How Much Money to Bring to Japan: Realistic Daily Budgets
Japan is cash-heavy and pricier than most of Asia. Here are realistic daily budgets and how to manage money before and during your trip.
Daily budgets
Backpacker: ¥7,000-10,000/day ($50-70), hostels, 7-Eleven meals, walking. Mid-range: ¥15,000-25,000/day ($100-170) — business hotels, set meals, JR Pass. Luxury: ¥40,000-80,000+/day ($270-540+): ryokan, kaiseki, taxis.
How much cash to bring
Carry ¥10,000-20,000 ($70-140) in cash daily. Many small restaurants, temples, ryokan, and family-run shops don’t take cards. Convenience stores + chain restaurants take cards.
ATMs
Japan Post Bank ATMs (in every post office) and 7-Eleven ATMs accept foreign cards 24/7 with no fee. Limit ~¥50,000 ($340) per withdrawal. Some bank ATMs reject foreign cards. Stick to Post Office or 7-Eleven.
Currency exchange
Best rates at major airports + at Travelex in Tokyo/Osaka. Don’t exchange at your home country’s bank, terrible rates. Exchange small amounts at airport, then use ATMs for the rest.
Tipping + cards
No tipping anywhere. Major hotels + chains + department stores + train stations accept Visa/Mastercard. Bring 1 backup card. Small ryokan + traditional restaurants are cash-only — confirm before booking.