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Tokyo, February 24, 2026.
In a significant step toward integrating blockchain technology into everyday transactions, Digital Garage has officially launched a pilot program for stablecoin payments in physical stores.
Partnering with credit card giant JCB and major banking group Resona Holdings, the initiative allows consumers to use USDC and JPYC stablecoins for in-person purchases via self-custody wallets.
The trial, which begins today and runs through March 2, 2026, aims to test the viability of digital currencies in retail settings, potentially paving the way for broader adoption in Japan.
This collaboration builds on a memorandum of understanding announced in January, highlighting Japan's push for innovative payment solutions amid growing interest in stablecoins.
Key Takeaways
- Pilot Duration and Scope: Runs from February 24 to March 2, 2026, focusing on in-store QR code payments using USDC and JPYC in Tokyo.
- Technology Involved: Utilizes Base App for USDC (Base Chain) and MynaWallet for JPYC (Polygon), with merchants settling in yen.
- Partners' Roles: Digital Garage leads infrastructure, JCB handles merchant integration, and Resona ensures compliance and banking support.
- Potential Benefits: Lower transaction fees, enhanced security via blockchain, and improved user experience for digital-native consumers.
- Future Implications: Could accelerate stablecoin adoption in Japan, influencing global retail payment trends.
The pilot focuses on user-friendly QR code payments, where customers scan codes using the Base App for USDC or MynaWallet for JPYC.
Merchants, in turn, receive settlements in Japanese yen, ensuring seamless integration with traditional financial systems.
Conducted primarily in Tokyo, including at locations like Pangaea Cafe in Shibuya Parco, the program evaluates user experience, blockchain performance, and operational challenges.
Background and Details
Stablecoins like USDC (pegged to the U.S. dollar on the Base Chain) and JPYC (pegged to the Japanese yen on Polygon) offer stability compared to volatile cryptocurrencies, making them suitable for retail use.
This pilot addresses key barriers to adoption, such as high credit card fees, by leveraging blockchain for potentially lower costs and faster settlements.
Resona Holdings, Japan's fourth-largest banking group, brings regulatory expertise, while JCB provides its extensive merchant network, and Digital Garage handles the payment infrastructure.
The trial is limited to weekdays from 2:00 PM, emphasizing controlled testing to gather real-world data. Participants can make payments at select JCB-affiliated stores, with the goal of verifying self-custody wallet functionality and yen conversion processes.
This initiative aligns with Japan's regulatory framework for digital assets, positioning stablecoins as a bridge between crypto and fiat economies.
Industry experts note that successful pilots could lead to commercialization as early as April 2027, expanding stablecoin use beyond online transactions.
The partnership underscores a trifecta of finance, technology, and regulation, aiming to make stablecoin payments as commonplace as credit cards.
Conclusion
This stablecoin payment pilot by Digital Garage, JCB, and Resona Holdings represents a forward-thinking experiment in blending cryptocurrency with traditional retail.
By addressing practical challenges like user interfaces and settlements, the program could catalyze a shift toward more efficient, cost-effective payment systems.
As Japan continues to innovate in fintech, outcomes from this trial may influence international standards for digital currencies, fostering a more inclusive financial ecosystem.
Read Next:
- AI Agents For Stablecoins In 2026
- Mastercard Stablecoin Pay In 2026
- The Machines Are Spending Stablecoins
FAQs:
1. What is the Digital Garage stablecoin payment pilot?
It's a trial program allowing in-store payments with USDC and JPYC stablecoins using wallets like Base App and MynaWallet, in partnership with JCB and Resona Holdings.
2. When does the stablecoin pilot run?
From February 24, 2026, to March 2, 2026, on weekdays starting at 2:00 PM, primarily in Tokyo stores.
3. How do USDC and JPYC payments work in this pilot?
Users scan QR codes with self-custody wallets; payments are made in stablecoins, but merchants receive Japanese yen settlements.
4. Why are stablecoins being tested for in-store payments?
To evaluate blockchain efficiency, reduce fees compared to credit cards, and promote secure, stable digital transactions in retail.
5. What could happen after the pilot ends?
Successful results may lead to full commercialization by April 2027, expanding stablecoin use across more merchants in Japan.
Disclaimer:
This content is provided for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, legal, or tax advice; no material herein should be interpreted as a recommendation, endorsement, or solicitation to buy or sell any financial instrument, and readers should conduct their own independent research or consult a qualified professional.
