The Nanaco Card is a prepaid electronic money system developed by Seven & i Holdings. You can use the Nanaco card, earn points, and pay for goods and services at over 500,000 locations in Japan.
Many people use it at 7-Eleven stores because it's simple, fast, and rewarding. You can also earn points and redeem them like cash.
What Is the Nanaco Card?
The Nanaco Card is not a credit card. It works by loading money in advance and using it for payments. You can use it by tapping it on a reader at checkout.
It’s available as a card, keychain, or mobile version for Android and iOS. Nanaco is accepted at places like 7-Eleven, Ito-Yokado, and York Mart.
You can also use it in online shopping with participating partners. The card lets you track balances and points in real time through the app. There is no interest or annual fee when using it.
How to Get a Nanaco Card?
You can get this card in a few simple steps. It is accessible to both residents and temporary visitors in Japan.
Where to Apply?
You can apply at physical stores like 7-Eleven, Ito-Yokado, and ENEOS gas stations. These locations have counters or kiosks where you can register.
No documents are needed for the standard prepaid card. The process takes just a few minutes.
Types of Nanaco Cards
Nanaco offers multiple card types to match different user needs. Each one is tailored for a specific lifestyle or reward benefit.
- Standard Nanaco Card: A general prepaid card suitable for most users who want to earn points and shop easily.
- Senior Nanaco: Available to users aged 60 and above, offering a 5% discount on designated days at Ito-Yokado.
- ENEOS Nanaco: Shaped like a keychain, this version is ideal for drivers who frequent ENEOS gas stations.
- ANA QUICPay + Nanaco: Combines airline mileage earning with Nanaco shopping points for users who fly frequently.
Who Can Apply?
Anyone staying in Japan—regardless of citizenship—can get the card. No credit check is needed for prepaid versions.
You can also choose a mobile version if you prefer using your phone. Co-branded cards may require extra verification depending on the issuing company.
Charging and Using the Card
To use Nanaco, you must first charge or deposit money into it. You can load money using cash, ATMs, or approved credit cards.
Once loaded, you can tap and pay instantly at participating stores. The system is contactless and works without PINs or signatures.
You can manage transactions through the mobile app. The maximum balance limit is 50,000 yen.
How to Earn Nanaco Points?
You can earn Nanaco Points through various everyday transactions. These points help you save on future purchases and are easy to accumulate.
Shopping with Nanaco
Each time you pay using your card, you earn points. Most purchases at 7-Eleven and partner stores are eligible.
Some promotions offer extra points for specific items. You can track points earned instantly via the app.
Charging with Credit Cards
You can earn points by charging your card using certain credit cards. This method provides added value for regular top-ups.
Some campaigns offer even more rewards when using approved credit issuers. Always check if your card qualifies before charging.
Earning Through Services
Using Nanaco for services like utility bills or subscriptions can also earn points. Services like electricity, newspaper delivery, or insurance may qualify.
Recycling plastic bottles or signing up for offers also adds points. These methods allow you to accumulate points without shopping.
Where to Use the Nanaco Card?
Nanaco can be used in many places across Japan. It’s best known for its strong connection to 7-Eleven stores.
You can also use it at Ito-Yokado, York Mart, Denny's, and ENEOS. Online shopping partners in the Seven & i Group also accept Nanaco.
The card is also usable for insurance payments and other bills. New partner stores continue to be added regularly.
How to Shop at 7-Eleven Using Nanaco?
Shopping at 7-Eleven with a Nanaco Card is simple and fast. Follow these steps to complete a successful purchase:
- Step 1: Choose your items and proceed to the cashier or self-checkout kiosk.
- Step 2: Let the cashier know you are paying with Nanaco, or select it as your payment method.
- Step 3: Tap your card or mobile device on the reader when prompted.
- Step 4: Wait for the confirmation beep and receipt; your payment is complete.
- Step 5: Earn Nanaco Points instantly for your transaction.
Understanding the Nanaco Points System
The Nanaco Points system is easy to follow and gives users more value from spending. You earn points in small amounts, but they add up quickly.
Value of Each Point
Every Nanaco Point is equal to one Japanese yen. You can redeem them directly when making purchases.
There's no minimum threshold required to use your points. This makes the reward system flexible and user-friendly.
How to Redeem Points?
You can spend points during checkout by selecting "use points" on the payment screen. Both physical cards and mobile apps support this feature.
You can apply them to partial or full transactions. Receipts will show how many points were used and how many remain.
Where to Check Your Balance?
Point balances are updated in real time and shown on receipts. You can also check your point total using the mobile app.
In-store kiosks at 7-Eleven and Ito-Yokado also provide balanced info. This helps you keep track of your rewards easily.
Bonus Ways to Earn Points
There are more ways to increase your point total beyond regular shopping. Here’s how you can earn more:
- Use Seven Card Plus: This is a credit card that links with Nanaco. It offers extra points when you charge or pay with it.
- Pay Insurance with Nanaco: Some insurance companies accept Nanaco for payments, giving you bonus points.
- Shop Online: When you buy from affiliated Seven & i stores online, you earn more points.
- Utility and Subscription Discounts: Use Nanaco for electricity, newspapers, and moving services to gain more points.
- Plastic Bottle Recycling: Some locations give you points for recycling PET bottles.
Mobile Compatibility and Versions
Nanaco is not limited to physical cards. You can use Nanaco on your smartphone via Apple Wallet or Android apps.
The app allows balance checking, charging, and real-time point tracking. Mobile Nanaco also supports tap-to-pay in stores.
Most features mirror those of the physical card. Using mobile options makes it easier for people who prefer digital tools.
Nanaco Card Types and Special Offers
There are several types of Nanaco cards for specific needs. The Senior Nanaco is for people 60 years and older, offering a 5% discount on selected days at Ito-Yokado.
The ENEOS Nanaco is keychain-sized and suited for drivers. It’s linked to ENEOS gas stations and earns points on fuel.
The ANA QUICPay + Nanaco combines flight mileage and shopping rewards in one. You can choose a type based on your lifestyle.
Interest Rates and Fees
The Nanaco Card is a prepaid product and does not charge interest. There is no annual fee for the basic version of the card.
Charges only apply for replacement or special designs. The ANA or Seven Card Plus may be of interest if used as a credit card. You should check with the specific credit issuer. Regular users do not need to worry about extra charges.
Contact and Customer Support
If you have questions or need help, Nanaco offers direct support. You can call their service center in Japan.
Phone: 0570-071-555
Hours: 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM (Japan Time). You can also visit their official website for full support. The site is in Japanese, but browser translation tools work well.
Final Thoughts: Should You Get a Nanaco Card?
If you shop at 7-Eleven, the Nanaco Card is worth it. It helps you avoid coins, earn daily points, and check balances in real time.
There’s no interest, and the setup is fast and simple. The card is great for locals and travelers alike.
Disclaimer: Information may change based on updates from Nanaco or its partners. Check official sources for the most accurate and current terms.
