Japan Travel Fixes
Why don't some stores in Japan accept credit cards?
Many small, family-run restaurants, izakaya, and local shops — especially outside major cities — are still cash-only due to the cost of card processing fees. Always carry some cash as a backup, even in Tokyo.
Card acceptance has improved a lot in recent years, but small independent restaurants, older shops, temple/shrine donation boxes, and some rural businesses still only take cash.
A cash-only sign may only be in Japanese, so if a card machine isn't visible at the register, it's safer to ask before you order.
Convenience stores (7-Eleven, Lawson, FamilyMart) almost always accept cards and IC cards, and their ATMs are reliable for withdrawing cash with a foreign card.
Ask before you order if you're not sure
カードは使えますか？
Kaado wa tsukaemasu ka?
Can I use a card?