How to Get Japanese Yen in Japan: Exchanges, ATMs & Hidden Tips

Once you land in Japan, how do you get local currency? Should you exchange dollars at a booth or use an ATM? Where is the best rate? In this guide, we’ll break down how, where, and when to exchange money in Japan — and how to use ATMs without paying too much in fees.

1. Currency Exchange Counters (Pros & Cons)

Where to find them: airports, major train stations, large banks, currency exchange shops in cities.

Pros:

• You can get yen ahead of time (just in case)

• You see what you’re getting immediately

  
  

• Cons / pitfalls:

• Less favorable rates / higher spreads

• Commission or hidden fees

• Limited hours

• You may get leftover yen (coins) you can’t re‑exchange

  
  

2. Withdrawing Yen via ATMs in Japan (Best Option for Many Travelers)

This is often the most convenient and cost‑effective option.

Where to Find Good ATMs

• 7‑Eleven / Seven Bank ATMs — super widespread, multilingual, many accept foreign cards

• Japan Post / Yucho network — many ATMs, often in post offices; linked to international networks

• E‑Net ATMs (in FamilyMart, Lawson) — backup option

• Bank branch ATMs (MUFG, Mizuho, SMBC, etc.) — more limited hours, sometimes stricter acceptance for foreign cards

• Airport ATMs — handy on arrival

  
  

ATM Fees & Rates — What to Expect

• Japanese ATM internal fee: often around ¥110–¥220 per withdrawal, depending on ATM and time (weekend, late night, holidays)

• Your home bank’s international / foreign transaction fee (percentage + flat fee)

• Exchange rate markup built into the card processing

• Sometimes banks waive ATM fees during regular business hours (for local accounts)

  
  

Tip: Withdraw larger amounts less often to avoid repeated fixed fees.

Tip: Decline DCC (dynamic currency conversion) at ATMs or point-of-sale — always choose to pay in yen.

Tip: On weekends or holidays or late nights, expect higher ATM surcharges.

Note: These fees are in addition to what your home bank may charge.

How to Use ATMs in Japan (Step-by-Step + Tips)

1. Insert card

2. Select language (“English / 英語”)

3. Choose “Withdrawal / お引き出し”

4. Choose account type (Checking / Savings)

5. Enter amount (in yen)

6. Confirm

7. Collect cash, card, receipt

8. Some ATMs may reject magnetic‑stripe cards — chip + PIN is safer

9. English and other languages are available on convenience store ATMs

10. In very rural areas, only local post office ATMs might exist

    
    

3. Best Practices & Travel Tips

• Plan your cash needs ahead for weekends or holidays when ATMs may impose higher fees

• Withdraw in bulk to reduce per‑withdrawal fixed costs

• Check your bank’s policy — some cards reimburse ATM fees or waive foreign transaction costs

• Avoid DCC (let conversion happen in JPY)

• Always carry a backup card or emergency cash

• Monitor withdrawal limits — both ATM and your home bank’s daily international limit

• Use ATMs in well-lit, safe locations (inside convenience stores, stations)

  
  
  
  

Conclusion & Call to Action

Getting yen in Japan doesn’t have to be a headache. Exchange counters have their place, but most travelers will come out ahead by using ATMs in convenience stores, post offices, and major banks — especially if you know when and where to withdraw.

💡 Tip: Use a travel-friendly debit/credit card that either refunds ATM fees or doesn’t charge foreign-transaction fees — that’s where you save the most. Planning your route? Check out our Japan itinerary guide to make the most of your yen. Safe travels — and don’t let money be your stress!