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500 Best Credit Cards in Japan 2024

Our comparison service is NOT compensated by any credit card company. Our editorial team and our expert review board provide an unbiased analysis of the products we feature. We use stars rating method that is based on local Japanese feedback.

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GOld

"Airport Lounges Access"

Platinum

"High Social Status Card"

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Rakuten Black Card
Rakuten Premium Card

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All Japanese credit cards directory

JCBプラチナ

Fee: 27500

Cashback: 10.0%

The JCB Platinum Card offers an attractive point return of up to 10%.

SAISON CARD Digital

Fee: free

Cashback: 1.0%

This is a completely numberless digital card that can be issued in as little as five minutes.

Oliveフレキシブルペイ ゴールド

Fee: 5500

Cashback: 7.0%

This is a gold card that has a cash function as well as debit and point payment functions.

セゾンプラチナ・ビジネス・アメリカン・エキスプレス(R)・カード

Fee: 22000

Cashback: 1.0%

This is the Saison Platinum Card, which offers a variety of business support services.

au PAY カード

Fee: free

Cashback: 1.0%

Smartphones can be used with carriers other than au. This card makes it easy to accumulate Ponta points.

UCプラチナカード

Fee: 16500

Cashback: 1.2%

This is the UC Platinum Card, which comes with Visa Platinum benefits and has an annual fee of around 10,000 yen.

三菱UFJカード・プラチナ・アメリカン・エキスプレス(R)・カード

Fee: 22000

Cashback: 5.5%

This card offers the basic functions of a MUFG card and American Express Platinum services.

アメリカン・エキスプレス(R)・ビジネス・ゴールド・カード

Fee: 36300

Cashback: 0.5%

This is a business card for sole proprietors and corporate representatives that helps manage and reduce business expenses.

エポスゴールドカード

Fee: 5000

Cashback: 1.25%

This is a gold card that will waive the annual fee from the following year onwards depending on the amount of usage.

JCB CARD W plus L

Fee: free

Cashback: 10.5%

No annual fee, a choice of designs, and a secure numberless card with a cashback rate of up to 10.5%.

Conclusion

Choosing the right credit card in Japan can greatly enhance your financial flexibility and offer valuable rewards tailored to your lifestyle. 

Whether you’re looking for cards with cashback benefits, travel rewards, or low-interest rates, it’s essential to compare various options to find the one that best suits your needs. 

For instance, the JCB Platinum card offers exclusive travel rewards and concierge services, making it ideal for frequent travelers. 

If you prefer cashback, the 楽天カード allows you to earn Rakuten points on every purchase, which can be redeemed for various products and services. For those who shop at AEON malls, the イオンカード provides discounts and rewards at AEON stores. 

Additionally, the 三井住友カード ゴールド offers robust rewards for dining and shopping, along with comprehensive travel insurance. It’s also beneficial to check your credit score regularly through services like JICC or CIC, as a higher score can qualify you for more premium credit cards. 

Don’t forget to explore cards with no annual fees, such as the Orico Card THE POINT, which offers high point returns on purchases. 

By visiting comprehensive comparison sites like ポイ探 and クレジットカードの読みもの, you can further explore the benefits and drawbacks of each card. 

Understanding the terms and benefits of each card can help you make an informed decision and optimize your financial health.

FAQ

  • What are the best credit cards in Japan for foreigners?

    Some of the best credit cards in Japan for foreigners include the Rakuten Card, Sony Bank WALLET, and the JCB EIT Card. These cards offer various benefits like no annual fees, cashback, and rewards points. Additionally, they are relatively easier for foreigners to apply for and get approved.

  • How can I apply for a credit card in Japan as a foreigner?

    To apply for a credit card in Japan as a foreigner, you typically need to provide identification (such as a residence card), proof of income or employment, and a Japanese bank account. Some credit card companies also require a Japanese phone number and address. Online applications are available for many cards, and some banks offer English application forms.

  • What are the advantages of using a credit card in Japan?

    Using a credit card in Japan offers several advantages, including convenience for cashless payments, earning rewards points or cashback, and building a credit history. Additionally, credit cards often provide consumer protection benefits like purchase insurance and fraud protection.

  • Are there any annual fees for credit cards in Japan?

    Many credit cards in Japan offer no annual fees, especially popular ones like the Rakuten Card and the JCB EIT Card. However, premium credit cards with more benefits, such as the American Express Gold Card or the JCB Gold Card, may have annual fees ranging from ¥10,000 to ¥30,000 or more.

  • How do I earn and redeem credit card points in Japan?

    Credit card points in Japan can be earned by using your card for everyday purchases. Each credit card company has its own rewards program, such as Rakuten Points, T-Points, or ANA Mileage Club. Points can be redeemed for various rewards, including gift cards, discounts on purchases, travel miles, and even cash back.