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Money Matters in Japan

One of the many questions that foreign visitors want to know an answer to in advance before traveling to Japan may be about money. What currency does Japan use? Can I pay directly in foreign currency? Where is the best place to exchange foreign currency? Can foreign credit cards be used? Where is the ATM? We will answer most of your questions in this comprehensive guide on Japanese currency.

The Japanese currency is the yen, which is issued by the Bank of Japan. The yen's international composition of reserve currencies is ranked second, only to the US dollar and the euro, ranking third. Yen banknotes are recognized as one of the most difficult currencies to forge due to their excellent paper, printing, and watermarking. When traveling in Japan, the most popular payment method is cash. You can decide to exchange your currency beforehand at your bank or at the airport, or withdraw money at an ATM. In addition, credit cards are also very convenient in Japan, but may not be accepted in small cities and towns. But, most credit cards in the world can are accepted and can be used in Japan.

You can also use credit and debit cards to withdraw cash from the ATMs and use them at post offices and Japan Post Banks throughout Japan. With more than 28,000 ATMs at post offices across Japan and Japan Post Bank, there are also more than 23,000 ATMs in 7-Eleven convenience stores across Japan. You can use your credit card or debit card to withdraw yen at the ATMs. With the development of electronic payment, Mobile Payment is becoming more and more convenient. Most come in the form of mobile phone apps that allow for payments at selected stores by tapping an NFC reader or scanning a QR code, such as with Edy, Rakuten Pay, PayPay, Line Pay, and Origami Pay. As a foreign visitor, if you want to know more about how many money matters in Japan, please click here to enter our introduction page to learn more.

Credit Card & ATM

Almost every traveler asks this question before visiting Japan: Can I use my international credit or debit card in Japan? If you run out of cash while traveling in Japan, how do you use your internati

How to Pay in Japan

Many foreign visitors wonder about how to pay when traveling to Japan. What is the most convenient payment method in Japan? Can I use my credit card? In this article, we have summarized some relevant

Japanese Currency

The Japanese currency is the Yen, and is issued by the Bank of Japan. Japanese currency is the third most popular traded currencies in the world, following after US dollars and Euro. Because of the el

Exchanging Money in Japan

As exchanging money an inevitable step when traveling abroad, many people wonder how to do it. Though money exchange can easily be found at airport, the rate is usually low and comes in with commissio

Most Frequently Asked Questions

What do I need to know before using a foreign credit card in Japan?

Before using an international credit card in Japan, it is best to consult your credit card company in advance. Learn more about the range of credit cards you hold in Japan. Generally, internationally renowned credit cards can be used in Japan. It is important to know the fees, the amount of each transaction you can use in Japan, and its limit.
Is it easy to withdraw Japanese notes at ATM?

Yes, there are plenty of ATMs found in Post banks and 7-11 stores. However, you may want to check the rate first because ATMs usually offer lower rates.
Where can I find ATMs in Japan?

The most convenient, is to find and use 7 Bank ATMs, which are available in almost every 7-Eleven retail store. In addition, Japan's Post Bank has online stores throughout Japan, including ATMs found at major airports, train stations, and department stores.
What is the best way to pay for things in Japan?

The best way to pay is cash. Sellers in most stores, especially small shops and food stands, prefer cash.
What is the best place to exchange money?

If you don't mind carrying cash, you can exchange the money at your home country. Once arrive in Japan, banks usually have the best rate. However, you might have to wait a long time at the bank. Lastly, using credit card to withdraw cash from ATM is also a good option.
What is the easiest international credit card to use in Japan?

Visa and MasterCard, AMEX, JCB, Diners, etc are the most convenient credit cards to use in Japan. When using a credit card, please pay attention to the reminder map of the type of credit card accepted by the merchant, or ask the staff in advance.
Where can I purchase a complete collection of Japanese coin?

A complete collection of Japanese coin is available at postal banks and online. Many travelers would purchase or collect a set as memento when traveling to Japan.
Is it better to exchange money in Japan?

You don't have to wait until arriving in Japan to exchange currency, and in fact you can do it at your home country in advance. Japanese yen is one of the most traded currencies around the world, thus it is very easy to exchange to Japanese yen.