Cashless days

Each month, dates with a zero on the end are unofficial "cashless day". So that is, the 10th, 20th and 30th of each month. There was a time when it was an official, registered anniversary, but even though it is no longer listed in the official registry, the concept continues to reflect Japan’s broader push toward modern, efficient payment systems.

Initially, the "cashless day" was established by the Japan Cashless Association to promote electronic payments or payment methods that don’t rely on physical money. The choice of “0‑days” comes from the idea of “cashless = zero cash.” The day promotes wider adoption of smartphone payments, credit cards, and other digital methods by highlighting their convenience, speed, and safety. At the time of the creation of "cashless day", Japan’s cashless usage rate lagged behind many other developed countries. 

The goal at the time "cashless day" was registered was to raise the percentage of cashless to around 40% by 2025. I don't know if they succeeded in that goal. The Japan Cashless Association website is no longer live. But I have personally noticed Japan is more cashless friendly in the last five years. The feature photo shows a QR code system used at a shrine so that people can make a contribution with electronic payments. You can see such initiatives at many different types of locations in Japan in recent years.