Payment and Currency Tips for Your Cycling Adventure in Japan

Japan is a fantastic country for cycling, offering scenic routes, cultural experiences, and excellent infrastructure. However, many travelers wonder: How do I pay for things in Japan? Do I need cash, or can I use my credit card everywhere?

While Japan has embraced digital payments, cash is still essential, especially in rural areas. Understanding how to handle payments will help you avoid unnecessary stress and focus on enjoying your cycling adventure.

In this guide, we’ll cover:

✅ The payment methods we accept for your tour

✅ How to exchange currency and get the best rates

✅ A step-by-step guide to the payment process

✅ How much cash you should carry during the tour

✅ Where credit cards work (and where they don’t)

Payment Methods Accepted for Lotus Cycle Tour

We want to make your cycling adventure in Japan as smooth as possible, including a hassle-free payment process. Here are the payment methods we accept:

We accept the following payment methods:

WISE: https://wise.com/ (international wire transfer)

Flywire: Credit card payments

Visa

MasterCard

Bank transfers are also available.

Most hotels, convenience stores, and major restaurants in Japan accept credit cards, but some small businesses and rural establishments may not.

✔️ Cash (Japanese Yen only)

While credit cards and digital payments are becoming more common, cash is still king in Japan, especially in rural areas. We recommend carrying some Japanese yen (JPY) with you during your tour.

💡 Tip: Some vending machines, small eateries, and local shops only accept cash. It’s always a good idea to keep a few 1,000 yen bills on hand.

Currency Exchange and Conversion Tips

To make your cycling trip worry-free, ensure you have Japanese yen ready before you start your adventure. Here’s how:

Best Ways to Exchange Money

✔️ Before You Arrive

Exchange money at your local bank or airport exchange counter.

Order Japanese yen from your bank before departure.

✔️ Upon Arrival in Japan

Airport Currency Exchange: Most international airports in Japan have exchange counters, though rates may not be the best.

ATMs: The most convenient way to get yen is by withdrawing from international-friendly ATMs.

📍 Best ATMs for International Travelers:

7-Eleven ATMs (available in most cities and towns)

Japan Post Bank ATMs (found in post offices across Japan)

Major bank ATMs (Mizuho, MUFG, SMBC, etc.)

💡 Tip: Avoid airport kiosks for large exchanges, as they often offer lower rates compared to banks or ATMs.

Currency Conversion Tools

XE Currency Converter (https://www.xe.com)

Google Search (Simply type “100 USD to JPY”)

Your Bank’s Mobile App (to check real-time exchange rates)

Understanding the Payment Flow (Step-by-Step Guide)

To help you plan your budget, here’s a step-by-step guide on how payments work for your cycling tour:

1️⃣ How to reserve a tour

You can book a tour via our website reservation form or by emailing us directly. A deposit of 50,000 JPY is required at the time of booking, with the remaining balance due 60 days prior to the tour start date. For more details, visit our official website: Lotus Cycle Japan.

2️⃣During the Tour: Carry cash for small purchases like snacks and drinks.

3️⃣ Additional Purchases: If you need to rent extra gear or extend your tour, both cash and credit cards may be used.

💡 Tip: If you need extra cash, check for a 7-Eleven ATM or a Japan Post Bank ATM nearby.

How Much Cash Should You Carry During the Tour?

A common question we receive is: "How much cash do I need for the tour?"

While many places in Japan accept credit cards, some small vendors, rural shops, and traditional establishments may only take cash. To help you plan, here’s an estimate of typical daily expenses during a cycling trip:

Expense Type	Estimated Amount (JPY)	Payment Method
Light snacks/drinks	¥500–¥1,500	Cash
Small souvenirs	¥1,000–¥3,000	Cash
Local meals	¥1,500–¥3,500	Cash/Card
Emergency cash	¥5,000	Cash

💡 Tip: We recommend carrying ¥5,000–¥10,000 in cash per day, especially if your tour includes rural areas where credit cards may not be widely accepted.

Can I Use a Credit Card in Rural Areas?

In major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto, credit cards are widely accepted. However, in rural areas, many businesses still prefer cash.

Where Credit Cards Are Accepted

✔️ Hotels, convenience stores, and large supermarkets

✔️ Chain restaurants and cafes

✔️ Train stations and major tourist attractions

Where Cash is Required

❌ Small restaurants and local street food vendors

❌ Traditional ryokan (Japanese inns)

❌ Some rural train or bus stations

❌ Coin lockers and small souvenir shops

💡 Tip: If you’re heading into the countryside, stop by an ATM to withdraw some yen before you go.

Common Payment Mistakes Travelers Make in Japan

Even with careful planning, travelers sometimes face unexpected payment issues in Japan. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them:

1. Assuming Credit Cards Are Accepted Everywhere

Mistake: Expecting all stores and restaurants to accept credit cards.

Solution: Carry at least ¥5,000–¥10,000 in cash per day, especially for rural areas and small businesses.

2. Bringing Large Bills Without Small Change

Mistake: Carrying only ¥10,000 bills, which some small shops, buses, and vending machines may not accept.

Solution: Break large bills at convenience stores or train stations to get ¥1,000 bills and coins.

3. Not Informing Your Bank About International Travel

Mistake: Credit or debit cards getting blocked due to suspicious overseas transactions.

Solution: Notify your bank before traveling to prevent your card from being declined.

4. Expecting All ATMs to Accept Foreign Cards

Mistake: Trying to withdraw cash at a random ATM and getting a "Transaction Declined" message.

Solution: Use 7-Eleven ATMs, Japan Post Bank ATMs, or major bank ATMs for foreign cards.

5. Exchanging Money at the Airport Without Checking Rates

Mistake: Changing a large sum of money at the airport where exchange rates are often worse.

Solution: Exchange a small amount for immediate needs and use ATMs or banks for better rates.

6. Forgetting to Check Credit Card Compatibility

Mistake: Some Japanese shops and restaurants only accept Visa and MasterCard, rejecting other brands.

Solution: Carry multiple payment options (Visa/MasterCard and some cash) just in case.

7. Running Out of Cash in Rural Areas

Mistake: Assuming ATMs will be available everywhere, only to find out that small towns have few ATMs that accept foreign cards.

Solution: Withdraw enough cash in cities before heading to remote areas.

💡 Tip: Before your trip, test your credit/debit card at home for international transactions and check for any foreign transaction fees.

Final Tips for a Smooth Trip

To make your trip stress-free, keep these final payment tips in mind:

✔️ Notify Your Bank before traveling to prevent credit card blocks.

✔️ Check ATM Locations in advance, especially if you’re visiting remote areas.

✔️ Carry Small Yen Bills (¥1,000, ¥5,000) for easier transactions.

✔️ Use Contactless Payment where available (Apple Pay, Google Pay, Suica, Pasmo).

By following these tips, you’ll be fully prepared for a seamless and enjoyable cycling adventure in Japan.

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