Money & Currency

At a Glance: How to Pay in Okinawa

• Introduction to Okinawa’s Currency
• Quick Facts About Japanese Yen
• Where to Exchange Currency
• Finding ATMs for Foreign Cards
• Understanding Payment Methods: Cash, Card & IC
• Sample Costs & Budgeting
• Tipping and Payment Etiquette
• Insider Tips & Common Mistakes
• Tourist Perspective on Money in Okinawa
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Final Thoughts for Your Trip

Introduction to Okinawa’s Financial Landscape

Welcome to Okinawa, a unique island prefecture of Japan offering stunning beaches, rich culture, and delicious cuisine. To fully enjoy your trip without financial hiccups, understanding the local currency and payment methods is key. This comprehensive okinawa money guide will equip you with all the essential information, from where to exchange your currency to how to navigate daily transactions.

While Japan is a technologically advanced nation, Okinawa, particularly outside its urban centers and major resorts, still maintains a strong preference for cash. Preparing for this blend of traditional and modern payment systems will ensure a smooth and stress-free experience as you explore everything the islands have to offer.

From grabbing a quick meal at a local soba shop to paying for ferry tickets to a remote island, knowing your payment options and having the right currency on hand will make all the difference. Let’s dive into the specifics of managing your money in Okinawa.

Quick Facts About Japanese Yen

• Official Currency: Japanese Yen (JPY / JTN)
• Symbol: ¥
• Kanji/Kana: 円 (en)
• Common Coin Denominations: ¥1, ¥5, ¥10, ¥50, ¥100, ¥500
• Common Banknote Denominations: ¥1,000, ¥5,000, ¥10,000 (¥2,000 notes are rare)
• Tipping Culture: Not customary or expected in Japan, including Okinawa.
• Payment Preference: Cash is essential, especially outside major urban and tourist areas.

Where to Exchange Currency in Okinawa

Exchanging your foreign currency for Japanese Yen is straightforward in Okinawa, with several convenient options available upon arrival and within major cities.

Naha Airport (OKA)

Your most convenient option immediately upon arrival is Naha Airport. Currency exchange counters are located in both the international and domestic arrival lobbies.

• Travelex: Located in the International Arrivals Lobby 1F. Operating hours are typically 8:00 – 21:00, though it’s always wise to check their official site for the most current information due to potential volatility.
• Bank of Okinawa: Found in the Domestic Arrivals Lobby 1F. Hours are generally 9:00 – 15:00 on weekdays, with similar volatility, so checking in advance is recommended.

Major Banks

For potentially slightly better rates than the airport, major banks such as Bank of the Ryukyus and Bank of Okinawa offer exchange services at their main branches in cities like Naha. However, this option is less convenient than the airport. Remember to bring your passport, as it is required for all currency exchange transactions at banks.

It is generally recommended to exchange a small amount of currency before your trip or immediately upon arrival at Naha Airport to cover initial expenses like transportation or a quick meal.

Finding ATMs for Foreign Cards

Accessing cash from ATMs in Okinawa is generally reliable, especially if you know which networks to use. Not all Japanese ATMs accept international cards, so focusing on the most compatible ones is crucial.

• Seven Bank ATMs: These are your best bet for foreign cards and are widely available. You’ll find them inside 7-Eleven convenience stores, which are numerous across Okinawa’s main islands. They operate 24/7 (store hours permitting), offer an English-language interface, and accept a broad range of international cards including Visa, Plus, Mastercard, Maestro, Cirrus, Amex, and JCB.
• Japan Post Bank ATMs: Located within post offices, these ATMs also boast a high acceptance rate for international cards. Be aware that post office hours can be more limited, especially in smaller towns, compared to 7-Eleven stores.
• E-net ATMs: Often found in FamilyMart and Lawson convenience stores, these also accept many international cards.

Be mindful of daily withdrawal limits, which can be set by both the Japanese bank (often ¥50,000 – ¥100,000 per transaction) and your home bank. Additionally, expect to incur fees from both the Japanese ATM provider and your home bank for international withdrawals.

Understanding Payment Methods: Cash, Card & IC

Navigating payment methods in Okinawa requires a hybrid approach. While cashless options are growing, cash remains indispensable for many transactions.

Cash (現金 – Genkin)

Cash is absolutely essential in Okinawa. Despite increasing cashless options, particularly in Naha and at tourist resorts, many parts of Okinawa, especially local businesses and rural areas, remain cash-based. Always carry a sufficient amount of Japanese Yen.

• Cash is often required for: Small local restaurants (such as soba shops and shokudo), food stalls at public markets (e.g., Makishi Public Market), entry fees for smaller attractions, parking fees at some beaches, ferry tickets at small island ports, and local buses if you do not possess an IC card.

Credit/Debit Cards (クレジットカード)

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted at larger establishments. You can reliably use them at hotels, car rental agencies, airports, department stores, large supermarkets, and many restaurants located in urban areas like Naha.

• Accepted Cards: Visa and Mastercard are the most reliable and widely accepted. JCB, being a Japanese card, is universally accepted. American Express and Diners Club are accepted less frequently.
• Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC): When using your card, if a terminal offers you the choice to pay in JPY or your home currency, always choose JPY. This avoids poor exchange rates set by the merchant’s bank.

IC Cards (Suica, Pasmo, etc.)

Major Japanese IC cards like Suica, Pasmo, and ICOCA can be used to pay for rides on the Yui Monorail and on most major bus routes on Okinawa’s main island. This compatibility began in March 2020.

OKICA

OKICA is Okinawa’s local transportation IC card. Unlike mainland IC cards, OKICA can be purchased and recharged locally. However, its use is primarily limited to the monorail and buses and it is not widely accepted for shopping or other purchases.

QR Code Payments (PayPay, LINE Pay, etc.)

While QR code payment apps like PayPay and LINE Pay are very popular among residents, they generally require a Japanese phone number and bank account, making them inaccessible to most short-term tourists. Some larger stores or international chains may accept Alipay or WeChat Pay, but this is not universal.

Sample Costs & Budgeting

Understanding typical costs can help you budget your cash and card usage. Prices are estimates for 2024 and are subject to volatility.

Item	Estimated Price (JPY)
Okinawa Soba Meal	¥800 – ¥1,200
Goya Champuru Set Meal	¥1,000 – ¥1,500
Orion Draft Beer	¥500 – ¥600
Sanpin-cha (vending machine)	¥120 – ¥160
Yui Monorail Ride (Naha)	¥240 – ¥370
One-day Bus Pass (main island)	approx. ¥2,500
Churaumi Aquarium Adult Ticket	¥2,180
Budget Hotel/Guesthouse (per night)	¥5,000+
Mid-range Hotel (per night)	¥15,000+
Compact Car Rental (per day, excl. fuel)	¥5,000 – ¥8,000

Tipping and Payment Etiquette

Understanding local customs around money can enhance your travel experience and avoid awkward situations.

• Tipping: There is no custom of tipping in Japan, including Okinawa. It is not expected and can sometimes be considered confusing or even impolite. Excellent service is standard and is already included in the price you pay.
• Paying at Restaurants: In most restaurants, you typically take your bill to a cashier near the entrance or exit to pay, rather than paying at your table.
• Paying in Shops: In small shops and at cash registers, it’s common practice to place your cash or card on the small tray provided, rather than handing it directly to the cashier.

Insider Tips & Common Mistakes

• Common Mistake: Arriving in Okinawa with no Japanese Yen, assuming you can pay for everything by card. You will likely immediately need cash for transport from the airport if you plan to take a bus.
• Common Mistake: Relying solely on your home bank’s ATM locator. Trust the proven networks: Seven Bank (in 7-Eleven stores) and Japan Post Bank (in post offices) for international card acceptance.
• Time-Saving Tip: If you plan to use public transport extensively and already have a Suica or Pasmo card from mainland Japan, top it up with a large amount before you fly to Okinawa. Remember, you cannot recharge it locally.
• Local Insight: Always have smaller bills and coins on hand. Small vendors, especially at markets or local eateries, may struggle to make change for a ¥10,000 note for a small purchase.
• What to Avoid: Exchanging currency at your hotel. The rates offered are typically very poor compared to official exchange counters at the airport or major banks.
• Financial Prep: Inform your bank and credit card companies of your travel dates and destinations to prevent them from flagging your transactions as fraudulent and potentially blocking your cards.

Tourist Perspective on Money in Okinawa

From the perspective of international visitors, Okinawa presents a slightly different financial landscape compared to major Japanese cities like Tokyo or Osaka.

• Frequent Question: “How much cash should I bring to Okinawa?” The consensus among travelers is to budget more cash for Okinawa than you might for mainland Japanese cities. A safe estimate is to have at least ¥10,000 – ¥20,000 in cash per person at all times, especially if venturing outside Naha or visiting smaller islands.
• Frequent Confusion: The usability of Suica/Pasmo cards. Many tourists are surprised to learn that while these cards can be used for transport, they cannot be purchased or topped up locally in Okinawa. This often leads to frustration if not anticipated.
• Cultural Context: The complete absence of a tipping culture is often a point of relief for visitors from countries where tipping is customary, though it can sometimes cause initial confusion.

Frequently Asked Questions About Money in Okinawa

Do I really need cash in Okinawa in 2025?

Yes, absolutely. While cashless payment options are increasing, especially in Naha and at tourist resorts, cash remains essential for many small restaurants, local markets, rural areas, and most of the smaller islands. A balanced “cash and card” hybrid approach is highly recommended for your trip.

Can I use my credit card everywhere in Okinawa?

No, not everywhere. Major hotels, car rental agencies, department stores, and chain restaurants will generally accept credit cards. However, many smaller, independent, and often more authentic local businesses, particularly those outside Naha, operate on a cash-only basis.

Can I use my Suica card on the bus in Okinawa?

Yes, you can use major Japanese IC cards like Suica on most major bus lines on the main island and on the Yui Monorail. However, it’s crucial to remember that you cannot buy a new Suica card or add money to your existing one anywhere in Okinawa. You must bring a pre-loaded card from mainland Japan.

Are US dollars or other foreign currencies accepted?

No. The only currency accepted for transactions throughout Okinawa and the rest of Japan is the Japanese Yen (JPY). You must exchange your foreign currency into JPY before or upon arrival to make purchases.

Where is the best place to find an ATM that works with my foreign card?

The most reliable and widespread ATMs for international cards are located inside 7-Eleven convenience stores (Seven Bank ATMs) and at Post Offices (Japan Post Bank ATMs). These typically offer English interfaces and accept a wide range of international card networks.

Final Thoughts for Your Trip

Navigating currency and payments in Okinawa is straightforward once you understand the local preferences and available resources. The key takeaway from this okinawa money guide is to embrace a hybrid approach: always carry a sufficient amount of Japanese Yen, especially smaller denominations, while also being prepared to use your credit or debit card at larger establishments.

By planning your currency exchange, knowing where to find reliable ATMs, and understanding the limitations of IC cards, you’ll be well-prepared to enjoy the beautiful islands of Okinawa without any financial worries. Enjoy your journey!