Japan travel money tips
Japan uses the Japanese yen (JPY). Many travelers carry both cash and cards.
Payment norms can differ by shop and city. These tips stick to widely known basics; check current guidance from official tourism sources before you travel.
Practical tips
Carry yen for everyday spending
Cash remains common at many restaurants, shrines, and smaller shops. When one person pays cash for the group, log the expense immediately so others can reimburse fairly.
IC transit cards help on trains and buses
Reloadable IC cards (such as Suica and Pasmo) are widely used on public transport. Decide whether transit is a shared cost or individual before tapping through gates all week.
Cards work at many larger businesses
Hotels, chains, and many urban restaurants accept cards. Still keep backup cash in case a smaller venue is cash-only.
Track shared meals and day trips
Use a KupaPay trip group for ryokan stays, grocery runs, and group tickets so balances stay clear across long days of sightseeing.
Track shared trip costs in KupaPay
Create a group, log who paid what, and let KupaPay simplify settle-up — on iPhone, Android, and the web.