How Much Cash Should You Bring to Japan? A Practical Guide
Japan is increasingly card-friendly, but cash still matters in certain situations. Instead of guessing, this guide helps you decide how much cash to bring to Japan based on your trip style—without over-carrying.
When you still need cash in Japan
- Small local restaurants, older shops, countryside stops
- Temple/shrine admissions and donation boxes
- Some local transport or top-ups (varies by city)
- Small purchases where cash is simply faster
A simple rule of thumb
For most travelers, carrying enough cash for 1–2 days of small expenses is a comfortable baseline, then withdrawing as needed. If you’re doing private transport and pre-arranged hotels, your cash needs are usually lower than backpacking-style travel.
How to decide your cash amount (by travel style)
- Comfort/private tour: lower cash, smoother payments, fewer surprises.
- Local food hunting: bring a bit more cash for smaller eateries.
- Onsen & ryokan: cash for incidentals; confirm what’s included.
Cash planning pairs with trip length
If you’re still choosing trip duration, these frameworks can help:
Planning for seniors? Comfort and predictability matter more than “doing everything.”
Read: Japan Tours for Seniors (if your slug differs, replace this link).
