Which payment methods are accepted in Japan?
There are numerous cashless payment methods in Japan.
Many credit cards and barcode payments are accepted in Japan. IC cards for public transportation such as “Suica” can also be used for purchases at many stores. First, we will discuss credit cards that can be used in Japan.
Many credit cards are accepted in Japan.
While many credit cards are accepted in Japan, Discover is not accepted in many places. The card that can be used in most places is a VISA card, but American Express and Diners are affiliated with JCB, a Japanese credit card brand, and can be used in many places where JCB cards are accepted. My recommendation is to bring a VISA or Master card.
In addition, many of the new credit card payment terminals in Japan also support touch payment (NFC Type A/B). The bellow mark is a landmark, but American Express Contactless may not be accepted. VISA cards are still the best choice for touch payment. It should be noted that public transportation in Japan is mainly operated by NFC-standard IC cards called Felica, and therefore, public transportation cannot be used by touch payment with credit cards.
Payment methods are difficult to use unless you are Japanese.
Although there are many cashless payment methods in Japan, very many of them are only available if you live in Japan and have a Japanese bank account or credit card. They are the following payment methods are not recommended for foreigners.
- iD
- QUICPay
- 楽天Edy (Rakuten Edy)
- 楽天ペイ (Rakuten Pay)
- PayPay
- d払い (d Barai)
- au PAY
- メルペイ (Merupay)
- FamiPay
- LINE Pay
- WAON
- nanaco
Cash in Japanese Yen can be withdrawn at SEVEN-ELEVEN.
If you have a cash card from a bank that accepts “PLUS” or a VISA card, you can withdraw Japanese yen from ATMs. I think the best withdrawal is at SEVEN-ELEVEN ATM.
In Japan, credit cards are often not accepted, especially in small stores and in rural areas, but SEVEN-ELEVEN stores are located in many areas, so there is no must to make a lot of Japanese yen at a currency exchange office.
