First Move
Look for the register before trying to pay at your seat.
Quick steps
- Check if there is a bill slip on your table or tray.
- If there is one, take it to the register.
- If there is no bill slip, look for a register or ask staff.
- Place your cash or card on the payment tray if there is one.
- Take your receipt and change before you leave.
Don’t Do This
Don’t leave money on the table unless the system clearly works that way.
In many restaurants and shops, payment should happen at the register.
Don’t tip.
Tipping is not expected in Japan and can confuse staff. A simple thank you is enough.
Say or show this
Use these phrases to speak or point when you need help.
Use when you want the bill.
Okaikei onegaishimasu.
お会計お願いします。
The bill, please.
Use when you want to ask if cards are accepted.
Kaado wa tsukaemasu ka?
カードは使えますか？
Can I pay by card?
Use when you want to ask if it is cash only.
Genkin dake desu ka?
現金だけですか？
Is it cash only?
If You See or Hear This
Okaikei desu ka?
お会計ですか？
It means: Are you paying?
Your move
Say yes or show your bill slip.
Reji de onegaishimasu.
レジでお願いします。
It means: Please pay at the register.
Your move
Take your bill slip or items to the register.
Genkin nomi desu.
現金のみです。
It means: Cash only.
Your move
Pay with cash. If you do not have enough, ask staff what to do.
If You’re Stuck
Look for the small tray or payment terminal near the register. Many places use a tray for cash, coins, and receipts. If you pay by card, staff may ask you to insert or tap it yourself.
Tiny Culture Note
Payment in Japan is often quiet and structured. The tray helps make the exchange clear and polite.
Need to explain food needs?
After you order, it may be hard to change the dish. If you need to avoid ingredients, show a simple Japanese card before ordering.
Food needs
Create a food card for Japan
Show allergies, dietary needs, or ingredients to check before ordering.
No app needed
Save as image
Point-to-reply answers