The points cashback rate for credit cards varies greatly depending on which one you use. I initially only used one card, but once I started splitting my online shopping and in-store purchases, the rate at which I accumulated points skyrocketed. Comparing 0.5% to 18% is like night and day.

If you're a PayPay user, the first card to consider is the PayPay Card. It has no annual fee and offers a 1% cashback rate, which can go up to 5% at Yahoo! Shopping. However, be aware that recharges to PayPay are not eligible for points. Combining it with au PAY top-ups might be possible for double benefits.

If you frequently shop at Amazon and 7-Eleven, the JCB Card W is a must-have. It also has no annual fee and offers a 1% cashback rate, which can go up to 2% at partner stores. Using the Starbucks mobile order increases the cashback to 10.5%, making it ideal for coffee lovers. It's limited to ages 18–39, but if you join at 39, you can keep the card free of annual fees after turning 40, which is a big plus.

For those living within the Rakuten ecosystem, the Rakuten Card is the only choice. It offers 3% cashback at Rakuten Ichiba, which can reach up to 18% with SPU (Super Point Up). Pairing it with Rakuten Pay allows for double benefits, always earning around 1.5%. However, paying utility bills with it drops the rate to 0.2%, so using a different card for that is recommended.

If online shopping is your main focus, the Orico Card THE POINT is also worth considering. Through Orico Mall, you can get up to 2% cashback. For the first six months after joining, the rate is fixed at 2%, so you’ll see the benefits quickly. The downside is that Orico Points have limited redemption options.

Docomo users should consider the d Card. It offers 3% cashback at Starbucks and Matsumoto Kiyoshi. Combining it with d Payment can enable triple benefits. The card’s 1.1% cashback on credit card installment payments is also unique.

SoftBank and Y!Mobile users should opt for the PayPay Card Gold. Since mobile bills are reimbursed at 10%, paying around 9,000 yen per month can offset the annual fee of 11,000 yen. The standard cashback rate is also high at 1.5%.

Ultimately, choosing a credit card with a high cashback rate depends on where you shop most often. Holding multiple cards and switching based on the scene is the fastest way to maximize points.