Travel Money for Japan: Yen, Cash and Vending Machines

Japan is famously high-tech yet stubbornly fond of cash, and visitors are regularly surprised by how often only yen will do. Sort your travel money before you fly with a commission-free provider such as Travel FX and the contradiction becomes charming rather than stressful.

Where cash still rules

Shrines and temples, ramen ticket machines, small izakayas, rural stations and market stalls frequently take cash only, and some traditional inns prefer it too.

An orderly cash culture

Money is handed over on small trays rather than hand to hand, notes stay crisp, and tipping is not practised at all, which simplifies budgeting nicely.

Order yen from home

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