I would try to rely on credit cards as little as possible; Japan is still mostly a cash-based economy. As for minimum purchases, that probably does depend on the vendor (granted that is if they accept credit cards)
All depends on the store. My Japanese mate tries to use his United Airlines Saison card to buy everything. He even buys his bento everyday from Lawson because they'll let him use that card - miles and miles!
Recently a lot more things became 'OK' to pay for by credit card - water bill, electricity bill, NTT bill. I still avoid buying gasoline with a credit card, simply because the price is always higher when purchasing with a card. And you can't use credit cards for medical treatment - well not round here you can't.
I probably use a credit card once every two months, and carry around large amounts of cash almost all the time. Why would you want to make a 1000 yen credit card purchase?
Most convenience stores accept credit cards now, you can buy 10yen snack, such as Umaibo, with your credit card there.
But Japan is still a country, "cash talks", so just ask shop clerks if they accept credit cards in advance.
Most convenience stores accept credit cards now, you can buy 10yen snack, such as Umaibo, with your credit card there.
But Japan is still a country, "cash talks", so just ask shop clerks if they accept credit cards in advance.
Most people - in the states or abroad - that have minimum purchase prices, are usually mom and pop places that cant afford someone to nickle and dime purchases. However - convenience stores, bookstores, etc. etc. - I've never run into a place with a minimum purchase price.
And why carry a card? - So that youre not carrying cash? If cash is needed - just get it out of an ATM machine.