Travel money in Japan (2024)

<h2><strong>What is the local currency in Japan?</strong></h2><p>The official currency of Japan is the Japanese Yen, which is the third most traded currency in the foreign exchange market. One Japanese yen is 0.0070GBP as of 22nd January 2020.</p><h2></h2><h2><strong>History of the Japanese Yen </strong></h2><ul><li>Before 1871, during the Meiji reforms, Japan had many different currencies that were strictly decided by the Shoguns and was mostly coins.</li><li>The Japanese yen was introduced in 1871 under the Meiji government.</li><li>By 1897, Japan adopted the gold exchange standard (they would remove from it in 1931) and the yen was gradually becoming more valuable.</li><li>Today it is one of the most traded currencies in the world.</li></ul><p></p><h2><strong>Do I tip in Japan?</strong></h2><p>Tipping in Japan is not customary. Their culture is one that is firmly rooted in dignity, respect and hard work – therefore good service is considered the standard and has resulted in Japan being labelled as the culture “which always over-delivers.”</p><p>Some restaurants in Japan would even refuse to accept a tip, a simple thank you for the service and food suffices. There is also no expectation to tip taxi drivers in Japan.</p><p>There are, however, a few exceptions to this rule; in some cases, the staff that work for tourist companies in Japan are accustomed to receiving a small gratuity.</p><p>View our<a rel="noopener" href="/travel-money/what-you-need-to-know-about-tipping-on-holiday/" target="_blank">tipping guide</a>for more help on tipping abroad.</p><p><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Japan/@32.6943697,129.4193845,5z/data=!4m13!1m7!3m6!1s0x34674e0fd77f192f:0xf54275d47c665244!2sJapan!3b1!8m2!3d36.204824!4d138.252924!3m4!1s0x34674e0fd77f192f:0xf54275d47c665244!8m2!3d36.204824!4d138.252924" target="_blank"><img style="width: 500px; height: 233.66666666666666px;" src="https://media.caxtonfx.com/img/1099643/japan-atlas-map-travel-money.jpg?width=500&amp;height=233.66666666666666" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/da0149e776ec44a890d5b3c0cb805f23" /></a></p><p></p><h2><strong>Using cash in Japan</strong></h2><p>When travelling, our experts would recommend always bringing a small amount of cash with you on every trip, for initial taxi transfers or hotel deposits etc. A large portion of your Japanese Yen should be put onto a<a rel="noopener" href="/currency-cards/caxton-currency-account/" target="_blank">Caxton multi-currency card</a>, for safe and secure spending.</p><p>Japan is still mainly a cash society, especially in smaller towns, thus, it’s advisable to bring cash when exploring rural areas. However, in the larger cities and towns most establishments accept credit/debit cards, making a prepaid card still an essential travel companion.</p><p>Post offices or 7-Eleven ATMs have been frequently mentioned as the best places to withdraw cash in Japan from an international card.</p><p>Most international banks and money outlets now charge a fee for using ATM machines, as do most card providers. Taking a travel pre-paid card and a credit card is recommended as Caxton do not charge for international ATM use regardless of sum or number of times, (but check with your card provider about charges.)</p><p></p><h2><strong>What happens if I have my wallet stolen whilst in Japan?</strong></h2><p>Japan is known to be a safe country with friendly and helpful people, but this shouldn’t stop you from being smart whilst you travel. If the majority of your cash is on a<a rel="noopener" href="/currency-cards/caxton-currency-account/" target="_blank">prepaid card</a>, this will be automatically protected. However, in case the worse happens, here are the list of major debit/credit card ‘lost and stolen’ numbers:</p><p><strong>HSBC/First Direct</strong> -+44 1442 422929</p><p><strong>Natwest</strong> -+44 1268 500 813</p><p><strong>Lloyds</strong> -+44 1702 278270</p><p><strong>Barclays </strong>-+442476842099</p><p><strong>Santander</strong> -+44 1908 237 963</p><p><strong></strong></p><h2><strong>What can I do with spare Yen?</strong></h2><p>Whilst in Japan, you may as well spend any remaining Yen, if only small amount, on some traditional Japanese souvenirs, such as:</p><ul><li>Yukata</li><li>Matcha flavoured tea/sweets</li><li>Chopsticks</li><li>Traditional craft/ceramic works</li>

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<p>Alternatively, if a Yukata isn’t your style, you can use Caxton’s<a rel="noopener" href="/currency-cards/buy-back-guarantee/" target="_blank">buy back guarantee</a>to get rid of any unused Japanese Yen. By doing this you ensure that if the exchange rate moves against you, you won't lose out.</p><p><a rel="noopener" href="/caxton-cards" target="_blank"><img style="width: 500px; height: 125px;" src="https://mediaumbraco.blob.core.windows.net/img/1099354/caxtoncard-promo-banner-02.png?width=500&amp;height=125" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/d2ce56b6d4dd46298f0dcafd9c58b9d8" /></a></p>

Travel money in Japan (2024)

FAQs

Should I exchange money before I travel to Japan? ›

Is it better to exchange money in Japan? Finding the most favorable rates for exchanging your money depends on the currency that you hold. For example, if you are traveling from the U.S., wait to exchange your dollars for yen until you have arrived in Japan.

Is it better to take cash or card to Japan? ›

Cash is still the most popular payment method in Japan. If you travel to the countryside, it will most likely be your only option. Although cards and other cashless ways of paying are widely accepted in urban areas, you should still keep some old-fashioned cash on you.

What is the best way to travel with money in Japan? ›

Cash in the form of coins and notes can be incredibly useful when travelling around Japan, especially in more rural areas. While major cities like Tokyo and Osaka accept foreign cards, most establishments around Japan (including accommodations, restaurants, and shopping centres) prefer cash.

Is $100 a day enough for Japan? ›

The major costs of a trip to Japan are flights, hotels, eSIM, JR Pass, transportation, food, and activities. Overall, a budget traveler can expect to spend around $50 to $100 per day in Japan, while a mid-range traveler can expect to spend around $150 to $250 per day.

Is it better to buy yen in the US or in Japan? ›

When to exchange: Although it depends on the currency, it is generally better to exchange yen in Japan than in your home country, due to a lower commission and better exchange rate. Similarly, you'll typically get better rates away from the major airports.

Is $1000 dollars enough for a week in Japan? ›

In conclusion, while $1000 dollars may not be enough to fully explore all of Japan's attractions, it's still possible to have a budget-friendly trip. By carefully planning transportation, opting for affordable accommodations, and trying local street food, you can make the most of your budget.

Does Japan accept US dollars? ›

Many smaller businesses do not accept any payment type besides cash. Unfortunately, you can't pay with your own currency either — foreign currency is not accepted as payment in Japan, so travelers must exchange their local currency into Japanese yen.

Do you tip in Japan? ›

In Japan, it's not common to tip for services such as those provided in bars, cafes, restaurants, taxis, and hotels. However, there is a custom in Japan of giving a gratuity, called ""kokorozuke"", (coming from the heart), in some situations. There are certain situations where tipping might be considered appropriate.

How much yen should I bring to Japan for 2 weeks? ›

How Much Spending Money You'll Need in Japan for 1, 2 or 4 Weeks
Spending Money1 week2 week
Budget¥55,000¥105,000
Mid-Range¥135,000¥270,000
Luxury¥340,000¥680,000
Aug 27, 2023

Is it okay to fold yen? ›

Japanese Money Etiquette

It is easy to fold, crumple, and otherwise damage paper money into your pocket or wallet. However, when in Japan, you'll want to mind this concept as it is generally frowned upon. When giving or accepting money, it is a tradition to do this with both hands, and/or upon a tray.

Is $5,000 dollars enough to travel to Japan? ›

Yes, $5,000 is generally sufficient for a comfortable trip, including airfare, accommodation, meals, and activities. Is Japan very expensive to travel? Many think traveling to Japan is expensive, but costs vary. Affordable options for where to stay, eating out, and transportation adjust to different budgets.

Is it OK to bring cash with me when visiting Japan? ›

Japan is a cash society. Visitors are advised to carry sufficient cash with them when travelling around. The cash you carry around should be enough to cover any travel expenses, accommodation fees, meals and entrance fees for attractions.

Is Japan expensive for tourists? ›

Japan travel cost

The cost of a trip to Japan can vary depending on your travel style, duration of stay, and choice of accommodation. On average, a budget traveller can expect to spend around Rs. 5,000 to Rs. 10,000 per day, while a mid-range traveller may spend around Rs.

How far does 100 US dollars go in Japan? ›

US Dollars to Japanese Yen: exchange rates today
USDJPY
100 USD15,588 JPY
250 USD38,971 JPY
300 USD46,765 JPY
500 USD77,943 JPY
8 more rows

How much money do I need for 7 days in Japan? ›

Solo traveler. The cost for one person to visit Japan for a week is 155 000 ¥ – 200 000 ¥ (1200 USD – 1500 USD) (bare in mind that it depends on the person/ offers/ period/ and preferences). Food: On average per day a moderate budget tourist spends about 4,500 ¥ on food.

Is it better to withdraw money in Japan or exchange? ›

Withdrawing Money in Japan

We recommend that you exchange all the money you expect to need when you arrive in Japan, but we know that you may run out of cash or just need a little extra during your trip. Don't worry — withdrawing money from your foreign credit or debit card in Japan is easy.

Is it better to change currency in Japan? ›

Depending on where you are traveling from, it might be beneficial to exchange money before arriving. For instance, you will get a better exchange rate for yen in Southeast Asian countries than in Japan.

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