When choosing a credit card, the most important factor for many is the point return rate. Using a high-yield card for daily shopping and fixed costs can lead to massive savings. In this article, we rank and compare the top 5 highest-yield credit cards available in Japan.
1. Sumitomo Mitsui Card Gold (NL)
This card has taken the market by storm, offering up to 7.0%+ point returns when using touch payment at designated convenience stores and restaurants.
- Base Rate: 0.5%
- Max Rate: 7.0%+ (conditions apply)
- Annual Fee: 5,500 JPY (free forever after spending 1M JPY in a single year)
2. Rakuten Card
The absolute staple card in Japan, offering an unmatched return rate (always 3.0%+) when shopping on Rakuten Ichiba.
- Base Rate: 1.0%
- Max Rate: 15.0%+ (during SPU program campaigns)
- Annual Fee: Free Forever
3. Recruit Card
Boasting an impressive base rate of 1.2% regardless of where you spend, this card is optimal for general daily expenses.
- Base Rate: 1.2%
- Annual Fee: Free Forever
4. PayPay Card
An essential companion card for PayPay users, maximizing benefits when linked directly to the PayPay app.
- Base Rate: 1.0%
- Max Rate: 1.5% - 2.0%
- Annual Fee: Free Forever
5. d Card GOLD
Ideal for Docomo mobile users, returning 10% on monthly Docomo phone and internet bills.
- Base Rate: 1.0%
- Max Rate: 10.0% (on Docomo services)
- Annual Fee: 11,000 JPY
Summary
- For convenience stores & dining: Sumitomo Mitsui Card Gold (NL)
- For Rakuten ecosystem users: Rakuten Card
- For overall high yields everywhere: Recruit Card
Choose the card that best aligns with your daily lifestyle!\n