How to Get Japanese Yen Before and During Your Trip
Here are some tips for exchanging your currency for Japanese yen.
Currency Exchanges
Currency exchange kiosks at airports, in your home country, and in major cities in Japan usually offer less favorable exchange rates or charge high commissions. Avoid these if possible since there are other options available if you plan in advance. Plus, if something goes wrong with the transaction, you might not have time to formulate a plan B.
It’s possible to run into major hassles with fraud prevention if you try to change large sums—even sums less than $500—at currency exchange kiosks. If you want to avoid long phone calls with ignorant customer service reps, try to talk to your bank about the transaction in advance, but even that isn’t a guaranteed method.
You're even more likely to run into trouble if you attempt to charge large amounts to a debit card at a currency exchange in Japan. This can easily be avoided by bringing cash to exchange, but then you run the risk of misplacing that cash—or being detained by customs on suspicion of illegal activities. (Japan isn't likely to detain you, but take extra care if your home country is known to be paranoid!)
Keep in mind that usual cash exchange methods inside Japan may take longer than usual during big events like the Olympics, especially around Tokyo. Leave extra time, be patient with the currency exchange staff, and have an extra debit card ready in case you need to go to an ATM instead.
Use a Bank in Your Native Country
Luckily, the currency exchange companies and their high fees aren't your only option. Your best bet is to plan ahead and try to change as much money as possible at a reputable bank in your home country. Since many banks only offer their best exchange rates to customers, it may be worth it to open a checking account at a larger bank, but watch out for the minimum account levels some banks require in order for fees to be waived. This may not be worth the hassle for one-time, low-budget trips, but it’s probably worth it for longer stays or if you’re taking the whole family.
Many travelers recommend larger banks like Chase Bank and Bank of America. Branches of these banks in major metro areas in your home country may be able to sell you currency on the spot, but always call in advance. You may need to wait two business days for the currency to be delivered to the branch, but it may be worth it: major banks typically offer rates that are 5% better than Travelex or other currency services, and rarely charge fees.
Watch out, though: some banks will contract out currency exchange services to Travelex or another company, adding another layer of bureaucracy, hassle and fees to your transaction. Some will even require you to go to a far-off Travelex office to pick up the currency!
Use ATM Cards, Not Travelers' Checks
It is possible to withdraw Japanese yen from ATMs in Japan using major American debit cards, especially Visa. Many banks will charge a foreign transaction fee, which seems to typically be $3–$5, in my experience. This fee is reasonable compared to many currency exchanges, though.
Look for 7-11s, Family Marts, and other convenience stores for ATMs in Japan. If you've notified your bank of your travel plans in advance, you shouldn't run into issues with being declined at these ATMs. The only problem is that the daily withdrawal limits for foreign cards at ATMs can be as low as ¥30,000 (about $300), which can be tricky to manage—and you can’t just go to another ATM and do a second transaction.
It may be tempting to take a traveler’s check or another safe money method, but be careful and do your research in advance, since many banks in Japan won’t take traveler’s checks. You may be redirected to cash the check at a branch of the bank that issued it, which can be very inconvenient or even impossible outside of Tokyo.
Carry Plenty of Cash
If you’re worried about traveling to Japan with large amounts of cash on hand, don’t be—the country is extremely safe. Take standard precautions against pickpockets and don’t wave cash around. Being stuck in a situation with no cash and a malfunctioning ATM card can get you in real trouble, so stash extra cash someplace safe!
When out and about far from your hotel, carrying ¥20,000 per adult in your party at all times is your safest bet. This could potentially save you from major trouble if you suddenly need a taxi or a new hotel.
Related Reading
- The Japanese Yen: Designs and Denominations
Japan is a cash-based society, and thus, anyone looking to travel or live in the country should familiarize themselves with the Japanese currency—the Yen. - How Much Money Should You Bring on Your Next Vacation?
Think about how much money you'll need to take, especially in cash, before you leave on vacation. Here are tips for estimating your expenses for your next trip. - How to Send and Receive Money While Traveling
While traveling, it can be challenging to send and receive money. This article shares some tips to help you handle banking activities while you are away from home.
© 2018 Ria Fritz
