Quick answer: Plan about $70–100/day budget, $160–260/day mid-range. Japan is still surprisingly cash-friendly — carry yen, and use 7-Eleven ATMs for withdrawals.
Japan is more cash-based than many expect. Here’s how much to budget and how to pay.
Daily budget
Budget: $70–100/day; mid-range: $160–260/day; luxury: $450+. A week (excluding flights) is roughly $490–1,800.
Cash vs card
Cards are increasingly accepted, but many restaurants, temples, small shops and transit top-ups still want cash. 7-Eleven and post-office ATMs reliably accept foreign cards.
How much cash to bring
Carry more yen than you would in Europe — enough for daily meals and small purchases. Withdraw from convenience-store ATMs as you go.
Tips
No tipping in Japan. Get an IC card (Suica/Pasmo) for transit. See our cost of a trip to Japan guide.