Japan Joins France, Singapore, Mauritius, Nepal, Peru, and Sri Lanka in Global Rollout of UPI Payments for Indian Tourists – Here’s What You Need to Know

Indian tourists visiting Japan will soon enjoy a more convenient payment option, as the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) will be introduced across the country. This collaboration between NPCI International Payments Ltd. (NIPL), the global arm of India’s National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), and NTT DATA Japan, a subsidiary of the prominent NTT DATA Group, marks a milestone in the world of international transactions. The move, expected to simplify payments for Indian tourists, will allow them to make secure payments using their UPI apps, a method they are already familiar with, and avoid carrying large amounts of cash or using foreign exchange cards.

This collaboration will bring UPI payment capabilities to Japan, marking the first time this service is available in East Asia. The initiative is expected to launch soon, allowing Indian travelers to use their UPI-enabled apps to scan QR codes and make purchases at select merchants across Japan.

Why UPI Payments in Japan Matter to Indian Tourists

The introduction of UPI payment facilities in Japan offers a huge benefit for Indian tourists. Travelers will be able to make payments directly through their smartphones, making transactions faster, easier, and safer. This move aligns with global efforts to reduce reliance on cash and promote digital payments.

The NTT DATA Japan partnership will provide merchants in Japan with the capability to accept UPI payments through QR codes, a payment method already widely used by Indian consumers. This means tourists can skip the hassle of exchanging currency or relying on foreign exchange cards while shopping, dining, or exploring Japan. This development aims to make the trip more seamless and enjoyable for Indian visitors.

UPI Payments Are Already a Hit in Other Countries

Japan is not the first destination to adopt UPI payments for Indian tourists. UPI is already widely accepted in several other countries, including France, Singapore, Mauritius, Nepal, Peru, and Sri Lanka. This growing network is expected to expand to more countries in the coming years, making international travel more convenient for Indian tourists.

The adoption of UPI payments has significantly enhanced the travel experience for many, especially when it comes to managing finances during a trip. With digital payments becoming a norm, UPI presents a secure, simple, and cost-effective method of payment that is gaining global traction.

How Will the UPI Payment System Benefit Indian Tourists in Japan?

The introduction of UPI payment facilities in Japan will not only benefit Indian tourists but also Japanese merchants. The digital payment system will allow them to tap into a growing market of Indian visitors, making it easier for them to capture business from this demographic. As more than 200,000 Indian tourists visited Japan between January and August 2025, this shift in payment methods aligns with the growing need for local businesses to accommodate Indian consumers.

Moreover, the presence of UPI payments will likely lead to better integration between Indian and Japanese banking systems, simplifying transactions for both tourists and merchants. It will make payments faster, while reducing transaction fees compared to traditional foreign exchange cards.

What Should Travelers Know About UPI Payments in Japan?

For Indian tourists heading to Japan, here’s what you need to know:

1. Check UPI Compatibility: Make sure that your UPI app is up-to-date and compatible with international payments.
2. Merchant Participation: While most merchants will soon accept UPI payments, it’s still essential to confirm with the shopkeeper if the option is available before making your purchase.
3. Use QR Codes for Transactions: Transactions can be made by scanning the QR code at participating merchants using your UPI app.
4. No Need for Foreign Exchange: Since UPI payments will be accepted, there is no immediate need to carry large amounts of cash or convert money into Japanese Yen, which can save travelers on conversion fees.
5. Data Security: UPI payments offer a secure platform, with transactions being encrypted to prevent fraud, giving travelers peace of mind when paying for goods or services.
6. Explore Japan with Ease: With the convenience of digital payments, travelers can focus more on exploring Japan rather than worrying about currency exchange.

Tips for Indian Tourists Traveling to Japan

• Currency Exchange: While UPI can cover many purchases, it’s a good idea to carry a small amount of cash for places that might not yet accept digital payments.
• SIM Card/Internet Access: Make sure your phone has internet access, as UPI apps require an active data connection to function.
• Download Local Maps and Apps: Having a map app or a travel guide can help you navigate unfamiliar areas, especially where UPI payments may not yet be available.
• Learn Basic Japanese Phrases: While many businesses in Japan cater to tourists, learning a few Japanese phrases can enhance your experience and ease communication.

Why Is Japan Moving Towards UPI?

Japan has long been known for its technological advancements, and the country is no stranger to digital payments. By introducing UPI, Japan aligns itself with global payment trends, offering a safer and more convenient alternative for foreign tourists. The collaboration with NTT DATA Japan, which operates CAFIS, Japan’s largest card payment network, strengthens this shift toward digital transactions.

With the increasing number of Indian tourists visiting Japan, this development is a natural next step in fostering economic and cultural exchange between the two countries. By reducing the complexity of managing finances while abroad, UPI payments will allow Indian tourists to have a smoother and more enjoyable experience.

In Summary

The introduction of UPI payments in Japan marks a significant step in the world of international travel and digital payments. This collaboration between NPCI International Payments Ltd. and NTT DATA Japan will make it easier for Indian tourists to shop and make payments using the familiar UPI app. It promises to offer greater convenience, enhanced security, and a more seamless travel experience for visitors from India, while benefiting local merchants by attracting more customers.

The post Japan Joins France, Singapore, Mauritius, Nepal, Peru, and Sri Lanka in Global Rollout of UPI Payments for Indian Tourists – Here’s What You Need to Know appeared first on Travel and Tour World