Japan is a cash society, and while some large department stores, restaurants, and hotels in large urban areas allow credit cards to be used, most expenses must be paid in cash. Therefore, it is important to bring some money with you when you first enter the country (you can exchange it at airport money-changing counters, depending on what time you arrive) and have a plan for getting money while you are traveling. Banks often have booths in airports where you can exchange your local currency to yen. The best way to get cash is at a 7-Eleven ATM (convenience store). Also note that that traveler’s checks are not widely accepted in Japan, and thus not recommended.
The best ATMs !
Actually, they’re called 7 Bank ATMs. 7-Eleven convenience stores, are almost everywhere plus they also have 7 Bank ATMs in places like international airports, including the arrivals halls of Narita and Kansai (Osaka) airports. These ATMs work with almost all foreign cards and have clear English instructions. They also allow you to choose to withdraw from current (checking) or savings accounts, something other ATMs do not allow you to do.
The best thing about 7-11 ATMs is that they are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Post offices ATM’s are a very good way to withdraw money while in Japan because they accept foreign VISA, Plus, MasterCard, Euro Card, Maestro, Cirrus, American Express, Diners Card, and JCB cards. There are a few other types of ATM’s that can be used to withdraw money from foreign bank accounts. Also, Post office ATM’s provide an English user interface. Please note that these ATM’s are not accessible 24 hours a day – smaller post offices are usually open from 9:00 am till 16:00 (4:00 pm) on weekdays, and larger post offices are often open until 21:00 (9:00 pm) on weekdays and have limited or no weekend hours.
Before departing your country please make sure that your card can be used in Japan and you know its secret 4-digit or 6-digit PIN number. Also, it is a good idea to check what fees and daily or monthly limits are associated with international withdrawals. These details can be ascertained by contacting your bank. Your bank or credit card company may also be able to tell you the locations of international ATMs you can use while in Japan.
Compared to some countries like the United States, people living in or visiting Japan tend to carry larger amounts of cash, since they often have to pay for transportation, food and beverages, shopping, and even lodging in cash. Bills come in denominations of 10,000, 5,000, 2,000 and 1,000 yen, and coins come in denominations of 500, 100, 50, 10, 5 and 1 yen.
Even though Japan is considered a very safe place for travelers, it is still a good idea to use a money belt or similar travel pouch since, as a tourist, you are more likely to be targeted by criminals. Losing your money, credit cards, or passport while overseas can create a very stressful situation.
Please note that it is not customary to tip in Japan and that extra fees are often figured into restaurant bills as a substitute.
Money in Japan from the JNTO
Exchange Rates Table for converting your currency into Japanese Yen
Japanese Post Office information about Postal ATM’s
The tours featured throughout our website are intended to give you ideas for what's possible when you travel with us. Treat them simply as inspiration, because your trip will be created individually by one of our specialists to match your tastes and budget.
It was our first trip to Japan. Working with Jeff was a pleasure. His knowledge of the country and local contacts were very helpful. Choice...
Working with Jeff at Rediscover Tours was a wonderful experience. He helped me plan a 10 day trip of a lifetime to Japan with my mother...
I would like to take this opportunity to commend and thank you for the marvelous vacation we recently enjoyed in Japan. The entire experience exceeded...
Years after years we have selected the best specialists about Japan. They have at least lived a minimum of 10 years in the country. They are here to answer all your questions and to make your tour just the way you want it.
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Jeff was born in a south suburb of Chicago named South Holland and lived in Japan for 14 years. He now lives in Commerce Township, Michigan with his wife Yoshimi, son Shota, and daughter Mina. He enjoys playing with his kids, volunteering with his daughter’s marching band, cycling and training & teaching Aikido.
Michiyo was born in Noboribetsu, Hokkaido Prefecture though currently lives in Takarazuka, Hyogo Prefecture. Her main passions in life is traveling all around the world and enjoying their cultures.
Noriko was born in Nagoya. During her childhood she moved around Japan following her father’s office transfer. She especially liked her time in Shizuoka, facing Mt Fuji. She now lives in Minoo (in the suburb of Osaka). Noriko graduated from Hiroshima university. She’s been to Malaysia, Thailand and Europe (Germany and Bulgaria). Her hobbies are hiking, reading and surfing.
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We handle your specific requests. We will inform accommodations, guides and partners of any meal requirements, allergies or disabilities you may have.
Your Japan expert has lived in Japan for many years or is Japanese.
We know the hidden treasures of Japan.
Because most of our staff live in Japan we are always aware of what’s happening in Japan. Throughout our network of partners we get first-hand information that will benefit your trip.
They add a whole new depth to your Japanese tour.
Our local guides are extremely professional and knowledgeable.
Your guide will listen to you, give you suggestions and show you sights you want. They are also very flexible and can make on the fly changes to fit your style, mood, weather and crowds.
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Rediscover Tours has been organizing travel to Japan since 2000.
You will arrive in Japan feeling safe and comfortable knowing that all the details have been taken care of and that our Japan office is just a phone call away. Indulge yoursefl!