Indian tourists visiting Japan could soon enjoy seamless digital payments using India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI). This development comes after NPCI International Payments Ltd (NIPL) signed a key partnership with NTT DATA Japan, a move expected to simplify payments for Indian travelers while promoting cashless transactions in Japan.
What This Partnership Means
1. UPI for Indian Tourists
The collaboration between NIPL and NTT DATA Japan aims to integrate UPI into Japan’s merchant ecosystem. Indian travelers will be able to scan QR codes at stores and restaurants across Japan, paying directly via familiar UPI apps like Google Pay, PhonePe, or Paytm.
2. Leveraging NTT DATA’s CAFIS® Network
NTT DATA Japan operates CAFIS®, the country’s largest card payment processing network. By connecting UPI to CAFIS®, the initiative ensures secure and reliable transactions, enabling Indian tourists to use their UPI apps just like they do in India.
3. Simplifying Cross-Border Payments
This move not only benefits tourists but also enhances Japan’s cashless adoption strategy, creating a convenient, secure, and efficient payment system for visitors from India.
Why This is Significant
Global Expansion of UPI: NPCI is rapidly working to establish UPI as a trusted international payment system, and this marks a key step in that vision.
Increasing Indian Travelers: Over 208,000 Indian visitors traveled to Japan between January and August 2025 — a 36% increase compared to the same period in 2024. The new UPI integration meets the growing demand for digital payment options among Indian tourists.
Tourist-Friendly Experience: With UPI acceptance, Indian tourists can avoid currency exchange hassles and enjoy a familiar, convenient payment method while shopping, dining, or sightseeing.
Benefits for Indian Tourists
Ease of Use: Scan QR codes at restaurants, hotels, and retail outlets.
Secure Payments: Transactions processed via trusted UPI infrastructure.
Time-Saving: No need to carry large amounts of cash or exchange currency.
Budget Management: Track spending directly through UPI apps.
How It Works
Open Your UPI App: Use Google Pay, PhonePe, Paytm, or any UPI-enabled app.
Scan the Merchant QR Code: UPI-compatible merchants in Japan will display QR codes.
Enter Amount & Pay: Authorize payment with PIN as you would in India.
Receive Instant Confirmation: The transaction is secure and completed instantly.
FAQs
1. When will UPI be available in Japan?
The exact launch date hasn’t been officially announced, but the partnership is underway, and rollout is expected soon.
2. Which UPI apps can be used?
Popular apps like Google Pay, PhonePe, Paytm, and other UPI-enabled apps will be compatible.
3. Will all merchants in Japan accept UPI?
Initially, UPI will be available at major retailers, restaurants, and hotels, expanding over time.
4. Is it safe to use UPI abroad?
Yes, UPI transactions are secure, encrypted, and authenticated through trusted apps and NTT DATA’s CAFIS® network.
5. Can I use UPI for large purchases?
Yes, transactions follow the same limits and safety protocols as in India.
Published on : 14th October
Published by : SMITA
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