Japan's card acceptance is moderate — accepted at most hotels, restaurants, and shops, but cash is still common for smaller purchases. Keep cash on hand for small restaurants, temples/shrines, rural areas, and some taxis.
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Japan's card acceptance is moderate — accepted at most hotels, restaurants, and shops, but cash is still common for smaller purchases. Japan is more cash-reliant than its tech reputation suggests — many small restaurants, temples, and rural businesses are cash-only, so carry yen.
Yes, mainly for small restaurants, temples/shrines, rural areas, and some taxis.
Contactless works at most established businesses in Japan, though smaller vendors may only take cash.
Having some local currency in cash is generally more useful than foreign cash for everyday spending — exchange or withdraw a small amount on arrival to cover small restaurants, temples/shrines, rural areas, and some taxis.
Banks and airport kiosks quietly add 3–7% to every exchange through worse rates and fees. A Wise account converts your money at the real mid-market rate, holds 40+ currencies, and comes with a card that works at ATMs and terminals in Japan like a local one — usually the cheapest way for travelers to spend abroad.
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