#Japan #Tokyo #USDC #Haneda Airport #Netstars

Haneda Airport Embraces Innovative Payment Solutions

On January 26, 2026, Haneda Airport will officially begin accepting payments in USDC, a stablecoin pegged to the US dollar, at select stores within its Terminal 3. This initiative, spearheaded by Japan Airport Terminal Co., Ltd., in partnership with Netstars Inc., aims to enhance convenience for inbound travelers and address the growing demand for digital payment solutions.

The Rise of Stablecoins in Travel

In recent years, stablecoins have gained significant traction worldwide as a reliable digital payment option, particularly for international travelers. As digital currencies become increasingly mainstream, airports must adapt to meet the changing preferences of their customers. By introducing USDC payments, Haneda Airport is taking a proactive step toward modernizing its payment infrastructure and providing travelers with more payment flexibility.

Details of the Initiative

The pilot program for USDC payments will run from January 26 to February 28, 2026, during which customers will be able to use this innovative payment method at two specific locations within Terminal 3:

1. Edo Shokuhinkan (Jidai-kan)
2. Edo Event Hall

This focused implementation allows the airport management and Netstars to evaluate the effectiveness and efficiency of using stablecoins in a high-traffic environment. It also provides a unique opportunity for customers to experience the benefits of digital currency firsthand during their travels.

Future Prospects

The decision to integrate USDC payments reflects a broader trend of digital evolution in the travel space. The collaboration between Japan Airport Terminal Co. and Netstars is part of a concerted effort to promote seamless travel experiences and encourage the adoption of advanced payment technologies.

Travelers can expect to see more payment options that cater to their needs, ultimately leading to more enjoyable experiences and streamlined transactions at the airport. The implementation of stably pegged cryptocurrencies like USDC not only caters to tech-savvy travelers but also supports the growing demand for cashless transactions amid ongoing safety and sanitation concerns.

How It Works

For those unfamiliar with stablecoins, USDC is a type of digital currency that is backed 1:1 by US dollars, making it a stable alternative to other cryptocurrencies that may experience extreme volatility. Moreover, using USDC allows for instant transactions and reduced fees compared to traditional banking systems. Customers wishing to use USDC will need a digital wallet capable of handling stablecoin transactions and a reliable internet connection to facilitate payment at the stores.

What’s Next?

As the pilot program progresses, both Japan Airport Terminal and Netstars will closely monitor the performance of USDC transactions, analyzing customer feedback to identify potential improvements. If the trial proves successful, there may be plans to expand USDC acceptance to additional shops and services within the airport, contributing to a more comprehensive digital payment ecosystem in the aviation industry.

Contact Information

For inquiries related to stablecoin payments, interested parties can contact the Corporate Communication Department at Netstars Inc. at (03) 6260-3788 or via email at [email protected]. Additionally, for questions concerning the stores, reach out to the Retail Operations Department at Japan Airport Terminal Co. at (03) 5757-8517, available weekdays from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM.

With innovative solutions like this, Haneda Airport is positioning itself as a pioneer in the industry, setting the stage for a new era of convenience in air travel payments.