Money in Japan

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.