In Japan, cashless payments will account for 32.5% of all payments in 2021.

There are still many small and medium-sized stores that only accept cash payment. In particular, ramen shops are more likely to do so.

Please note that since Japan has developed its own electronic money, contactless payments such as Visa and Mastercard haven't yet penetrated that far, and you will often be asked to make transactions using IC chips.

In addition, Apple Pay and Google Pay in Japan are special and support Japan's own electronic money. Therefore, just because others are paying with their smartphones doesn't necessarily mean you can use Visa, Mastercard, or other contactless payment methods.

We recommend that you hold some "yen" just in case.

Enjoy your life in Japan.