Money, Cash & Cards — What You Actually Need

Despite Japan's reputation as cash-only, most of our trip was tap-to-pay. But you'll absolutely still need cash for small temples, mom-and-pop ramen shops, and rural ryokans. Here's the breakdown.

GET CASH AT 7-ELEVEN ATMs

7-Eleven ATMs accept foreign debit cards, are open 24/7, and are everywhere — you'll never be more than a few blocks from one in any city. Withdraw ¥30,000–50,000 at a time to minimize fees. Avoid currency exchange counters at the airport; the rates are terrible.

USE A CARD WITH NO FOREIGN TRANSACTION FEES

We used a Capital One Venture and a Charles Schwab debit card (refunds all ATM fees worldwide). Most travel-rewards cards (Chase Sapphire, Amex Platinum) have no FX fees. Check before you fly.

LOAD YOUR SUICA INTO APPLE WALLET

If you have an iPhone, you can add a Suica card directly to Apple Wallet and top it up with Apple Pay. This is the fastest way to pay for trains, vending machines, and most convenience stores. Note: Suica in Apple Wallet is iPhone-only and may have country-region requirements.

WHEN YOU'LL ACTUALLY NEED CASH

• Small temples and shrines (entrance fees ¥300–1,000)

• Some street food vendors at Nakamise and Nishiki Market

• Small family-run ramen shops with ticket vending machines

• Tipping is NOT a thing in Japan — do not tip

• Onsen vending machines for towels and yukata

• Some taxi rides outside major cities

WHAT TO BUDGET WITH KIDS (per day)

• Tokyo/Kyoto with kids: $250–400/day for a family of 4 (food, transit, attractions, snacks)

• Hotels: $200–500/night for kid-friendly properties

• Disney days: $400–600/day including park food and souvenirs

• Convenience store breakfasts will save you $30–50/day vs. hotel restaurants

KID-SPECIFIC COSTS

• Kids 6–11 are half-price on most trains and many attractions — always ask

• Many museums are free for kids under 6

• Disney has no kid pricing for adults' tickets but kids 4–11 get reduced rates

• Nara deer crackers are ¥200 per pack and you'll buy more than you think