How much cash should I bring for my first trip to Japan? What's the most efficient way to bring funds to Japan?

Japan TravelCash ManagementFund Transfertravel preparationInternational PaymentsRelocating to Japan
Created At: 8/11/2025Updated At: 8/17/2025
Answer (1)

Hey there! For first-time visitors to Japan, money matters are definitely a top concern—after all, "money makes the mare go." Don't worry, it's not complicated. Let me break it down for you.

Part 1: How Much Cash Should I Bring for My First Trip to Japan?

Simply put, while Japan is highly modernized, it remains a "cash society" in many small establishments. So, going completely cashless isn't feasible.

Scenario 1: Short-Term Trip (e.g., 7-15 Days)

My recommendation: Bring ¥30,000 ~ ¥50,000 in cash (approx. ¥1,500 ~ ¥2,500 RMB).

This amount offers a comfortable buffer because:

  • It covers "cash-only" situations:
    • Many authentic small eateries, especially ramen shops and teishoku (set meal) restaurants.
    • Street food stalls (e.g., takoyaki, taiyaki).
    • Temple/shrine entrance fees and omamori (amulets) purchases.
    • Some traditional markets or small souvenir shops.
    • Recharging transportation cards (Suica/Pasmo). While many machines now accept credit cards, cash is the safest bet.
  • Avoids anxiety over carrying too much: Large amounts of cash can be stressful to manage and easy to lose. This range is manageable even when split up.

Tip: This is a per person budget. ¥50,000 is ample for one person's miscellaneous expenses. For two people, aim for ¥70,000-¥80,000. Major expenses (like shopping or hotels) can easily be handled by credit card.

Scenario 2: Moving to Japan for Long-Term Stay/Study

This is different. You'll need "startup funds," not just pocket money.

My recommendation: Bring ¥200,000 ~ ¥300,000 in cash.

This money covers initial large expenses before you have a Japanese bank account:

  • Initial rental costs (security deposit, key money, etc.).
  • Purchasing essential household items and furniture.
  • Setting up utilities (phone, electricity, gas, water).

Important Reminder: Japanese customs regulations require declaring cash exceeding ¥1,000,000 (or equivalent foreign currency) upon entry. Unless absolutely necessary, avoid carrying such large sums.

Part 2: What's the Most Efficient Way to Bring Money to Japan?

The best approach is definitely not cash alone, but a combination! This is both convenient and secure.

1. Cash: Your Safety Net

This is your essential backup.

  • How to exchange?
    • Exchange in your home country beforehand! This offers the best rates. Visit major banks like Bank of China or ICBC 1-2 days ahead to order yen.
    • Avoid airport exchanges! Rates at airports (both departure and arrival) are very unfavorable—only use for emergencies.
  • Pros: 100% acceptance, no fees (beyond exchange rate).
  • Cons: Risk of loss or theft.

2. Credit Card: Your Spending Powerhouse

The best tool for major expenses (hotels, department stores, restaurants).

  • Which cards to bring?
    • Top Choice: Visa or Mastercard. These have the highest acceptance in Japan, usable almost everywhere cards are taken.
    • Alternative: UnionPay. Coverage is high in major city department stores, drugstores, outlet malls, and airports, often with special discounts.
    • My advice: Bring two cards from different networks (e.g., one Visa, one UnionPay) as a backup.
  • Pros: Secure, convenient, provides spending records, some offer cashback.
  • Cons: Not accepted at small shops; some cards charge foreign transaction fees (get a fee-free multi-currency card).

3. Mobile Payment: A Welcome Surprise

If you use Alipay or WeChat Pay, they can be very useful in Japan too.

  • Coverage: High in major cities at convenience stores (7-11, Lawson, FamilyMart), drugstores, department stores, airports, and many chain restaurants. Look for the blue "Alipay" or green "WeChat Pay" logo.
  • Pros: Good exchange rates, easy to use (just like home).
  • Cons: Coverage is less than cash/credit cards; rarely accepted at small local shops or eateries.

4. Japanese IC Cards (Suica / Pasmo / Icoca): The Daily Essentials Hero

Absolutely essential for navigating Japan!

  • What is it? Similar to transit cards elsewhere, but with supercharged functionality.
  • How to use?
    • Transportation: Tap for subways, JR trains, buses.
    • Small Purchases: Use at convenience stores, vending machines, coin lockers, and even some fast-food restaurants.
  • How to get one? Buy and top-up at airport or major station ticket machines upon arrival. You can also add a virtual Suica/Pasmo to your iPhone's Wallet app and recharge via Apple Pay—super convenient!

5. ATM Withdrawals: Your Emergency Backup

Use this if you run low on cash.

  • Where to withdraw? Don't use just any bank ATM—many won't accept foreign cards. Use ATMs at:
    • 7-Eleven stores (Seven Bank)
    • Lawson stores (Lawson Bank)
    • Post Offices (Japan Post Bank)
  • These ATMs usually have Chinese/English interfaces and accept UnionPay, Visa, and Mastercard.
  • Note: Fees apply from both your home bank and the Japanese ATM operator. Use only for emergencies.

To summarize, my golden advice is:

Before departure: Exchange ¥30,000-50,000 cash + Bring one Visa/Mastercard credit card as your main payment + Have Alipay/WeChat Pay ready on your phone + Upon arrival, buy/activate a Suica/Pasmo IC card and top it up.

This combination ensures smooth sailing in Japan. You'll enjoy the down-to-earth feel of paying cash at small shops, the ease of card payments at big stores, and the convenience of mobile/IC cards for daily needs.

Have a fantastic time in Japan!

Created At: 08-11 12:21:52Updated At: 08-12 02:26:48