WAON

WAON is a Japanese stored-value electronic money system issued by Aeon Co., Ltd. It uses contactless smart card technology based on Sony’s FeliCa and enables cashless payments at participating retailers.

WAON operates as a closed-loop system. Funds are prepaid and debited at the time of purchase when the card is tapped at a reader. It is widely accepted at Aeon Group stores—including supermarkets, department stores, and shopping centers—as well as many partner retailers and vending machines.

WAON cards are available as plastic cards and in digital forms such as Mobile WAON. The WAON loyalty program, known as WAON POINT, awards points for eligible purchases, which can be redeemed for discounts or goods and may be used to pay for purchases at participating locations.

Loading WAON money can be done at Aeon stores and partner locations, as well as through mobile apps or online services where available.

History and scope: WAON was introduced by AEON in 2004 and has since expanded to include mobile and online services, broadening its applicability beyond physical cards.

Security and management: If a WAON card is lost or stolen, the balance can often be preserved and recoverable by customer service, with procedures to suspend and transfer value to a replacement card after verification.

WAON is primarily used in Japan and is associated with the Aeon retail network and affiliated merchants. It sits among Japan’s popular electronic money systems alongside other regional services and loyalty programs.