Comprehensive List of Businesses Accepting Bitcoin｜Guide to Domestic and Online Payments

What Is Bitcoin Payment?

Bitcoin payment refers to a method of making payments using Bitcoin (BTC), a type of cryptocurrency. Unlike electronic payment systems such as Suica or PayPay, Bitcoin does not have a centralized issuer like a company or a bank. Instead, it is managed on a decentralized network through blockchain technology.

In recent years, Bitcoin has become increasingly accessible as a payment method. It is now accepted at electronics stores, restaurants, online shops, and even for public utility payments. The flea market app Mercari’s adoption of Bitcoin payments has made it even more convenient for everyday users.

Bitcoin vs. Electronic Money: Key Differences

Bitcoin and conventional electronic money differ in several important ways. The table below compares their main characteristics.

Electronic money is issued and managed by companies and banks, providing price stability. Bitcoin operates on a decentralized network and is known for significant price fluctuations. While electronic money is mostly accepted by domestic merchants, Bitcoin can theoretically be used globally—though actual acceptance is still limited.

Benefits and Mechanism of Bitcoin Payments

Bitcoin payments are powered by blockchain technology, which enables network participants to manage transaction records in a decentralized way. Once recorded, information cannot be deleted or altered, ensuring robust security and transparency. The absence of a central administrator makes the system resilient against downtime and single points of failure, operating reliably 24/7.

Key advantages of Bitcoin include:

• Global, low-cost transfers 24/7: Send money anywhere in the world, anytime, without restrictions from banking hours or borders. International remittances are significantly cheaper and faster than traditional bank transfers.

• Enhanced privacy protection: Unlike credit cards, you don’t need to provide personal information (name, address, card number, etc.), reducing the risk of data leaks. Bitcoin transactions use only addresses, with no personal identifiers.

• Direct transactions: Funds can be transferred directly between sender and recipient without intermediaries, eliminating third-party fees. Transaction approval is also distributed across network participants, not dependent on any one institution.

Risks and Precautions When Using Bitcoin Payments

Bitcoin payments also come with the following risks and considerations. It’s crucial to understand these before you start using them.

• Significant price volatility: Bitcoin’s market-driven price can fluctuate dramatically—even by tens of percent in a single day. Payment values aren’t guaranteed, so you may pay more or less than expected depending on timing. For example, 1 BTC could be worth ¥5,000,000 in the morning and ¥4,500,000 by evening.

• Payments are generally non-cancelable and non-refundable: Due to blockchain’s structure, transactions are essentially irreversible once sent. This prevents double-spending but also makes it difficult to correct errors or process refunds. Unlike other payment methods, there’s no chargeback, so it’s critical to verify counterparty trustworthiness before transacting.

• User bears sole responsibility for management: Without a central administrator, wallet passwords (private keys) are entirely your responsibility. Lost private keys cannot be recovered, and if leaked, assets can be stolen. There’s no password reset or fraud protection as with bank accounts, so rigorous security management is necessary.

Is Bitcoin Suitable for Everyday Payments?

Currently, due to volatility and convenience factors, Bitcoin is better suited for international transfers, large-value transactions, or as an investment asset—rather than for frequent, everyday purchases. For places like convenience stores that require fast, small, high-volume payments, stable electronic money remains more practical.

However, innovations like the Lightning Network are improving transaction speed and lowering fees for small payments. When using Bitcoin payments, it’s important to understand their features and risks, and to choose situations that fit your needs. Bitcoin works well for overseas travel, international online shopping, or high-value purchases, but electronic money is still more practical for daily coffee or convenience store shopping.

Three Popular Bitcoin Payment Methods

There are several ways to pay with Bitcoin. Here are three beginner-friendly methods, each suited to different scenarios and needs.

QR Code Payment

This method uses your smartphone wallet app to scan a QR code. When the payment amount is set at a store or online shop, a QR code (containing the Bitcoin address and amount) is displayed. You simply open your wallet app and scan the code to complete the payment.

Features and Advantages

• Easy and accurate: No need to manually enter long Bitcoin addresses (typically 26–35 characters), reducing input errors. QR codes include both the address and amount, preventing mistakes.

• Widely adopted: This is the standard method for most Bitcoin-accepting merchants, making it the most versatile option.

• Beginner-friendly: As intuitive as using cash or electronic money—just scan the QR code with your phone for instant payment, no special knowledge required.

Precautions

• Standard on-chain payments can require several minutes to tens of minutes for blockchain confirmation. For small transactions, merchants often provide goods immediately, skipping confirmation—so in practice, delays are rarely an issue. Some stores will hand over products below a certain amount without waiting for blockchain approval.

Lightning Network (Fast Payments)

The Lightning Network is an innovative solution that dramatically improves Bitcoin’s transaction speed and fee structure. It uses dedicated "channels" to process transactions off-chain in real time, solving problems of slow and expensive Bitcoin payments.

Features and Advantages

• Instant payments: Transfers are completed almost immediately. While on-chain transactions can take around 10 minutes, Lightning payments finish in seconds, so you rarely wait at checkout.

• Low fees: Minimal charges, suitable for small payments (even a few yen). Traditional Bitcoin transfers incurred fixed fees regardless of amount, but Lightning enables transfers for less than a few yen.

• Perfect for daily purchases: Ideal for coffee, fast food, and other small transactions. Instant processing and low fees make everyday use highly practical.

Examples

• El Salvador: The national "Chivo" wallet uses Lightning Network for daily payments at local merchants.

• US Cash App: With about 47 million users, Cash App provides Bitcoin transfers via Lightning Network.

• Major exchanges and payment companies: Firms such as Block (backed by Twitter founder Jack Dorsey) and other industry leaders are adopting the Lightning Network.

Precautions

• Supported wallets and stores are growing, but coverage remains limited. As technology matures, rapid expansion of supported merchants is expected.

Wallet-Integrated Payments (Automatic Integration)

This method launches your wallet directly from the payment screen on a website or app, automatically entering the amount and address. Users simply click a button to complete the transaction.

Features and Advantages

• Excellent user experience: Pressing "Pay" automatically opens the wallet app with the recipient address and amount pre-filled. Just check and confirm—payment is done smoothly.

• Minimizes errors: No manual entry required—easy for beginners. Eliminates risks like mistyping addresses or entering incorrect amounts.

Examples

• Vandle Card prepaid card BTC charge: One-tap Bitcoin charging via the app.

• Online shops using Coinbase Commerce or BitPay: Many e-commerce sites use these services to offer wallet-integrated payments.

Precautions

• You must install a supported wallet beforehand. Common options include MetaMask, Trust Wallet, and Coinbase Wallet.

• Supported services are currently limited, but adoption is growing. As major e-commerce platforms add support, more users will benefit.

These are the principal Bitcoin payment methods. QR code payments are the most popular; Lightning Network and wallet integration are poised for further growth. Choose the method that fits your needs for seamless Bitcoin payments.

Bitcoin-Accepting Stores and Services in Japan

Below are major stores and services in Japan that accept Bitcoin payments. Adoption is expanding among big chains, with electronics retailers, restaurants, beauty clinics, travel agencies, and more now offering Bitcoin as a payment option.

* "Payment speed" indicates whether payment is instant or requires blockchain confirmation.

* Note: Megane Super temporarily suspended service in the past due to system issues. Please verify with individual stores before use.

Precautions for In-Store Bitcoin Payments

Large chains introduced Bitcoin payments to meet the needs of inbound tourists. Electronics retailers, in particular, adopted Bitcoin early to handle high-value purchases. By contrast, convenience stores—which require instant, high-frequency processing—do not currently offer Bitcoin payments due to the time required for transaction approval.

Small, independent restaurants often skip dedicated payment terminals, instead having staff manually confirm transactions. In these cases, blockchain approval may take several minutes to ten minutes, so allow extra time when using Bitcoin. During busy periods, waiting times can increase—check with the store ahead of time if possible.

Major Online Shops and Services Accepting Bitcoin in Japan

Bitcoin payments are increasingly accepted on Japanese online services and e-commerce sites. Online implementation is generally easier than in physical stores, so a broad range of services now supports Bitcoin payments. Here are some leading examples:

Service Features and Precautions

• Mercari: Available to all users via "Merpay" for instant payments. Amounts are processed as yen in-app, so there’s no blockchain confirmation waiting. Note: "Mercari Shops" items are not eligible—confirm before purchase.

• Bic Camera.com: Instant payment via bitFlyer (up to ¥100,000 per transaction, same as in-store). Bic points are awarded at the same rate as cash, making it ideal for point collectors.

• Bitcoinmall: Payments are sent directly from your wallet and require about 10 minutes for blockchain confirmation. Supports Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies.

• Nichigas (Nippon Gas): First Japanese gas company to support crypto payments. Payable via bitFlyer wallet, with a ¥100 monthly discount for Bitcoin payments. A rare example of utility bill payment with Bitcoin.

• Vandle Card: VISA prepaid cards can be charged with Bitcoin. After charging, the card can be used at any store that accepts VISA—letting you spend Bitcoin indirectly, even where Bitcoin isn’t accepted.

Online payment services vary in whether transactions are processed instantly or require approval. Check usage methods and precautions for each service in advance. If you’re new to Bitcoin payments, start with small transactions.

Bitcoin-Compatible POS Registers and Payment Terminals

Bitcoin payments require dedicated payment services or POS register integration. In Japan, the following systems are mainstream. These let merchants accept Bitcoin smoothly and securely, without advanced technical knowledge.

bitFlyer Payment Service (bitFlyer Wallet Integration)

bitFlyer, a major Japanese crypto exchange, offers merchant payment services. Users pay via QR code using the bitFlyer wallet app. Merchants receive instant payment in yen, eliminating Bitcoin price risk.

Examples:

• Bic Camera (all stores): First electronics retailer in Japan to accept Bitcoin, still available at all locations.
• Yamada Denki (Tokyo stores): Adoption is expanding in major cities.
• H.I.S. travel agency (Greater Tokyo): Implemented for inbound tourist demand.

POS register maker Bicicom’s "BCPOS" can link with bitFlyer, letting stores add Bitcoin payment to existing registers without new systems.

SB Payment Service (SBPS)

SoftBank Group’s payment processor supports crypto payments—especially for digital content and online services. Many e-commerce sites use SBPS. Multi-token payments (using smart contracts) have been introduced, supporting simultaneous payment with Bitcoin, Ethereum, and more.

Merchants receive payment in yen, avoiding price risk, and users can pay easily. Integration with existing payment systems is straightforward, making implementation easy.

PayCAS (Payment Terminal)

SB C&S Corporation’s "PayCAS" terminal supports over 30 cashless methods—including credit cards, electronic money, and Bitcoin—in a single device. Merchants don’t need multiple terminals to accept various payments.

Portable "PayCAS Mobile" works at events or outdoor venues, powered by battery for use anywhere—ideal for mobile sales or pop-up stores.

Examples:

• Okinawa Arena and large event venues: Used for payments at concerts, sports events, and more.

PayCAS instantly converts payments to yen for merchants, so there’s no price risk. Payment data and sales reporting are also centralized for efficient operations.

Store Size Precautions

Large chains use dedicated payment services for instant Bitcoin transactions, but independent shops may require staff to manually confirm wallet payments. In these cases, blockchain confirmation can take several to ten minutes.

When using Bitcoin at a new store, confirm payment methods and expected time in advance. During busy periods, extra time may be needed.

How to Find Bitcoin-Accepting Stores and Stay Updated

To find Bitcoin-accepting retailers, use these methods. Combining approaches improves your chances of finding compatible merchants.

Check Official Store Info and Press Releases

If you know your destination, check the official website, social media, or in-store signage for "Bitcoin Accepted" notices. Major chains often announce support via press releases or website news—ideal for advance confirmation.

Look for "Bitcoin Accepted Here" stickers or posters at entrances or registers as clear indicators.

Use Map Apps and BTC Map

Specialized map services make it easy to find Bitcoin-accepting stores near you or while traveling.

• BTC Map: A global service showing Bitcoin-accepting merchants on a map. Smartphone apps (iOS/Android) are available, letting you search nearby stores via GPS and view details, reviews, and hours before you go.

• Coinmap: Similar to BTC Map, Coinmap displays Bitcoin-friendly stores worldwide. Users can add and update merchant info for current data.

These services are especially useful when traveling abroad. Check for compatible stores before your trip for smooth Bitcoin payments on site.

Contact Stores in Advance

Small and medium businesses may discontinue Bitcoin payments due to system or cost issues. To be sure, call or email ahead to confirm Bitcoin payment is still available.

When asking, clarify:

• Minimum and maximum accepted amounts
• Payment time (instant or approval required)
• Required wallet app types
• Lightning Network compatibility

Confirming these details beforehand helps avoid checkout issues.

Bitcoin Payment Market Outlook

As global regulations and infrastructure improve, Bitcoin payments are expected to expand further. Advances in technology will boost convenience, enabling more people to use Bitcoin day-to-day.

Crypto User Growth Forecast

Statista estimates global crypto users will surge. In Japan, users recently reached about 19.43 million (17.1% of the population), with further growth expected.

Worldwide, crypto holders total about 560 million (6.8% of the global population), and growth is ongoing. Interest in digital assets is rising fastest among younger users, and recognition as a payment method is increasing.

Regulatory Improvements and Market Trust

Recent regulatory developments in Europe, the US, and Asia are creating safer environments for institutions and individuals. Clear rules increase market transparency and reduce risks like fraud and money laundering.

More financial products such as ETFs are boosting reliability and daily user adoption. Bitcoin ETF approvals are expanding connections with traditional finance and introducing Bitcoin to a wider audience.

Infrastructure Development and Lightning Network Adoption

As user numbers grow, Bitcoin payment infrastructure is set to improve rapidly. Expanded Lightning Network capacity and accelerated crypto adoption by major payment processors and e-commerce platforms are expected.

Anticipated changes include:

• Lightning Network becomes a mainstream daily payment option: Practical for small, frequent purchases at coffee shops, convenience stores, and similar venues.

• Major e-commerce sites like Amazon and Rakuten adopt crypto payments: As big online retailers implement Bitcoin and other crypto options, online shopping usage will expand dramatically.

• Comprehensive crypto payment support by PayPal, Stripe, and others: Some regions already support crypto; full-scale rollout is expected globally, including Japan.

Market Maturity and Expanding Role of Stablecoins

Bitcoin’s volatility means stablecoins (cryptocurrencies pegged to fiat currencies like the US dollar) may be used alongside it for large or price-sensitive transactions.

Bitcoin may be favored for small, instant payments, while stablecoins are better suited for high-value or stable transactions. For example, Lightning Network can be used for daily purchases, while stablecoins may be preferred for buying real estate or vehicles.

This division of roles will boost crypto’s practical utility, making it more accessible for everyday use.

Summary: Watch for the Spread of Bitcoin-Friendly Stores

Bitcoin is becoming a familiar payment option in Japan, with electronics retailers, restaurants, online shops, and even utility payments now accepting it. Mercari’s recent adoption of Bitcoin payments has further increased accessibility for general consumers.

Challenges remain, such as price volatility and transaction speed, but new technologies like the Lightning Network are making small, everyday payments more convenient. As regulation and corporate adoption progress, Bitcoin-compatible stores and services will continue to increase.

Users should understand each payment method and use Bitcoin safely and efficiently by paying attention to the following:

• Understand price volatility risk: Bitcoin’s value changes constantly—consider transaction timing.
• Practice strict security: Protect your wallet’s private key and use two-factor authentication.
• Start with small transactions: If you’re new, begin with small payments to learn the process.
• Check for the latest info: Supported stores and payment methods change frequently—verify before use.

Bitcoin payments are expected to become increasingly mainstream, enabling use in more scenarios. By exploring new technologies and payment options, you can enjoy more flexible and convenient payment experiences.

FAQ

Which major stores and services in Japan accept Bitcoin payments?

Bitcoin payments are accepted at select Yamada Denki stores in Tokyo (Shinjuku, Yaesu) and all 334 Megane Super stores nationwide.

How do I pay with Bitcoin in online shops?

At Bitcoin-enabled online shops, choose Bitcoin at checkout and send the required amount to the provided wallet address. Once the transaction is confirmed, your item will be shipped.

Are there fees for Bitcoin payments? Is there a risk of price fluctuation?

Bitcoin payments do not incur direct fees, but there is a risk of price fluctuation. Exchange transactions may include fees.

What are the differences between Bitcoin and credit card payments?

Bitcoin payments are decentralized, subject to price volatility, offer low fees, and are ideal for international transfers. Credit card payments are centralized, offer price stability, and are better suited for everyday use.

Are Bitcoin payments secure? Are they protected against fraud or theft?

Bitcoin payments are cryptographically secure, but there is no government insurance. Security depends on the user, and there is some risk of fraud or theft. Strong password management and wallet protection are essential.

Is there a difference between in-store and online Bitcoin payment adoption?

Yes, there is. Online retailers are adopting Bitcoin payments more quickly, while POS system integration in physical stores is more limited. Online adoption is leading the way.