Japan remains a heavily cash-dependent society compared to most developed nations, though card acceptance has improved substantially since the 2020 Olympics preparations. Understanding where to get yen, how to manage cash, and the customs around money will prevent frustrating situations and help you budget effectively.
Getting Yen: ATMs
The most reliable and usually best-value way to access yen is via 7-Eleven ATMs (Seven Bank), which accept virtually all foreign Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Maestro cards, and operate in English, Chinese, Korean, and other languages. They are found at every 7-Eleven convenience store (over 21,000 locations nationwide) and at 7-Eleven ATM kiosks in airports and train stations.
Japan Post ATMs at post offices are the other universally reliable option, also accepting most foreign cards. Citibank ATMs (now under SMBC management) are available in major cities. Avoid Japanese bank ATMs (Mizuho, MUFG, Resona) for foreign cards — they often only accept Japanese-issued cards despite displaying card logos.
Currency Exchange
Exchange rates at airport counters are typically 3–5% worse than 7-Eleven ATM rates. If you must exchange cash: Travelex airport counters are the worst option; authorized exchange bureaux (ryogaesho) in cities offer better rates; post offices and some banks exchange cash at near-interbank rates. The best strategy: bring a small amount of local cash for immediate needs, then use 7-Eleven ATMs for the majority of your yen.
Card Acceptance
Visa and Mastercard are accepted at most hotels, department stores, major restaurants, convenience stores, and chain retailers. American Express and JCB are accepted less universally. Cash remains essential for: small restaurants and izakaya, shrines and temple admission, vending machines, some taxis, local buses, and markets. Keep ¥10,000–¥20,000 in cash at all times.
No Tipping
Tipping is not practiced in Japan — in restaurants, ryokan, taxis, hotels, and all service contexts. Offering a tip can cause confusion and mild embarrassment; in some contexts it may be politely refused multiple times. Exceptional service is simply expected as standard professional practice. The only exception: some tour guides who work primarily with international visitors have become accustomed to receiving tips, but it remains entirely optional.
- Notify your home bank before travel to avoid card fraud holds on overseas transactions.
- IC card (Suica/Pasmo) top-ups at 7-Eleven ATMs require a separate process from regular ATM withdrawals.
- ¥10,000 notes are the most convenient denomination; ¥1,000 and ¥5,000 notes for smaller purchases.