Places and Shops in Japan Where Cash Is Often Necessary!
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I’m a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter of English for 12 years.
For the people who are interested in and planning trip to Japan ,
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While credit cards and IC train cards are widespread in Japan, there are still many situations where you need cash.
Places Where Cash Is Required or Recommended
Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples .(offerings, amulets, temple stamps)
Small, independently owned eateries .(ramen shops, set meal restaurants, izakaya bars)
Local sushi shops, standing sushi counters.
Traditional shopping streets, small independent shops.
Food stalls/stands (festivals, temple fairs, tourist spots).
Regional tourist facilities, small museums.
Taxis in regional areas (especially regional cities, at night).
Minshuku (guesthouses, family-run in), small inns.
Small supermarkets outside regional convenience storesVending machines, coin lockers (Some accept cash only).
Key Point
Even in major cities like Tokyo and Osaka, smaller, older, and more local shops tend to use cash more.
Types of Japanese Banknotes & Coins and Their Usability
Bills(Paper Money)
① 1,000yen
Most versatile and essential.
Frequently used in vending machines and small shops.
Easy to get change with.
→Best to always carry a few.
② 5,000 yen
Convenient for medium-sized payments.
Commonly used at restaurants and taxis.
→Convenient but choose where to use it.
③ 10,000 yen
Japan’s highest denomination bill.
Often dispensed by ATMs.
It might be difficult to use in small shops or vending machines.
→For large payments.
Breaking it down is better.
Coins
① 1yen & 5yen coins
Used to adjust tax-inclusive prices.
Shrine offerings (5yen coins are considered lucky)
→It will increase gradually in your wallet.
② 10yen & 50yen coins
Frequently used at vending machines & convenience stores.
The coins you use most often.
→Practicality No. 1
③ 100yen coin
Vending machines, coin lockers, 100-yen shops and arcades.
Essential coins for sightseeing.
→Having lots will be ok.
④ 500yen coin
High value but extremely convenient.
It works in vending machines, restaurants, and train systems.
Special size and weight for counterfeit prevention
→“The strongest currency in the coin world”
Quick tip for tourists
Always carry 5,000 yen to 10,000 yen in cash.
ATMs at convenience stores (7-Eleven / FamilyMart / Lawson) are reliable.
The ideal combo: card + IC train card( SUICA , PASMO, OCOCA) + cash
Small coin pouches are handy for managing growing change.
How was it?
Make sure you have some cash for in case!
I’m Nobu , one heart enjoy together!!
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