The cashless payment rate in Japan is only 20%, according to Bloomberg. Why do you think Japan remains a highly cash-dependent society?

Because they don't have a proper debit card system in place. If they did many more people would use it.

Probably a similar reason why banks have a curfew on ATMs while convenience stores don't. Symbiosis of old fashioned and modern practical needs - or something like that.

Because Japan is highly resistant to change and modernity. It is at its heart an old fashioned country that clings to the current way of doing things.

I noticed it's not easy to get a credit card. I tried 3 times to get one from my bank, and was rejected each times.

Although I'm a full-time employee, with job security, a decent salary, and no family to take care of.

So I imagine it may be hard to get one for people who work part time, have low wages, or have someone dependent on them.

The joy of carrying a thick wad of notes in one's wallet? At least, I like it!

I noticed it's not easy to get a credit card. I tried 3 times to get one from my bank, and was rejected each times.

@Bintaro, try joining a fitness club, where often the only way they want you to pay is company credit card linked to your bank account, accepting zero cash. Don't worry - they want customers, as 'business is business'.

Or Yu-cho - they threw 2 Saison cards at me.

Older established banks are just that - old. Try Seven or Shinsei or flashy newer ones even like Aeon.

If Bloomberg shows cashless payment rate in Japan is only 20% it's because it's pointless the way of westernized finance companies approach the Japanese society. The easiest way to demonstrate well the cashless use should be starting to explain what are the differences of cash card, debit card and credit card. Most know how to use cash cards to withdraw money, but the others are unclear...From some problems of criminal expert skimming your card, or when you lose the card and inform your bank /finance company, what will happen next, you spend many hours and days to get it renewed (cash cards the same). Quick conclusion should be taken from the bank or financial company to feel ease using cards. It is convenient to some (them of financial business) but not-convenient to others (we the people) in Japan.

@inkochi

I apply for a revolving payment card. I got it easily, but I don't recommend it to anyone.

That makes it 3) Easily obtainable credit cards are inconvenient.

Because they don't have a proper debit card system in place.

This, and

ATM withdrawals cost money

ATMs close after 9 pm. smh

Im not too sure but I believe you will not receive any interest when saving money.

Also, I like that I sometimes find some cash I put in my sock or pockets that I forgot putting there.

Because It's easier to launder cash?

There is a huge black/grey economy in Japan.

Japan is a democracy, and most people prefer cash.

Because no one wants to report just how much money they earn or spend to the government and understandably so.

As an annual visitor to Japan for the past ten years, always carrying enough cash for the six to eight weeks I'm scooting around, I can only say it's convenient and simple. KISS, remember? Japan may be high-tech where it's important, but the low-tech use of cash is not going to disappear anytime soon. And I like that.

Can't beat cold, hard cash.

"The joy of carrying a thick wad of notes in one's wallet? At least, I like it!"

Could I borrow your wallet for a day just to experience this joy? lol

I paid cash in a pub for two drinks today and the transaction was over in a couple of seconds, much quicker than using a card. No security issues with cash, either. Just because the mass media tells us that we are all going cashless, that is no reason for the average Japanese person to believe it or even to be attracted to the idea.

Tradition.