24 Essential Japanese Phrases for Paying by Cash or Card
Paying in Japan can be a breeze when you know just the right phrases. Whether you’re using cash or card, a little language prep goes a long way.
From convenience stores to restaurants, knowing how to ask about payment makes your experience smoother and more enjoyable. It’s all about feeling confident and connected.
Japanese payment phrases aren’t as tricky as they seem. With a few basics under your belt, you’ll handle transactions like a local.
Ready to dive into 24 essential phrases that cover everything from casual to polite? You’ll be equipped to pay effortlessly and maybe even impress the cashier!
Learning these phrases also opens the door to cultural nuances around money and etiquette, making your trip even richer. Plus, it’s a fun way to boost your Japanese skills in real time.
Let’s get started with easy, practical phrases that you can use right away when paying by cash or card in Japan.
Getting Comfortable with Payment Phrases
Before jumping into specific phrases, it’s good to get familiar with some basics. This makes everything less intimidating when you’re at the register.
Japanese payment often involves polite exchanges, but don’t worry—you’ll start simple and build up naturally. Knowing just a few key words can really boost your confidence.
These phrases cover both cash and card payments, so you’re ready for any situation.
Sometimes, using a great beginner phrasebook can give you a perfect starting point for a cohesive understanding.
Once you’ve got these basics, it’s easier to connect with locals and make paying less stressful.
Try repeating phrases out loud or listening to native speakers online for a natural feel. It’s a simple trick that can be applied right away.
Part 1: Casual Suggestions
1. これでお願いします (Kore de onegaishimasu) – koh-reh deh oh-neh-gai-shee-mah-su
This phrase means “I’d like to pay with this, please.”
It’s super handy because you can simply point to your cash or card and say it. It’s polite but casual enough for everyday use, making transactions smooth.
Perfect for beginners, as it avoids complicated grammar and shows respect.
Using this phrase lets the cashier know exactly what you’re offering to pay with.
Related phrase: これで払います (Kore de haraimasu) means “I will pay with this.”
Start practicing this one to feel more natural when handing over your payment.
2. 現金で払います (Genkin de haraimasu) – gen-keen deh hah-rye-mah-su
This means “I will pay in cash.”
It’s easy to remember because “genkin” means cash and “haraimasu” means to pay. Try saying it next time you want to be clear about using cash.
Always useful when you want to be direct and polite.
Be careful not to confuse “genkin” with “ginkou” (bank), which is different.
Example: When asked, “How will you pay?” you can reply with this phrase confidently.
It’s a straightforward way to communicate your payment method clearly.
3. カードで払います (Kaado de haraimasu) – kah-ah-doh deh hah-rye-mah-su
This phrase means “I will pay by card.”
“Kaado” is the loanword for card, and “haraimasu” means to pay, making it easy to put together.
It’s commonly used and understood everywhere in Japan where card payments are accepted.
Say this phrase clearly when handing over your card to avoid confusion.
Related phrase: カードでお願いします (Kaado de onegaishimasu) is a softer, polite version meaning “With card, please.”
Knowing this phrase saves time and avoids awkward moments at the register.
4. お釣りはいりません (Otsuri wa irimasen) – oh-tsu-ree wah ee-ree-mah-sen
This means “I don’t need change.”
It’s useful when you want to leave a tip or round up your payment. “Otsuri” means change, and “irimasen” means don’t need.
It’s polite and clear, showing good manners.
Keep in mind, tipping isn’t common in Japan, but this phrase helps in specific situations.
Example: When paying 950 yen with 1,000 yen, say this phrase to avoid receiving 50 yen back.
Use it to speed up transactions and be courteous.
5. 電子マネーで払えますか？ (Denshi manee de haraemasu ka?) – den-shee mah-neh deh hah-rah-eh-mah-su kah?
This phrase means “Can I pay with electronic money?”
“Denshi manee” refers to electronic payment like Suica or PASMO cards. It’s handy to ask if you’re unsure which payment types are accepted.
Adding “ka” at the end makes it a question, perfect for polite inquiries.
Be mindful of pronunciation to sound natural.
Example: Use this phrase before trying to tap your card or phone at a store.
It’s a great way to avoid awkward refusals and keeps your payment flow smooth.
6. レシートください (Reshiito kudasai) – reh-shee-toh koo-dah-sah-ee
This means “Please give me the receipt.”
“Reshiito” is the loanword “receipt,” and “kudasai” means please give me. It’s polite and widely used.
Very useful if you want proof of purchase or need receipts for reimbursements.
Don’t forget to say this before leaving the counter.
Example: After paying, simply say this phrase to get your receipt handed over.
It’s a small phrase that makes you look organized and polite.
7. 分割で払えますか？ (Bunkatsu de haraemasu ka?) – boon-kaht-soo deh hah-rah-eh-mah-su kah?
This phrase means “Can I pay in installments?”
“Bunkatsu” means split or installment, and “haraemasu” is the polite form of pay. It’s handy for big purchases like electronics.
Adding “ka” turns it into a polite question.
Don’t assume all stores offer installments—always ask first.
Example: When buying an expensive item, use this phrase to clarify payment options.
It’s a smart phrase to avoid surprises at checkout.
8. サインをお願いします (Sain o onegaishimasu) – sigh-n oh oh-neh-gai-shee-mah-su
This means “Please sign here.”
“Sain” is the loanword “sign,” and “onegaishimasu” adds politeness. It’s common when paying by card requiring signature.
Knowing this phrase helps you respond smoothly when asked to sign.
Don’t be shy to ask for clarification if you don’t understand.
Example: After handing over your card, wait for the cashier to say this.
It’s a phrase that keeps the payment process flowing without confusion.
Part 2: Polite & Formal Suggestions
9. お支払いは現金ですか？ (O-shiharai wa genkin desu ka?) – oh-shee-hah-rai wah gen-keen dess kah?
This means “Will you be paying in cash?”
“O-shiharai” is a polite way to say payment, “wa” marks the topic, and “desu ka” turns it into a question.
It’s a common question from staff, so knowing it helps you respond naturally.
Try to listen carefully and prepare your answer.
Example: Simply answer “はい、現金です (Hai, genkin desu)” which means “Yes, cash.”
Politeness goes a long way in formal settings like department stores.
10. カードはご利用いただけますか？ (Kaado wa go-riyou itadakemasu ka?) – kah-ah-doh wah goh-ree-yoh ee-tah-dah-keh-mah-su kah?
This phrase means “Is it possible to use a card?”
It’s very polite, using “go” and “itadakemasu” to show respect.
Great for asking in formal shops or restaurants.
Remember, some places might only accept cash, so this question saves you time.
Example: Use this to politely confirm before ordering or buying.
It’s a respectful way to clarify payment methods.
11. お支払い方法を教えていただけますか？ (O-shiharai houhou o oshiete itadakemasu ka?) – oh-shee-hah-rai hoh-hoh oh oh-shee-eh-teh ee-tah-dah-keh-mah-su kah?
This is a formal way to say “Could you please tell me the payment methods?”
It’s a respectful phrase to use when you want detailed info.
Perfect for department stores, hotels, or service counters.
Use it to show you’re eager to follow the rules and be polite.
Example: When unsure about payment options, this phrase gets you the info you need.
It’s a phrase that builds good rapport and smooth transactions.
12. ご一緒にお預かりいたしますか？ (Go-issho ni o-azukari itashimasu ka?) – goh-eesshoh nee oh-ah-zoo-kah-ree ee-tah-shee-mah-su kah?
This means “Would you like to pay together?”
It’s a polite way to ask if multiple people want to combine payments.
Useful when shopping with friends or family.
Be mindful that “itadakimasu” is a humble verb form showing respect.
Example: When buying gifts together, this phrase helps clarify the payment process.
It’s a great phrase to keep things organized and polite.
13. こちらでよろしいでしょうか？ (Kochira de yoroshii deshou ka?) – koh-chee-rah deh yoh-roh-shee dess-hoh kah?
This phrase means “Is this okay here?” or “Is this amount correct?”
It’s often used by cashiers to confirm payment or receipt details.
Knowing this helps you respond politely.
Answer with “はい、ありがとうございます (Hai, arigatou gozaimasu)” meaning “Yes, thank you.”
Example: When the cashier shows your change or receipt, this phrase confirms the process.
It’s a polite way to keep communication smooth during payment.
14. お支払いは別々でよろしいですか？ (O-shiharai wa betsubetsu de yoroshii desu ka?) – oh-shee-hah-rai wah bet-su-bet-su deh yoh-roh-shee dess kah?
This means “Is it okay to pay separately?”
It’s useful when paying with a group, asking if splitting the bill is fine.
Helps avoid confusion and awkwardness.
Make sure to listen carefully to the answer so you know how to proceed.
Example: When dining out with friends, this phrase comes in handy.
It’s a respectful way to manage group payments.
15. お手数ですが、お願いします (O-tesuu desu ga, onegaishimasu) – oh-teh-soo dess gah, oh-neh-gai-shee-mah-su
This phrase means “Sorry to trouble you, but please…”
It’s a polite way to ask for help, like requesting a refund or payment confirmation.
Shows humility and respect, which is appreciated in Japan.
Use it to soften your requests or questions.
Example: “お手数ですが、領収書をお願いします” means “Sorry to trouble you, but please give me a receipt.”
It’s a phrase that smooths over any awkward or complex payment moments.
16. クレジットカードは使えますか？ (Kurejitto kaado wa tsukaemasu ka?) – koo-reh-jee-toh kah-ah-doh wah tsu-kah-eh-mah-su kah?
This means “Can I use a credit card?”
It’s a polite and direct question to confirm payment options.
Simple to remember as “tsukaemasu” means can use.
Helps avoid embarrassment when you’re not sure if cards are accepted.
Example: Ask this before you pull out your card to avoid confusion.
It’s a polite way to check payment methods in formal places.
Part 3: Very Casual / Native-like Expressions
17. これで払うね (Kore de harau ne) – koh-reh deh hah-rah-oo neh
This phrase means “I’ll pay with this, okay?”
It’s very casual and often used among friends or in informal settings.
The “ne” at the end softens the statement, making it sound friendly.
Not suitable for formal occasions but great for markets or casual shops.
Example: Paying a small snack vendor with cash, this phrase feels natural and relaxed.
Using casual phrases helps you blend in with locals in everyday contexts.
18. カードでいい？ (Kaado de ii?) – kah-ah-doh deh ee?
This means “Is paying by card okay?”
Short and casual, it’s perfect for quick chats with friends or younger people.
“Ii” means good or okay, making it very easy to use.
Avoid this in formal settings to keep respect intact.
Example: When splitting a bill with friends, just ask this to confirm payment method.
It’s a handy phrase for casual, everyday situations.
19. おつりいらないよ (Otsuri iranai yo) – oh-tsu-ree ee-rah-nai yoh
This means “I don’t need change.”
Very casual, with “yo” adding emphasis or friendliness.
Use among friends or in relaxed shops, not formal places.
Great for showing generosity or simply speeding up payment.
Example: Handing a 1,000 yen note for a 900 yen purchase.
Casual phrases like this make interactions feel natural and easy.
20. これでいいよ (Kore de ii yo) – koh-reh deh ee yoh
This means “This is fine” or “This works.”
It’s a relaxed way to confirm payment or accept change.
“Ii” means good, and “yo” adds a friendly tone.
Use casually with friends or at informal shops.
Example: When the cashier offers change, saying this shows you’re good with the amount.
It’s a simple phrase that keeps things easy-going.
21. サインいらないよ (Sain iranai yo) – sigh-n ee-rah-nai yoh
This means “No signature needed.”
Casual and quick, perfect if you want to decline signing politely.
“Ira nai” means don’t need, and “yo” adds friendliness.
Useful when paying with cards that don’t require signatures.
Example: When the cashier asks for a signature, you can say this to clarify.
It keeps the process smooth and casual.
22. ポイント使っていい？ (Pointo tsukatte ii?) – poyn-toh tsu-kah-tteh ee?
This means “Can I use points?”
“Pointo” is points, “tsukatte” is the -te form of use, and “ii?” asks if it’s okay.
Great for casual conversations when using loyalty or reward points.
Perfect for younger or familiar settings.
Example: Asking if you can apply points to your purchase at a store.
It’s a handy phrase to save money and sound natural.
23. いくらになる？ (Ikura ni naru?) – ee-koo-rah nee nah-roo?
This means “How much will it be?”
Very casual and common among friends or in informal shops.
“Ikura” means how much, and “ni naru” means to become or total.
Not for formal settings but perfect for quick price checks.
Example: When browsing at a flea market or small shop.
Casual phrases like this help you connect casually with locals.
24. カード使える？ (Kaado tsukaeru?) – kah-ah-doh tsu-kah-eh-roo?
This means “Can I use a card?” but very casual.
Short and direct, often used among younger people or friends.
“Tsukaeru” means can use.
Avoid in formal or polite situations.
Example: Quickly asking a friend or shop clerk about card payment.
It’s a useful phrase for casual, everyday payment chats.
Concluding Thought
Mastering these 24 essential Japanese payment phrases lets you approach transactions with ease and confidence. Whether you’re casual or formal, you now have the right words to fit the situation.
Remember, practice makes perfect—and using these phrases will help you feel more connected and at home during your travels. Plus, it’s a great way to show respect and appreciation for Japanese culture.
So go ahead, try them out, and enjoy your time paying like a pro in Japan!