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.
How much money to bring to Japan
Budget roughly $80-130/day mid-range. Japan is famously cash-friendly — carry more cash than you’d expect, as many restaurants, temples and small shops still don’t take cards.
Cash vs card
Cards work in hotels, big stores and chains, but cash rules elsewhere. 7-Eleven and Japan Post ATMs reliably accept foreign cards (many bank ATMs don’t). Get an IC card (Suica/Pasmo) for effortless transit and many konbini purchases.
Tipping
None — tipping isn’t customary and can cause confusion. Great service is simply the standard.
How Much Money To Bring Japan FAQ
Do I need cash in Japan?
Yes — much more than in most developed countries; many places are cash-only.
Where can I withdraw cash in Japan?
7-Eleven and Japan Post ATMs reliably take foreign cards.