Planning a trip to Japan and wondering if you can use your YouTrip card there? This guide covers all you need to know about that!
“Can YouTrip be used in Japan?” is a common question we get from travellers headed to the Land of the Rising Sun. The good news? Yes, you can – and it’s definitely one of the most convenient ways to manage your travel spending ✨
That said, there are some important things to note when it comes to paying in Japan. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know – from whether you still need cash to handy tips on making the most out of your YouTrip card while exploring Japan. 🇯🇵
All you need to know about using cards (including YouTrip) in Japan
Can I use cards in Japan?

Japan has long been known for being a cash-first society – and while cash is still king in some spots, debit and credit card acceptance has improved significantly in recent years, especially in major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
- ✅ Visa and Mastercard cards (including YouTrip!) are widely accepted in tourist-friendly areas – such as hotels, major retail chains, department stores, city restaurants, and convenience stores (like 7-Eleven and Lawson).
- 💴 However, smaller eateries, temples, vending machines, market stalls, and countryside establishments may still be cash-only.
- 📱 Japan also has its own cashless payment culture: IC cards like Suica, Pasmo, and ICOCA are commonly used for transport and small purchases. Mobile wallets like Apple Pay, as well as QR code payments (like PayPay) are quickly gaining traction too.
Can YouTrip be used in Japan? – guides for a hassle-free Japan trip 👇🏻
Can YouTrip be used in Japan?

Yes – YouTrip can be used in Japan anywhere Mastercard is accepted! As a prepaid multi-currency travel card, YouTrip is a great option for travellers looking to avoid hidden fees, pay with competitive exchange rates, and manage spending on the go.
Here are some tips for using YouTrip in Japan:
- 💳 Pay directly with your YouTrip card at stores displaying the Mastercard logo – or check with the cashier if they accept card payments.
- 🏧 Need cash? Withdraw cash from ATMs in Japan using your YouTrip card! We recommend using 7-Eleven ATMs as they’re tourist-friendly, easy to find, support English, and offer fee-free withdrawals.
- 📱 Add your YouTrip card to Apple Pay for hassle-free payments. You can also use it to top up your virtual Suica card, making transport a breeze.
- 💹 Make use of YouTrip’s in-app currency exchange feature to lock in favourable JPY rates anytime, anywhere! This is perfect for travellers keeping an eye on the yen ahead of their Japan trip.
- 🎢 Book your Japan flights, tours, hotels, and attraction tickets online with your YouTrip card. Many online booking platforms charge in local currency (JPY) – paying with a card like YouTrip can help you save on exchange rate markups and avoid foreign transaction fees. Plus, earn cashback via YouTrip Perks!
Can YouTrip be used in Japan? – helpful guides for you 👇🏻
👉🏻 SGD to Yen Guide: Capitalizing On The Japanese Yen
👉🏻 Japan ATM Withdrawal Guide 2025
Comparing exchange rates across different cards
Curious how YouTrip’s Japanese Yen exchange rates stack up against other cards? Here’s a breakdown of how much you’ll be charged when spending 100,000 JPY in Japan 🇯🇵:
Payment Method | SGD to JPY rate (as of 29 May 2025) | Fees | SGD charged for 100,000 JPY |
YouTrip card | 1 SGD = 112.5 JPY | $0 | S$888.89 👑 |
DBS credit card | 1 SGD = 111.35 JPY | up to 3.25% | S$929.72 |
OCBC credit card | 1 SGD = 111.34 JPY | up to 3.25% | S$929.81 |
Revolut card | 1 SGD = 112.33 JPY | $0 (1% on weekends) | S$890.11 |
🔎 Based on rate and fee comparisons, YouTrip offers the most competitive JPY exchange rate. That means you’ll pay less SGD for the same amount of JPY spent – in fact, you can save up to S$41 with YouTrip compared to using a typical bank credit card! ✨
These savings may seem small in a glance, but can add up significantly with big purchases and long trips.
Can YouTrip be used in Japan? – saving & shopping tips! 👇🏻
👉🏻 10 Ways To Save Money In Japan
👉🏻 10 Must-Buy Items At Don Quijote in Japan
Ready for your trip to Japan?

Using YouTrip in Japan is not only possible – it’s smart! You’ll get better rates than traditional credit cards or money changers, and you can skip those pesky foreign transaction fees. That said, it’s always a good idea to carry some backup cash as Japan isn’t fully cashless yet.
Whether you’re planning to hunt down the freshest sushi or shop to your heart’s content – YouTrip lets you pay smart, spend smooth, and travel better. Have a fun trip to Japan!
📱 Maximize your savings for your trip to Japan with a fee-free card like YouTrip! Download the YouTrip app and sign up with code <YTBLOG5> to get FREE S$5 in your account upon registration 💜
More articles you may enjoy:
- JR Pass 101: All You Need To Know About The Japan Rail Pass
- The Ultimate Universal Studios Japan (USJ) Guide
- 12 Best Hotels in Osaka From S$56/Night
