Despite my research, on my first trip to Japan one of the things I struggled with for the first few days was handling money. The following three tips will make your journey a bit smoother.
- Master Coin Management
You will find yourself with a ton of coins. In the U.S., we just don’t carry many coins. In Japan you will find yourself loaded down with coins after your first day.
There are several coin dominations – from 1 – 500 yen – and they add up quickly!
Before you leave on your trip:
- Become familiar with what the coins look like. It will make spending faster and easier.
- Buy a coin purse, you will need it. You will find one you like more once you are in-country I promise.
- Begin using coins on day one as they pile up quickly.
- Cash is King
Despite massive tourism, cash is still king in Japan, especially outside of the “tourist triangle” of Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto. Upon arriving DO NOT go to a currency exchange in the airport. Instead go to the nearest Konbini (convivence store) and get cash from the ATM. I personally go to 7-11 as they have low fees. If you feel strongly about going to a currency exchange, you will find the best exchange rates near Shinjuku Station.
In the U.S. I don’t carry much cash. In Japan, its’ not unusual for me to carry a few hundred dollars in yen. It took me some time to get used to this.
As a Life Experienced Adult, I tend to be nervous with the idea of carrying much cash.
Japan is extremely safe. So much so that I once dropped a 10,000 yen note out of my pocket as I was walking. A young woman ran up to me with the bill in her hand to return it. It took me a minute to wrap my head around that.
- IC Cards
While at the airport pick up an IC card. Suica and Pasmo are two of the most popular brands. They serve the same purpose(s). These can be used for:
- Trains and Subways – just scan as you walk through the ticketing area.
- Many Vending Machine – easier than cash
- Convivence Stores – same as cash in most stores
If you aren’t sure if a store accepts it, just ask: IC kaado wa tsukaemasu ka? Meaining “Are IC cards accepted here”? You can even just stay “IC kaado” and you will be OK.
BONUS TIPS
In Japan it is common to place payment on a tray instead of just handing money over to the person. This is true most everywhere and is considered more polite.
When paying for goods at a convivence store, there may be a machine next to the counter o drop coins in to complete your purchase. Once you get used to it, you will find it to be fast and easy.
