Cashless Japan

Pocket WiFi vs eSIM vs SIM Card in Japan: How Tourists Should Stay Connected (2026)

Comparison of eSIM, Pocket WiFi and SIM card options for staying connected in Japan in 2026, with scenario-based recommendations for solo travellers, groups, and long-stay guests.

2026.04.29

Travel Tips

Japanese Yen Banknotes and Coins: A Tourist’s Guide (2026)

Old vs new banknotes after the July 2024 redesign, the mystery of the 2,000-yen note, foreign-card ATMs, and where cash still beats cards in Japan.

2026.04.28

Travel Tips

Suica, Welcome Suica, and Japan’s IC Cards: A Traveler’s Guide (2026)

How to buy, charge, and use Suica, Welcome Suica, PASMO, and ICOCA in Japan in 2026 — with the latest on Welcome Suica Mobile, the new Tourist Pasmo, and what changed after the IC chip shortage.

2026.04.28

Travel Tips

Vending Machines in Japan: A Complete Guide for Tourists (2026)

Japan has about 3.93 million vending machines — roughly one per 31 to 32 people. This 2026 guide covers what they sell, how to pay with cash or IC card, why most machines only take 1,000-yen notes, and how the recent TASPO and 2024 banknote changes affect tourists.

2026.04.28

Travel Tips