How to Pay in Japanese Restaurants: Guide for Travelers

Japanese restaurants use various payment methods. Here, we introduce three common types. Each method is easy to understand, even for foreign visitors.

1. Paying at the Register with a Bill

This is the most common payment method. After finishing your meal, you will receive a bill at your table. The staff may say, “Please pay at the register.” You take the bill to the cashier and make your payment. Cash, credit cards, and electronic money (such as transportation IC cards) are usually accepted.

Examples:

Japanese restaurants
Set meal restaurants (Teishoku-ya)
Some cafes
Izakaya (Japanese pubs, especially chain restaurants)

Note: Some restaurants do not accept credit cards, so it is good to carry some cash.

2. Table Check Payment

In some restaurants, you can pay directly at your table. The staff will bring a tablet or a portable payment terminal, allowing you to complete the payment without leaving your seat. This method is especially common in upscale restaurants and some cafes.

Examples:

Fine dining restaurants
Some cafes
Izakaya (Japanese pubs)

Note: A service charge may be included in the bill at some high-end restaurants.

3. Prepayment (Fast Food Style)

Fast food and casual restaurants often require payment before receiving your food. After ordering, you pay at the counter before getting your meal. Payment can be made with cash, credit cards, or electronic money. Recently, many restaurants, such as McDonald’s, have introduced self-ordering machines for cashless transactions.

Examples: