Three Bears Travel Site

Japan: Japanese Yen (JPY). Cash is still widely used, especially in smaller shops, rural areas, and temples. Credit cards are commonly accepted in major hotels, department stores, and restaurants in big cities.
China: Chinese Yuan (CNY / Renminbi). While cash is accepted, mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely used. Some international credit cards may not work in smaller shops, so it’s advisable to carry some cash or use mobile payment apps.

Japan: Visa, Mastercard, and JCB are widely accepted in urban areas. ATMs at post offices, 7-Eleven stores, and major banks usually accept international cards.
China: UnionPay is the most common network. Visa and Mastercard are accepted in major hotels, malls, and international stores, but not everywhere. Carrying cash or using mobile payments is recommended for convenience.

Japan: Apple Pay and Google Pay are gradually accepted in large stores and public transport, but cash is still essential in rural areas.
China: Alipay and WeChat Pay dominate daily transactions, from taxis to street food. Some international cards can now be linked to these apps, but check compatibility before your trip.

Japan: Airports, banks, and post offices are the safest places. Avoid unofficial money changers.
China: Use banks, official hotel exchanges, or airport counters. Avoid street exchangers to prevent scams.

ATM withdrawals: Japan and China may charge international card fees. Check with your bank before traveling.
Mobile payments: Linking an international card may incur foreign transaction fees.
Cash declaration limits: Japan: over ¥1,000,000 must be declared. China: over CNY 20,000 must be declared.

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