin + one ¥5 coin → ¥55

If you don’t have small coins, no problem — hand over a ¥100 coin, and you’ll receive ¥45 in change.

Many stores in Japan use automated cash registers that calculate and return exact change, so even first-time visitors can pay confidently with cash.

To ensure smooth transactions during your trip, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with Japan’s coins and banknotes in advance.

Where to Exchange or Obtain Japanese Yen — Recommended Places

There are several ways to get Japanese yen during your trip:
airports, banks, currency exchange offices, and even some hotels or large shopping malls offer exchange services.

For most travelers, the most convenient option right after arrival is the foreign currency exchange counters at major airports such as Narita, Haneda, and Kansai International Airport.
These counters often provide multilingual support (including English), and exchange rates are clearly displayed, making them easy and safe to use.

In city centers, major banks and private exchange offices may offer better rates than airports, making them ideal for exchanging larger amounts.
However, note that banks and exchange offices have limited business hours, so it’s best to check their schedule in advance.

Another very convenient option is withdrawing cash from ATMs using a credit card.
Many ATMs in Japan accept international brands like Visa, Mastercard, and JCB, and some are available 24 hours a day.
Depending on the exchange rate and service fees, ATM withdrawals can sometimes be cheaper than exchanging cash at a counter.

💡 Tip: ATMs at convenience stores such as 7-Eleven, Lawson, and FamilyMart are foreign-card friendly and are often the easiest way to get yen anywhere in Japan.

Need to Exchange Foreign Currency at Lake Kawaguchi? “SMART EXCHANGE” Has You Covered!

Many travelers visiting the Lake Kawaguchi area in Yamanashi often wonder, “Where can I exchange my foreign currency for Japanese yen?”

In fact, most banks and financial institutions around Kawaguchiko Station do not provide foreign exchange services, so finding a place to get yen can sometimes be tricky.

That’s where the SMART EXCHANGE machines come in handy — automated foreign currency exchange kiosks available across Japan.

With over 750 machines nationwide, SMART EXCHANGE can be found not only in major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto, but also in tourist destinations from Hokkaido to Okinawa.
There are five machines installed around Lake Kawaguchi, making it easy for visitors to obtain Japanese yen even while sightseeing.

・Available 24 hours a day (depending on location)
・Supports foreign currency → Japanese yen exchanges (yen → foreign currency not available)
・No passport required
・Transparent rates displayed on-screen — no additional handling fees

Whether you suddenly need cash, or want to exchange money late at night or early in the morning, SMART EXCHANGE offers a fast, secure, and convenient solution.
If you’re traveling around Lake Kawaguchi, be sure to take advantage of these machines for a smooth and stress-free stay!

About Cashless Payments in Japan

As the name suggests, cashless payment refers to any method of paying for goods or services without using physical cash.
In Japan, there are four main types of cashless payment systems commonly used today:

・QR Code Payments (PayPay / Rakuten Pay / d-Barai / au PAY / Merpay, etc.)
　→A popular mobile payment method where you simply scan a QR code using a smartphone app to complete the transaction.
Accepted at a wide range of places — from convenience stores and restaurants to local souvenir shops.
・Electronic Money & Transit IC Cards (Suica / PASMO / ICOCA / iD / QUICPay, etc.)
　→ A contactless payment method that lets you just tap your card or smartphone on a reader.
Commonly used for public transportation, vending machines, and many retail stores.
・Credit Cards (VISA / Mastercard / JCB / American Express / Diners Club, etc.)
　→ One of the most widely used cashless options, especially for travelers.
Payments are made on a postpaid basis, and credit cards are accepted at most hotels, restaurants, and online shops across Japan.
・Debit Cards (Rakuten Bank Debit Card / PayPay Bank Visa Debit Card, etc.)
　→ Payments are deducted directly from your bank account at the time of purchase.
They work similarly to credit cards but without the postpaid system.

Cashless payments not only make transactions faster but also come with reward points, cashback, and coupons, making them especially convenient and economical for travelers exploring Japan.

Current Status of Cashless Payments in Japan

The Japanese government has been actively promoting the use of cashless payment systems — such as smartphone apps and credit cards — with the goal of raising the cashless payment ratio to 40% by 2025.

Thanks to these nationwide efforts, Japan’s cashless payment ratio reached 42.8% in 2024, achieving the original target ahead of schedule.

The government’s next target is to increase the ratio to 80%, and major policy reforms and infrastructure upgrades are already being planned to make cashless payments even more convenient across the country.

Cashless Payment Trends Worldwide

According to the “Cashless Roadmap 2024” released by the Cashless Promotion Council of Japan, global cashless adoption continues to grow rapidly — particularly across Asia:

・South Korea: Cashless payment ratio of 99.0%, one of the highest in the world.
　→ Government-led credit card promotion policies have created a nearly fully cashless society.
・China: Cashless payment ratio of 83.5%.
　→ QR code payment platforms such as Alipay and WeChat Pay have become deeply integrated into everyday life.
・Taiwan: Aiming for a 90% cashless ratio by 2025.
　→ Mobile payment apps like JKOPAY are widely used for utilities, transportation, and shopping.

These examples show how countries like Korea, China, and Taiwan have rapidly achieved high levels of cashless adoption through a combination of strong government initiatives and private tech innovation.

In comparison, Japan started later, but has made significant progress in recent years.
With continued infrastructure expansion and growing acceptance among local businesses, Japan is expected to offer a more seamless and traveler-friendly cashless experience in the near future.

Cashless Payment Availability in Yamanashi Prefecture

Yamanashi Prefecture is home to many of Japan’s most scenic destinations — Mount Fuji, Lake Kawaguchi, and numerous hot spring towns.
But how easy is it to use cashless payments when traveling around the region?

According to a 2019 survey, about 61.1% of businesses in Yamanashi had already introduced some form of cashless payment.
The most common payment method is credit card, and the number of stores accepting digital payments has been steadily increasing.

However, many small local shops, rural inns, and mountain lodges still only accept cash.
For this reason, travelers are encouraged to carry both cash and a cashless option such as a credit card or mobile app for convenience.

Recommended Cashless Option for Yamanashi Travel: “Welcome Suica”

When traveling around Yamanashi, one of the most convenient cashless tools you can use is the Welcome Suica — a special IC card for international visitors provided by JR East.

With just one card, you can pay for trains, buses, shopping, meals, and more — making it the perfect companion for exploring Yamanashi and the greater Tokyo area.

🔶 Features & Benefits of Welcome Suica
・Usable across a wide range of locations — trains, buses, convenience stores, restaurants, and shops marked with the Suica or IC logo.
・Rechargeable with cash or credit card at ticket machines, convenience stores, or ATMs.
・No deposit required, and valid for 28 days, making it easy for short-term visitors.
・Ready to use immediately — no registration or complicated setup needed.

🔶 Where to Purchase
・Welcome Suica ticket machines at
✈️ Narita Airport Station / Narita Airport Terminal 2 Station / Haneda Airport Terminal 3 Station
・JR EAST Travel Service Centers at major stations such as
Shinjuku / Tokyo / Ikebukuro / Ueno / Shibuya / Yokohama / Sendai
・JAPAN RAIL CAFÉ (Tokyo Station)
・TAKANAWA GATEWAY Travel Service Center
⚠️ Note: Some stations may temporarily suspend sales — check the official JR East website for the latest information.

In March 2025, JR East launched Welcome Suica Mobile, available through Apple Pay.
You can now charge your card directly with a registered credit card and use it instantly — no ticket counter or machine required.

🌟 Coming in Autumn 2025
Exciting new features will be added, allowing users to:
・Ride the Narita Express (Narita Airport ↔ Tokyo / Shibuya / Shinjuku / Yokohama)
・Board the Fuji Excursion to Yamanashi and Mt. Fuji
・Reserve seats on JR East’s Shinkansen and limited express trains directly

Welcome Suica is one of the easiest and most versatile cashless payment tools for international travelers in Japan.
Whether you’re exploring Mount Fuji, Lake Kawaguchi, or the hot springs of Yamanashi, it’s the simplest way to move and pay — just tap and go!

2 Recommended Cashless-Friendly Stays in Yamanashi

Yamanashi offers many comfortable accommodations that accept cashless payments, making your stay smoother and more convenient.
Here are two popular glamping-style resorts where you can enjoy breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji, luxury amenities, and a stress-free digital payment experience.

【Glamping Village Fuji Kawaguchiko】All rooms with private onsen | Credit cards accepted

Located just 90 minutes by car from central Tokyo, Glamping Village Fuji Kawaguchiko offers a luxurious outdoor experience surrounded by the beauty of nature.

The facility accepts major credit cards in addition to cash, allowing for seamless, stress-free payments throughout your stay.

Guests can enjoy a premium BBQ experience, featuring local specialties such as Kōshū beef sirloin and 14-day aged gourmet meats.
There’s also a “BYO” plan that lets you bring your own ingredients and enjoy a personalized BBQ using fresh local produce.

Within the site, you’ll find a complimentary drink bar offering Yamanashi wines, soft drinks, and more — a guest favorite.

Each tent and villa includes a private hot spring bath, letting you relax and unwind in total comfort — just like at a traditional Japanese ryokan.

A 10-minute walk from the resort takes you to Michi-no-Eki Narusawa, a roadside station where credit cards, IC cards, PayPay, and d-Barai are all accepted.

Perfect for travelers seeking a cashless, elegant outdoor stay with spectacular views of Mt. Fuji.

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Luxurious Glamping with Mt. Fuji Views! A Full Guide to Glamping Village Fuji Kawaguchiko For those who dream of spending a luxurious time surrounded by nature, enjoying hot springs and a private bonfire under the starry sky with Mt. Fuji as your …

【Glamping Dome Fuji Oshino】Luxury Stay Near Oshino Hakkai | Cashless & Comfort Combined

Located within walking distance of Oshino Hakkai, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Glamping Dome Fuji Oshino offers a luxurious escape where you can enjoy stunning views of Mt. Fuji and unwind in nature.

The facility supports cashless payments, allowing guests to pay easily using major credit cards — no need to carry large amounts of cash.

A highlight of your stay is the original “Lapi Tent”, making its first appearance in Japan. This spacious dome tent features canopy beds, stylish interiors, and warm lighting, creating a romantic and photogenic atmosphere that’s perfect for couples or anniversary trips.

Surrounded by peaceful nature, you can enjoy a truly extraordinary and relaxing stay — a balance of outdoor adventure and refined comfort.

If you’re looking for a cashless, luxurious glamping experience with magnificent views of Mt. Fuji, this is the ideal destination.

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Luxury Glamping Stay Near Oshino Hakkai: Discover Glamp Dome Fuji Oshino In June 2013, Oshino Hakkai in Yamanashi Prefecture was registered as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site as part of Mt. Fuji – Sacred Place and Source of …

Summary

In this article, we explored the current state of cashless payments in Japan and shared practical tips for travelers.
To make your Japan trip smoother, it’s best to prepare both cash and cashless options before your journey.

With the right balance and a bit of planning, you can enjoy a stress-free, comfortable travel experience — and focus on what truly matters: discovering the beauty of Japan.

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