Cash, cards, payments, and money-related tips for traveling in Japan.
Date: 2026-01-02 (JST) Japan offers tax-free shopping at over 50,000 locations, ranging from giant electronics retailers to local souvenir shops. For foreign travelers, knowing where to find these stores and what they offer is key to efficient shopping. This guide…
Current date: 2026-01-02 (JST) Verdict First: Who Japan Is Better For If you have only five days for your first international trip and want a predictable experience where plans are less likely to fall apart, Japan generally works better. The…
Date: 2026-01-01 (JST) Japan’s tax-free shopping system allows foreign visitors to purchase goods without paying the 10% consumption tax, but this benefit comes with strict conditions. Many travelers misunderstand these rules, leading to confusion at the store or costly mistakes…
Current date: 2025-12-25 (JST) This article explains the operating hours of Japanese banks and post offices, particularly during the New Year holiday. It details which ATMs remain operational, how to handle currency exchange, and provides a checklist to help foreign…
Current date: 2025-12-20 (JST) This article explains the new airport refund process starting November 1, 2026. It is not a guide to finding tax-free stores. It is a practical explanation of the new rules to help you avoid losing your…
