Best Japanese Credit Cards for Rewards and Cashback 2026

Maximize points, miles, and cash back in Japan’s credit card market

Introduction

If you’re living in or traveling to Japan, choosing the right credit card with rewards and cashback benefits can save you hundreds — even thousands — of dollars a year. With many options available, it’s critical to understand which cards offer the highest value for everyday spending, travel perks, and flexible redemption.

This guide breaks down the top Japanese credit cards, their reward structures, benefits, fees, eligibility, and how to choose the best one for your lifestyle.

Why Choose a Rewards or Cashback Credit Card in Japan

Earning rewards and cashback isn’t just a perk — it’s a smart financial strategy. The right card allows you to:

Earn cash back on daily purchases (supermarkets, dining, gas)
Collect reward points redeemable for travel, gift cards, and more
Enjoy exclusive offers, airport lounge access, and travel protection
Offset annual fees with benefits that outweigh costs

Whether you’re a frequent traveler, expat resident, or shopper, choosing the ideal card helps you get more value from your spending.

Key Features to Compare Before Applying

Before you pick a card, consider these criteria:

🔎 Reward Rate

A card with a higher reward rate earns more points/cashback per yen spent.

🔎 Welcome Bonus

Many cards offer large bonus points after you spend a certain amount within the first months.

🔎 Annual Fee

Some cards charge an annual fee, but benefits may exceed the cost if your spending qualifies.

🔎 Redemption Options

Points can usually be redeemed for:

Statement credits
Travel
Gift cards
E‑commerce vouchers

🔎 Foreign Transaction Fees

Important if you shop abroad or make online purchases from overseas vendors.

Top Japanese Credit Cards for Rewards & Cashback (2026)

Here are the leading options worth considering:

1. Rakuten Card

Best for everyday rewards and online shopping

Reward rate: up to 3%
No annual fee
Earn points redeemable at Rakuten services and partners
Frequent bonus campaigns

📈 Ideal for: Daily purchases and e‑commerce users

2. JCB CARD W / W Plus L

Great for high point earnings across categories

Reward rate: 1–5%
No annual fee
Bonus points on specific categories
Lower age eligibility (18+)

📈 Ideal for: Young professionals and lifestyle spenders

3. ANA JCB Card

Perfect for frequent airline travelers

Points convert to ANA miles
Travel perks and mileage bonuses
Annual fee varies by tier

📈 Ideal for: Frequent flyers and travel rewards hunters

4. American Express® Gold Card (Japan)

Rich travel and lifestyle benefits

Generous rewards on dining and travel
Travel insurance and premium perks
Higher annual fee

📈 Ideal for: High spenders and travelers

5. Orico Card THE POINT

Excellent for cash back and online shopping

Reward rate: 1%
No annual fee
Bonus rewards for the first 6 months
Easy redemption

📈 Ideal for: Cashback seekers and new cardholders

Credit Card Comparison Table — Rewards, Fees & Perks

Credit Card	Reward Rate	Welcome Bonus	Annual Fee	Best For
Rakuten Card	Up to 3%	Yes	¥0	Everyday rewards & e‑commerce
JCB CARD W / W Plus L	1–5%	Yes	¥0	High earn rates
ANA JCB Card	Up to 1.5% (miles)	Yes	Varies	Travel & airline miles
American Express® Gold (JP)	1–2%	Yes	Moderate	Travel & premium perks
Orico Card THE POINT	1% + bonus	Yes	¥0	Cashback & simple redemption

How Reward Programs Work in Japan

Understanding how rewards are earned and redeemed is key:

🟢 Earn

You accumulate points or miles for every yen spent.

🔁 Bonus Categories

Many cards offer higher multipliers for categories like:

Online shopping
Dining and groceries
Travel and hotel bookings

💳 Redeem

Rewards can be used for:

Statement credits
Merchandise
Partner travel bookings
Gift vouchers

Tips to Maximize Points, Miles, and Cashback

To get the best value:

✔ Use your card for high‑spend categories (utilities, groceries)

✔ Take advantage of bonus point periods

✔ Link to partner services (Rakuten, airlines, etc.)

✔ Use portal shopping for extra multiplier points

Pro tip: Stack offers — use partner promotions + card bonuses at the same time.

Eligibility & Application Tips

Most cards require:

A stable income or employment
Residence in Japan
A valid Japanese bank account (required by most issuers)

For some premium cards, credit history and spending patterns are considered.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Which credit card gives the most cashback in Japan?

A: Cards like Rakuten Card and Orico Card THE POINT often lead in everyday cashback.

Q: Are foreign residents eligible?

A: Yes — as long as you meet income and residency requirements.

Q: Can I redeem points for travel?

A: Many cards let you convert points into airline miles or use them on partner travel services.

Choose Based on Your Spending

Every card has strengths — some reward frequent travel, others are better for daily spending or online purchases. Your best card is one that fits your life and helps you earn meaningful benefits without unnecessary fees.