Top 10 Point Cards for Bargains in Japan
Japan has an extensive network of point card programs that reward shoppers, diners, and travelers with discounts, cashback, and exclusive perks. Whether you're a resident or a visitor, taking advantage of these programs can help you save money while earning benefits on everyday purchases. From convenience stores and electronics retailers to airlines and department stores, Japan’s point systems make spending more rewarding.
With so many options available, it’s important to know which programs offer the best value. Here’s a look at the top 10 point card programs that provide great savings across different categories.
Top 10 Point Card Ranking
- Rakuten Points
- d Point
- T-Point
- Ponta Points
- WAON
- Yodobashi Camera Gold Point
- Yamada Denki Points
- JRE Point
- ANA Mileage Club
- JAL Mileage Bank
1. Rakuten Points
Image Source: Rakuten Point
Best for: Online shopping, travel, and everyday purchases
Where to use: Rakuten Ichiba, Rakuten Travel, McDonald's, FamilyMart, and partner stores
Rakuten’s loyalty program is one of the most versatile in Japan. You earn points on purchases across Rakuten’s vast ecosystem, including online shopping, travel bookings, and even dining. Points can be redeemed at thousands of partner stores, making this one of the most valuable programs for frequent shoppers.
2. d Point
Image Source: d Point Club
Best for: Convenience stores, fast food, and travel
Where to use: McDonald's, FamilyMart, Docomo stores, and partner retailers
Operated by NTT Docomo, d Points are widely accepted across Japan, including restaurants, electronics stores, and even travel services. Points can be used for shopping, phone bill discounts, or exchanged for other rewards. Docomo users get extra perks, but anyone can register.
3. V-Point
Image Source: V-Point
Best for: Convenience stores, gas stations, and bookstores
Where to use: Tsutaya, ENEOS gas stations, FamilyMart, and more
One of Japan’s longest-running point programs, V-Point allows you to accumulate rewards at convenience stores, bookshops, gas stations, and restaurants. You can redeem points for discounts at partner retailers or use them for online shopping.
4. Ponta Points
Image Source: Ponta Points
Best for: Convenience stores, hotels, and shopping
Where to use: Lawson, Japan Airlines, KFC, and partner locations
Ponta Points are widely accepted at convenience stores, restaurants, and even Japan Airlines. You can also redeem points for flights, making it a great choice for both daily shopping and travel savings.
5. WAON
Image Source: WAON
Best for: Grocery shopping and retail stores
Where to use: AEON supermarkets, AEON Mall, and affiliated retailers
AEON’s WAON card is an electronic money and point system rolled into one. It allows you to earn points while shopping at AEON supermarkets, drugstores, and department stores, then redeem them for discounts on future purchases.
6. Yodobashi Camera Gold Point
Image Source: Yodobashi Camera Gold Point
Best for: Electronics and appliances
Where to use: Yodobashi Camera stores and online
Yodobashi Camera’s point program is one of the most generous for electronics shoppers. You can earn up to 10% of your purchase back in points, which can be used for discounts on future buys.
7. Yamada Denki Points
Image Source: Yamada Denki Points
Best for: Home appliances and electronics
Where to use: Yamada Denki stores and online
Similar to Yodobashi, Yamada Denki offers a loyalty program for electronics shoppers. Points can be earned on everything from home appliances to gaming consoles, making it a great way to save on tech purchases.
8. JRE Point
Image Source: JRE Point
Best for: Train travel and station shopping
Where to use: JR East trains, NewDays convenience stores, and partner retailers in train stations
JRE Point rewards frequent JR East passengers with points for train rides, in-station shopping, and restaurant spending. Points can be used for discounts on future train tickets or purchases at affiliated stores.
9. ANA Mileage Club
Image Source: ANA Mileage Club
Best for: Flights, hotels, and travel-related purchases
Where to use: ANA flights, hotels, partner retailers, and restaurants
ANA’s mileage program allows travelers to earn miles on flights, hotels, car rentals, and shopping. These miles can be redeemed for free flights, upgrades, and hotel stays, making it a must-have for frequent flyers.
10. JAL Mileage Bank
Image Source: JAL Mileage Bank
Best for: Air travel and partner shopping
Where to use: JAL flights, partner hotels, and shopping programs
Japan Airlines’ mileage program is a favorite among travelers. JAL miles can be used for free flights, seat upgrades, and partner hotel bookings, making it a valuable card for those who fly frequently.
Conclusion
Japan’s point card programs offer excellent ways to save money and maximize rewards on everyday spending. Whether you're shopping for groceries, booking flights, or purchasing electronics, these top 10 point programs help you earn valuable points that can be redeemed for discounts or perks.
With so many options available, it's worth signing up for multiple programs to take full advantage of the benefits. Whether you're a resident or a visitor, using these point cards can make your purchases more rewarding and cost-effective.
