Japan’s Currency: The Yen
Japan uses the Japanese Yen (JPY, symbol: yen). Notes come in 1,000, 5,000, and 10,000 denominations (and a less common 2,000 yen note). Coins come in 1, 5, 10, 50, 100, and 500 yen. The 500 yen coin is the most valuable coin and frequently used for vending machines and small purchases.
Exchange rates fluctuate. Always verify the current rate before travelling rather than relying on figures in travel guides.
Getting Yen
ATMs
The most reliable way to get yen in Japan is to withdraw from an ATM using a foreign debit or credit card. The best options are:
- 7-Eleven ATMs (Seven Bank) — accept most international Visa, Mastercard, and some other cards 24 hours
- Japan Post ATMs — widely distributed and accept major international cards during business hours (some 24 hours)
- International airport ATMs — available on arrival at Narita, Haneda, Kansai, and other major airports
Standard bank ATMs (MUFG, Mizuho, SMBC) often do not accept foreign cards, especially outside major cities.
Currency Exchange
Currency exchange is available at international airports, major train stations, post offices, and some banks. Exchange rates at dedicated currency exchange counters are generally competitive. Hotels typically offer poor rates. Airport exchange counters are convenient on arrival but check the rate before exchanging a large amount.
Cash vs Card in Japan
Japan has historically been a cash-heavy society and many smaller restaurants, temples, shrines, local shops, and rural businesses still only accept cash. Card acceptance has grown significantly in recent years, particularly in cities, chain restaurants, and convenience stores. However, it is advisable to always carry at least some cash — running out in a rural onsen town or at a busy festival stall can be inconvenient.
IC cards (Suica, PASMO, ICOCA) loaded with yen work seamlessly on all urban rail, bus, and subway systems and for purchases at convenience stores, many restaurants, and vending machines. These are the most frictionless payment method for daily transport and small purchases.
Credit and Debit Cards
Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted at hotels, department stores, larger restaurants, and chain shops. American Express and JCB are accepted at upmarket establishments. Contactless payments (tap to pay) are increasingly common. However, small izakaya, ramen bars, and local craft shops often only accept cash.
Notify your bank before travelling to Japan to avoid transaction blocks. Foreign transaction fees vary by card — some travel-specific cards waive these entirely.
Budgeting Tips
- Convenience store food (onigiri, sandwiches, ready meals) is inexpensive, good quality, and available 24 hours
- Standing ramen or udon bars cost 600 to 1,000 yen for a full meal
- A 500 yen coin can cover green tea, coffee from a vending machine, or a snack almost anywhere
- Coin lockers at train stations charge 300 to 700 yen per day; keep 500 yen coins on hand
- Temple and shrine entrance fees are usually 300 to 1,000 yen; popular spots like Kinkakuji are at the higher end
Tipping
Tipping is not customary in Japan and can cause confusion or mild embarrassment. Excellent service is the standard and is considered part of the price you pay. Do not leave money on the table at restaurants or hand extra cash to taxi drivers. The best acknowledgement is a sincere thank-you (arigatou gozaimashita).
Last checked: April 2026. Exchange rates and ATM policies change — verify current conditions at time of travel.