When traveling in Japan, you’d probably prefer cashless payments over using cash. And wouldn’t it be great if you could use your familiar QR code payment system instead of preparing a separate credit card for your Japan trip?
Well, the good news is that in Japan, more and more stores accept QR code payments from various countries. Among them, the following payment methods have become particularly popular.
- Alipay (China)
- Alipay HK (Hong Kong)
- WeChat Pay (China)
- Kakao Pay (South Korea)
- Touch’n Go (Malaysia)
- truemoney (Thailand)
- GCash (Philippines)
If you use any of these, you can shop in Japan using your familiar payment method!
QR Code Payments Rapidly Expanding in Japan
A few years ago, cashless payments were not very common in Japan. However, over the past few years, the number of places where you can make non-cash payments has increased significantly compared to before (as of 2023).
Among them, QR code payments have been particularly on the rise. Just a few years ago, QR code payment services didn’t exist in Japan, but now the adoption rate in stores has reached 55%, meaning that one out of every two stores can accept QR code payments.
Major QR Code Payments for Tourists Available in Japan
As QR code payments are becoming more popular, there is a growing trend in Japan to offer QR code payment options specifically for incoming tourists. Thanks to this, more and more shops now accept QR code payments that are used overseas. The following are the QR code payment services that are commonly available for use in Japan.
- Alipay (China)
- Alipay HK (Hong Kong)
- WeChat Pay (China)
- Kakao Pay (South Korea)
- Touch’n Go (Malaysia)
- truemoney (Thailand)
- GCash (Philippines)
Where can I use it the most?
In major places, you can use these QR code payments at Japan’s leading convenience store chains:
- 7-Eleven
- FamilyMart
- Lawson
You can also use them at many other restaurants, retail stores, and tourist attractions. So, when you see the symbol, feel free to make your payment with the familiar QR code.
Is the Usage the Same?
The usage is the same in Japan. If it’s available, you’ll find each service’s logo displayed at the store. Just tell the cashier the name of the service you want to use, and then proceed with the payment as you would in your home country. The payment process will be completed just like when you use it back home.
In Japan, the logos of each service are often grouped together under “Alipay+” instead of being shown separately. However, even in this case, you don’t need to worry as it doesn’t mean you can’t use it without having Alipay.
Can I Charge in Japan?
Cash charging at convenience stores or ATMs is not available in Japan. If you usually charge your account with cash, we recommend topping up your balance in your home country before coming to Japan, so you don’t run out of funds while here. However, if you have linked your bank account in advance, you can still instruct an online deposit through the app.
In addition to credit cards, having QR code payments ready will be convenient.
In recent years, the number of places where you can make cashless payments in Japan has significantly increased. However, there are still many shops that do not accept credit cards. On the other hand, QR code payments are becoming more widely available, even in places where credit cards are not accepted.
For those planning a trip to Japan and considering using cashless payments, I recommend preparing both credit cards and QR code payment options. By having both options available, you can make cashless payments even at shops that don’t accept credit cards, allowing for a more comfortable and enjoyable trip to Japan.
