While cash is still used, Japan is rapidly moving towards a cashless society.
Using a payment app on your smartphone is not only convenient but also rewards you with points.
But can foreigners use these Japanese “Pay” apps?
The answer is a resounding YES!
This guide will show you the best apps for foreigners and how to set them up, step-by-step.
Why Go Cashless in Japan?
- Convenience: No more fumbling for coins. Just scan and go!
- Points & Rewards: Earn points on every purchase, which can be used for discounts later.
- Hygiene: A touch-free way to pay.
- Widely Accepted: Usable at most convenience stores, supermarkets, drugstores, restaurants, and more.
The Key Requirement: A Japanese Phone Number
To use most Japanese payment apps, including PayPay, you will need a Japanese phone number for SMS verification.
The easiest way for a traveler to get one is by using an eSIM (digital SIM card).
You can purchase one online before your trip and activate it upon arrival in Japan.
This will give you data and a phone number to use right away.
Top 2 Recommended Apps for Foreigners
The most important factor for foreigners is how easy it is to register and add money.
Based on this, we highly recommend these two apps.
1. PayPay: The No. 1 App in Japan
PayPay is the most popular payment app in Japan, accepted almost everywhere.
If you can only choose one app, this is it.
The easiest way for foreigners to add money is to use a Seven Bank ATM (found in any 7-Eleven) to charge your account with cash.
2. LINE Pay: Perfect for LINE Users
If you already use the messaging app “LINE,” then LINE Pay is a great secondary option.
Just like PayPay, you can easily charge your account with cash at a Seven Bank ATM.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Set Up and Use PayPay
Let’s walk through the process using PayPay as an example.
Step 1: Download the App and Register
- Download the PayPay app from the App Store or Google Play.
- Open the app and enter your Japanese phone number.
- You will receive an SMS with a verification code. Enter the code to complete your registration.
Step 2: Charge with Cash at a Seven Bank ATM
This is the key step for most foreigners!
- On the ATM screen, select “Smartphone Transactions.”
- In your PayPay app, tap “Charge,” then select “Seven Bank ATM.”
- A QR code will appear on the ATM screen. Scan it with your PayPay app.
- The ATM will prompt you to insert cash. Insert the bills you want to charge.
- Confirm the amount, and the money will be instantly added to your PayPay balance!
Source: diamond-rm.net
Step 3: Pay at a Store
There are two main ways to pay:
Method A: Show Your Barcode
In the PayPay app, tap the “Pay” button and show your barcode to the cashier for them to scan.
Method B: Scan the Store’s QR Code
Tap “Scan” in the app, scan the QR code at the counter, enter the amount, and tap “Pay.”
To go cashless in Japan, the easiest and most reliable path is:
Get a Japanese phone number → Download PayPay → Charge with cash at a Seven Bank ATM.
With this, your shopping experience in Japan will become much smarter and more enjoyable.
You Might Also Like
Now that you’re ready to pay, learn about one of the best places to use cashless payments: the Japanese convenience store.
The Ultimate Guide to Japanese Convenience Stores: Your 24/7 Lifesaver
