Why do shops in Japan have a small tray at the register?
Money is placed in the tray rather than handed over, and your change comes back the same way. It is not a rejection of contact — it simply lets both people count without touching. Cards are widely taken, but cash is still king at small shops and shrines.
Where this answer comes from
- Place money in the small tray At most registers, there's a small tray for cash. Place your money there rather than…
- Wait your turn at small shops In small specialty shops, staff serve one customer at a time. Wait until they're free…
- Convenience stores are full-service Konbini sell food, drinks, tickets, postage, ATM services, and even handle package…
Say it in Japanese
Show the card to the staff. The Japanese, how to read it, and the recorded voice.