East Asia
Japan
Japan's reputation as a tap-to-pay society sets up the first surprise - it still leans on cash more than you'd think, so an IC card (Suica or Pasmo) earns its place as your main way to pay: tap it through subways, convenience stores, lockers, and vending machines. Beyond the logistics, the advice I give most is to slow down. Give each prefecture or city real time - I like a week in each, because what you do in one barely resembles the next, and the attractions shift so much city to city that it never gets repetitive. Even just roaming on an open afternoon is part of the fun, and a fast way to want to buy everything in sight. Come prepared to eat and walk in large quantities, and note that vegans will find options genuinely scarce, so plan meals ahead. Fair warning - most people I know who go end up wanting to return.
Last updated May 2026
Money & Payments
Currency
¥
Japanese Yen
JPY
Cash Tip
Japan uses bills (¥1,000, ¥5,000, ¥10,000) and coins (¥1, ¥5, ¥10, ¥50, ¥100, ¥500).
The ¥500 coin is equivalent to approximately $3.50 USD.
Many smaller shops, temples, and vending machines remain cash-only.
Card Rating
How widely cards and contactless payments are accepted
6 / 10.0
Contactless credit cards and IC cards (Suica and Pasmo) are accepted for transit, convenience stores, and major retail outlets. Many small shops, traditional dining establishments, temples, and shrines remain cash-only. Cashless adoption sits at approximately 40% of transactions.
Daily Budget
Estimated daily costs per person
Budget
Meals & Transit
¥3,800–¥6,000
Convenience store meals (¥300–¥600), ramen shops (¥800–¥1,200), and gyudon chains. Subway/train travel with IC card (~¥800–¥1,500/day).
≈ $25–$40
Meals & Transit
¥3,800–¥6,000
≈ $25–$40
Convenience store meals (¥300–¥600), ramen shops (¥800–¥1,200), and gyudon chains. Subway/train travel with IC card (~¥800–¥1,500/day).
Accommodation
¥3,800–¥6,800
Hostel dorm beds, capsule hotels, or basic business hotels (Minshuku).
≈ $25–$45
Accommodation
¥3,800–¥6,800
≈ $25–$45
Hostel dorm beds, capsule hotels, or basic business hotels (Minshuku).
Mid-Range
Meals & Transit
¥7,500–¥12,000
Casual restaurants and izakayas (¥1,500–¥3,000 per meal). Mix of trains and occasional taxi (~¥2,000–¥3,000/day transport).
Entry & Documents
Visa Requirements
Check entry requirements for your passport
Select your passport to view visa requirements.
On the Ground
Power & Plugs
Voltage, frequency, and plug types
Type A100V50/60Hz
Bring a universal travel adapter to stay powered up regardless of plug type.
SIM Card Guide
Stay connected while traveling
Typical price range
¥2,000–¥5,000
≈ $13–$33 USD
Validity: 7-day data SIM
Practical Info
Apps & Getting Around
Essential apps and transport info
Navigation
- Google MapsForeigner-friendly
Provides train schedules, walking routes, and bus transit times in Japan. Works offline with downloaded maps.
- Navitime / Japan TravelForeigner-friendly
Specialized Japan transit app with detailed train routing, fare calculations, and platform numbers.
Transport
- Uber JapanForeigner-friendly
Available in major cities but limited compared to other countries. Primarily connects to licensed taxi drivers.
- Suica / PASMO (Apple Wallet)Foreigner-friendly
IC transit cards that work on trains, buses, and convenience stores. Can be added to Apple Wallet or Google Pay.
Before You Go
Rules & Restrictions
Important laws and customs to be aware of
Always verify current laws before travel. Laws can change and penalties vary.
Legal
- Drug legislation is strictly enforced. Possession of even small amounts of marijuana, stimulants, or other controlled substances can result in years of imprisonment.
- Nicotine-containing e-cigarettes and vape liquids cannot be purchased in Japan. You may bring a limited personal supply (up to 120ml of nicotine e-liquid) but cannot buy refills locally.
- Some over-the-counter medications from other countries (e.g. pseudoephedrine-based cold medicines, some ADHD medications) are prohibited. Check the Ministry of Health website before packing medicines.
Cultural
- Consuming food or beverages is restricted while walking. It is considered rude. Find a bench or designated eating area.
- Removal of shoes is customary prior to entering homes, temples, ryokans, and some restaurants. Look for shoe racks or slippers at the entrance.
- Be quiet on public transport. Phone calls on trains are considered very rude. Set your phone to silent (manner mode).
- Do not blow your nose in public. Step away to a restroom if needed.
- Tattoos may restrict access to onsen (hot springs), gyms, and public pools. Some onsen now allow tattoos or offer private baths.
Health
- Tap water is safe to drink throughout Japan.
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