🇯🇵 Japan · JPY
Japan remains a famously cash-friendly society, so even in a high-tech country you should always carry physical yen. The yen has no decimal subunit in everyday use, so prices are quoted in whole numbers, and you'll handle a surprising amount of coins.
Banknotes come in 1,000, 2,000 (rare), 5,000 and 10,000 yen. Coins are 1, 5, 10, 50, 100 and 500 yen, with the 500 yen coin being high-value and used constantly. Newly redesigned notes were introduced in 2024, but older notes remain valid and in circulation.
Cards are widely accepted in cities, department stores, hotels and chain restaurants, but cash is still essential for small eateries, temples, local markets, some ryokan and rural areas. IC transit cards like Suica and Pasmo double as contactless payment at convenience stores and vending machines. Always keep enough cash for a full day's small purchases.
Dedicated exchange counters and chains in major cities generally beat banks, which can be slow and offer mediocre rates for foreigners. Major post offices and some banks change currency but with limited hours. For the best value, compare a few city exchange shops rather than changing money the moment you land.
Airport exchange desks at Narita, Haneda and Kansai are convenient but typically give weaker rates and may add fees. Change only a small amount at the airport to cover transport into the city, then use a city exchange shop or an ATM for the rest. This usually leaves you with noticeably more yen.
The most reliable ATMs for foreign cards are at 7-Eleven (Seven Bank) convenience stores and Japan Post Bank, both with English menus and nationwide coverage. Many bank-branch ATMs do not accept overseas cards and some have limited overnight hours. Tell your bank you're traveling, and expect a small fixed withdrawal fee per transaction.
Tipping is not customary in Japan and can even cause confusion or be politely refused. Good service is standard and already included; leaving extra cash on a table may have staff chase you down to return it. The main exceptions are some high-end ryokan or private guides, where gratuities are handled discreetly.
Japan is very safe with little street crime, so the bigger risks are practical: running out of cash where cards aren't accepted, or being stuck with ATMs that reject foreign cards. Avoid touts in nightlife districts like Kabukicho who lure people into bars with hidden, inflated charges. Always confirm whether a venue takes cards before ordering.
Carry enough yen for several days of meals, transport and small purchases, topping up at convenience-store ATMs as you go. A daily cash buffer is wise because many smaller venues are cash-only. Japan's low crime rate means carrying moderate amounts of cash is generally safe.
Compare verified currency exchange shops near you — opening hours, locations and reviews.
⭐ Free account
Create a free account to bookmark exchange shops, get rate alerts, and sync across devices. No fees, no ads.
Sign up free with email →