Japan Credit Cards Market Expected to Reach USD 66.5 Billion by 2033 - IMARC Group

Japan Credit Cards Market Statistics, Outlook and Regional Analysis 2025-2033

The Japan credit cards market size was valued at USD 35.6 Billion in 2024, and it is expected to reach USD 66.5 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 7.2% from 2025 to 2033.

The increasing government efforts to promote cashless transactions are extensively driving the growth of Japan's credit card market. In addition, regulatory authorities of the nation have set a target an aim of a 40% cashless payment to promote a cashless society in the country by 2025. Public campaigns emphasizing on convenience and security, coupled with digital transformation strategies, have further strengthened consumer confidence in Japan.

Moreover, cryptocurrency integration into credit cards has gained traction in Japan, combining digital assets with traditional payment methods. Besides this, regulatory compliance and innovative features like "Pay-to-Earn" rewards aim to enhance accessibility, thereby offering a glimpse into the evolving synergy between blockchain technology and financial services. In December 2024, Slash Vision Labs collaborated with a credit card issuer in Japan to launch its first cryptocurrency-backed-backed credit card. The card is completely compliant with Japan's cryptocurrency and payment rules, with the goal of making cryptocurrency payments more accessible. Besides this, the growing number of international visitors to Japan significantly contributes to the country’s credit card market. Tourists rely heavily on credit cards for convenience and security, whether for shopping, dining, or accommodation. This demand has encouraged businesses across Japan to adopt more user-friendly payment systems, which is making credit cards increasingly essential for both visitors and locals.

Japan Credit Cards Market Statistics, By Region

The market research report has also provided a comprehensive analysis of all the major regional markets, which include Kanto region, Kansai/Kinki region, Central/ Chubu region, Kyushu-Okinawa region, Tohoku region, Chugoku region, Hokkaido region, and Shikoku region. Japan's robust e-commerce sector encourages credit card usage as a primary online payment method, thereby inflating the market.

Kanto Region Credit Cards Market Trends:

The rapid shift towards urban lifestyles is driving the growth of the Kanto region. Metropolitan areas are hosting numerous shopping complexes like Ginza Six, which generally encourages cashless transactions. Moreover, the rising number of international tourists has also prompted businesses in the Kanto region to integrate credit systems similar to visas, further accelerating the market growth.

Kansai/Kinki Region Credit Cards Market Trends:

The increasing number of local department stores like Hankyu in Osaka is driving the market growth in the Kansai/Kinki region. Moreover, consumers are opting for cards that offer specific benefits related to Kansai's cultural landmarks. In response to this, various key credit card companies are offering discounts on public transport, thereby expanding the market.

Central/Chubu Region Credit Cards Market Trends:

The increasing number of consumers across the Chubu region are looking for credit cards tied to the automotive industry. These include cards offering fuel discounts and maintenance perks at affiliated service stations like ENEOS. Consumers further benefit from reward programs focused on automotive needs, which is inflating the overall market.

Kyushu-Okinawa Region Credit Cards Market Trends:

The growing tourism across the Kyushu-Okinawa region has propelled the demand for travel-focused credit cards. Cards like ANA Mileage Club cater to frequent flyers visiting areas like Fukuoka and Okinawa’s beaches. Moreover, regional banks are also introducing cards that offer rewards for spending at resorts, further escalating the market growth.

Tohoku Region Credit Cards Market Trends:

The increasing government initiatives across the Tohoku region are positively influencing the market growth. Moreover, various banks across the region, like 77 Bank, have launched cards offering cashback on purchases from local shops. Moreover, many residents are adopting credit cards for convenience, particularly for online shopping and public transport.

Chugoku Region Credit Cards Market Trends:

The rising tourism in Hiroshima is acting as one of the key growth-inducing factors in the Chugoku region. The iconic Itsukushima Shrine attracts international tourists, encouraging local shops to adopt credit card payments. Besides this, JR West's co-branded credit cards offer travel perks for Shinkansen users, which is further accelerating the market growth.

Hokkaido Region Credit Cards Market Trends:

Hokkaido is becoming a popular winter sports destination. Moreover, ski resorts in the region like Niseko promote cashless payments for lift passes and accommodations, which is further propelling the adoption of credit cards. Also, the increased credit card usage for ticket sales in Sapporo has supported the market demand.

Shikoku Region Credit Cards Market Trends:

Pilgrimage routes like the Shikoku Henro in the region are witnessing increased credit card adoption among small businesses. Local accommodations and souvenir shops now accept cards, supported by government incentives for cashless systems. Regional events like the Awa Odori Festival in Tokushima further encourage card use for entry tickets and food stalls.

Top Companies Leading in the Japan Credit Cards Industry

Some of the key players are Japan Post Bank Co. Ltd., JCB Co. Ltd., Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group Inc., Mizuho Financial Group Inc., Rakuten Card Co. Ltd., Resona Holdings Inc., Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group Inc., and The Shizuoka Bank Ltd. In November 2024, Mizuho Bank, Ltd. and Rakuten Card Co., Ltd. launched a co-branded credit card. Besides this, in December 2024, Slash Vision Labs announced the introduction of the first cryptocurrency-backed credit card that is set to be available in 2025 across Japan. This card is fully compliant with the crypto regulations of the country.

Japan Credit Cards Market Segmentation Coverage

• On the basis of the card type, the market has been bifurcated into general-purpose credit cards and specialty and other credit cards. General-purpose credit cards are accepted widely across various merchants. On the other hand, specialty credit cards cater to specific needs, like travel rewards cards for regular flyers. Both types continue to improve user experience, thereby stimulating the segment.
• Based on the application, the market has been bifurcated into food and groceries, health and pharmacy, restaurants and bars, consumer electronics, media and entertainment, travel and tourism, and others. Credit cards often offer cashback or points on the purchases of food and groceries. Apart from this, health and pharmacy include spending on medications. Moreover, expenditures on restaurants and bars by credit cards offer discounts. Besides this, the expanding tech-savvy population of the country adopts these cards to purchase electronic items. The widespread consumption of digital media is further propelling the market. The flexibility offered by credit cards is elevating their applications in non-traditional areas.
• On the basis of the provider, the market has been bifurcated into visa, MasterCard, and others. Visa dominates the segment. Visa credit cards are issued by various financial institutions and are accepted throughout the world. Moreover, they are known for their seamless transaction processes and various rewards, thereby augmenting consumers to use them.