Global Major Cities Guide

Sections

1. General Overview of Credit and Debit Card Usage in Hiroshima

While Japan has traditionally been a cash-centric society, credit and debit card usage has become increasingly common in recent years, especially in urban areas like Hiroshima. However, cash is still widely used, particularly in smaller establishments and rural areas. As a visitor, you’ll find that cards are accepted in many places, but it’s always wise to carry some cash for situations where cards are not an option.

2. Accepted Card Types

The most commonly accepted credit and debit cards in Hiroshima include:

Visa and Mastercard: Widely accepted in most hotels, department stores, chain restaurants, and tourist attractions.
JCB: A Japanese card brand that is also widely accepted, especially in domestic businesses.
American Express (AmEx): Accepted in many mid-to-high-end establishments, but less so in smaller shops or restaurants.
Diners Club: Accepted in some high-end locations but not as common as Visa or Mastercard.
UnionPay: Increasingly accepted in tourist-heavy areas, including Hiroshima.

Note: Discover cards are often linked to JCB in Japan, so they may work in places that accept JCB.

3. Where Cards Are Commonly Accepted

Here’s a breakdown of where you can expect to use your card in Hiroshima:

Restaurants and Cafes

High-end and chain restaurants: Most mid-range to high-end restaurants, as well as international and Japanese chain restaurants (e.g., Starbucks, McDonald’s, or local chains like CoCo Ichibanya), accept credit and debit cards.
Small, independent eateries: Many smaller, family-run restaurants (e.g., izakayas, ramen shops, or okonomiyaki stalls) may only accept cash. Hiroshima is famous for its okonomiyaki (savory pancakes), and many of the smaller specialty shops in the Okonomimura food village are cash-only.
Cafes: Larger or chain cafes often accept cards, but smaller, independent coffee shops may not.

Shops and Retail

Department stores and malls: Major shopping centers like Hondori Shopping Arcade, Sogo Hiroshima, and Aeon Mall Hiroshima accept cards.
Convenience stores: Chains like 7-Eleven, Lawson, and FamilyMart accept cards, including international ones.
Smaller shops and markets: Local souvenir shops, street vendors, and traditional markets (e.g., Hiroshima’s Asaichi morning market) often operate on a cash-only basis.

Transportation

Trains and buses: Cards are generally not accepted for local transportation. Instead, you’ll need to use cash or a prepaid IC card like ICOCA (Hiroshima’s regional IC card) for trains, buses, and trams.
Taxis: Many taxis in Hiroshima now accept credit cards, but it’s best to confirm with the driver before starting your ride. Some taxis also accept IC cards.
Ferries: Ferries to popular destinations like Miyajima Island often accept cards, but it’s good to have cash as a backup.

Tourist Attractions

Major attractions like the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, Hiroshima Castle, and Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island generally accept cards. However, smaller attractions or local guides may only take cash.

4. Additional Fees and Currency Conversion Considerations

When using your card in Hiroshima, keep the following in mind:

Foreign Transaction Fees: Check with your bank or card issuer about foreign transaction fees, which typically range from 1-3% of the purchase amount.
Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC): Some merchants may offer to charge your card in your home currency instead of Japanese yen. While this might seem convenient, it often comes with unfavorable exchange rates. It’s usually better to pay in yen.
ATM Withdrawals: If you need cash, ATMs at 7-Eleven, Post Offices, and some FamilyMart locations accept international cards (Visa, Mastercard, AmEx, etc.) and offer instructions in English. Be aware of withdrawal fees from both the local ATM and your home bank.

5. Cultural and Local Tips for Using Cards

Cash is still king: Always carry a reasonable amount of cash (in yen) for smaller purchases, transportation, and emergencies. Hiroshima is a modern city, but you may encounter situations where cards are not accepted.
Politeness matters: When handing over your card, it’s customary to use both hands or place it on the small tray provided at the counter. This is a sign of respect.
Receipts: Keep your receipts, as they may be required for returns or disputes. Japanese receipts often include detailed information, which can be helpful for tracking expenses.
IC Cards for convenience: If you’re staying in Hiroshima for a while, consider getting an ICOCA card. While it’s primarily for transportation, it can also be used for small purchases at convenience stores, vending machines, and some shops.

6. Handling Situations Where Cards Are Not Accepted

If you find yourself in a situation where cards are not accepted:

Carry cash: Always have some yen on hand. ¥1,000 and ¥5,000 bills are commonly used, and coins are essential for smaller purchases.
Plan ahead: Before visiting smaller restaurants, shops, or attractions, check their payment policies online or call ahead if possible.
Use ATMs strategically: If you run out of cash, head to a 7-Eleven or Post Office ATM, as these are the most reliable for international cards.
Split payments: If you’re traveling with others, pooling cash can help cover expenses in cash-only establishments.

7. Final Tips

Notify your bank: Inform your bank or card issuer of your travel plans to avoid your card being flagged for suspicious activity.
Check card compatibility: Ensure your card is enabled for international use and has a chip, as chip-and-PIN cards are standard in Japan.
Download a currency converter app: This can help you quickly calculate prices in your home currency and avoid overspending.

By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be well-prepared to navigate Hiroshima’s mix of modern convenience and traditional charm. Enjoy your trip!