Over the past few years, if you've been keeping an eye on cashier registers in Japan, chances are you've spotted the logos of Apple Pay and Google Pay popping up quite frequently. It's not just a mere coincidence – these mobile payment giants have quietly but significantly become part of people’s daily transactions in the country, reshaping the way they handle payments. This article will explore both these platforms, highlighting their convenience to enhance your daily life in Japan.
What Are They?
Both Apple Pay and Google Pay are advanced mobile payment services designed to replace the use of physical plastic cards. All you need to do is download the app from either the Apple Store or Google Play Store onto your device, be it a smartphone or even a smartwatch. Once you've got the app, seamlessly integrate your debit card, credit card, or even a prepaid card. And just like that – you're ready to make payments through your device.
Think of it as carrying a futuristic digital wallet in your pocket, simplifying the process of making payments, particularly at establishments equipped with modern touch-and-go systems.
Apple Pay and Google Pay in Japan
These apps made their debut in Japan around 2016 and have since become widely embraced by merchants across the country. Today, you'll find a diverse array of stores, restaurants, and services that accept both Apple Pay and Google Pay as valid payment methods.
Linking your debit or credit card from major banks like Mizuho Bank, SMBC, and JP Post is a straightforward process. Additionally, you can integrate your Suica or Pasmo card and conveniently recharge it using your credit card directly from the app. If you've ever observed someone effortlessly passing through a train station gate with a simple tap of their phone or smartwatch, chances are they are utilizing either Apple Pay or Google Pay – a truly convenient and streamlined experience isn’t it?
When it comes to foreign debit or credit cards, the process is feasible, but caution is advised. While you can add and use them in Japan, it's worth noting that certain merchants may not accept them. The reason behind this lies in the transaction processing dynamics, where your bank and the seller's bank play pivotal roles.
Quick tip for smooth sailing: check for a Mastercard or Visa logo on your card, as these tend to have higher acceptance rates compared to other payment processors networks (what's a payment processor network? Check our article here). However, it's essential to acknowledge that these acceptance rates might still be relatively lower than those of Japanese-based debit or credit cards.
Getting Started with Them
For iPhone users, getting started is a breeze. Simply download the Apple Pay app onto your device, register your card within the app, and once it's verified, you're good to go. Apple provides step-by-step guides on their website for additional assistance:
How about the Android users? It will be quite complicated as the foremost requirement is that your phone has to have a FeliCa chip supporting Osaifu-Keitai in your phone. These kinds of smartphones are usually only sold in Japan. Thus, if you’re carrying an Android phone bought outside Japan, chances are it doesn’t support Osaifu-Keitai.
If you have a Japanese Android phone, then the process to use Google Pay would be quite similar to Apple Pay. Check the article below to get some useful tips on using Google Pay in Japan.
Is Now the Right Time to Use Them?
Let's break it down: deciding on Apple Pay and Google Pay really comes down to your own situation. If you're prone to misplacing your phone or happen to live in a spot where people still swear by cash, they might not be the most practical choice.
But, if the stars align in your favor, we'd say: give it a shot! Just picture not lugging around your wallet everywhere or fumbling for your Suica card every time you hop off a train or bus. These apps seriously dial up the convenience.
So, are you up for making your financial life in Japan a whole lot smoother? It's a game-changer!