How much yen should I bring to Japan? The Latest Travel Cash Guide for 2024
As tourism in Japan reopens, many tourists are starting to plan their itineraries. Among them, "how much yen in cash to bring" has become a hot topic. This article will provide you with structured data and suggestions based on recent network discussions and actual needs.
1. Analysis of cash demand for travel in Japan

According to data from netizen discussions and travel platforms in June 2024, although the popularity of electronic payments in Japan has increased, cash is still a necessary choice in many scenarios:
| scene | cash requirement ratio | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| Traditional shops/markets | 90% | Such as shops around Sensoji Temple |
| Transportation card recharge | 70% | Some machines only accept cash |
| hot spring hotel | 60% | Some parts require payment of hot spring entrance tax on site |
| vending machine | 40% | Some old models |
2. Daily cash budget suggestions (single person)
| trip type | Basic budget (yen) | Contains items |
|---|---|---|
| Economical | 5,000-8,000 | Snacks + transportation + tips |
| Comfortable | 10,000-15,000 | Includes attraction tickets + light meal |
| High-end | 20,000+ | Special experiences such as Wagyu cuisine |
3. Comparison table of travel days and total cash
| Travel days | Recommended amount to bring (Japanese yen) | Redemption Tips |
|---|---|---|
| 3-5 days | 30,000-50,000 | Appointments can be made at domestic banks |
| 7-10 days | 70,000-100,000 | It’s safer to keep them separate |
| More than 10 days | 100,000+ | Recommended to use with credit card |
4. The latest precautions in 2024
1.exchange rate fluctuations: The recent exchange rate of Japanese yen to RMB is about 1:0.045 (June 2024). It is recommended to pay attention to the real-time exchange rate.
2.Tax exemption policy: Tax refunds are available for purchases over 5,000 yen, but some merchants require cash payment for handling fees.
3.contingency reserve: It is recommended to prepare an additional 10,000 yen in emergency cash and store it separately
4.Redemption channel: Domestic bank exchange rates are better than those at Japanese airports (the exchange difference at Narita Airport is about 3-5%)
5. References to real cases from netizens
| traveler type | 7 days trip cost | Cash usage ratio |
|---|---|---|
| Couple travel | 120,000 yen | 65% cash |
| Family tour (2 adults and 1 child) | 200,000 yen | 50% cash |
| solo backpacker | 80,000 yen | 75% cash |
Summary:It is recommended to prepare 50,000-100,000 yen in cash depending on the number of days of the trip, and use it with an international credit card (VISA/JCB). Remember to prepare a coin bag to handle a large amount of coins, and make an appointment with the bank for exchange three working days in advance.
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