Besides exchanging yen in advance, many travelers can withdraw cash in Japan using their bank or credit cards. Just make sure to complete a few simple steps with your bank before departure—follow this pre-trip checklist to ensure smooth access to cash during your stay!

In addition to exchanging foreign currency, many bank-issued debit cards can be used at ATMs in Japan to withdraw yen. If you plan to use your debit card abroad, make sure to take care of the following steps before your trip:

1. Check if your card has international network logos like VISA (PLUS) or CIRRUS—some banks also support chip cards in certain countries.

2. Apply for international ATM withdrawal services through your local bank or post office.

3. Set a separate PIN specifically for overseas ATM use (different from your regular PIN).

4. Make sure your account balance is sufficient.

5. Review your bank’s rules on withdrawal limits, frequency, and fees.

Once these steps are complete, you’ll be able to withdraw yen smoothly from participating ATMs in Japan.

If you don’t have a debit card that supports international withdrawals—or if your account balance is running low—you can also use your credit card to withdraw cash at ATMs abroad. Many credit cards double as cash advance cards, but before your trip, be sure to:

1. Enable the cash advance feature on your credit card
2. Set a PIN specifically for cash advances
3. Check your available credit limit, fees, and interest rates

While abroad, locate an ATM that displays the same logo as your card (e.g., VISA, MasterCard), insert your card, and enter your cash advance PIN to withdraw local currency. Keep in mind that fees for credit card withdrawals are typically much higher than those for debit cards, and additional charges may apply depending on the ATM's local bank. It's best to treat credit card withdrawals as a last resort—for example, when you’re out of cash, can’t use your debit card, and the store doesn’t accept credit card payments.

Even after activating overseas withdrawal services, keep in mind that not all ATMs in Japan accept foreign-issued cards. Before your trip, it’s a good idea to check which bank ATMs are compatible and note their locations along your travel route—this way, you can avoid the hassle of hunting for a working machine when you need cash.

Accepted Cards:
VISA, MasterCard, American Express, JCB, UnionPay, Discover, Diners Club, Maestro, CIRRUS, PLUS

Important Notes:
・Some cards with supported logos may still be unusable or incur additional issuer fees.
・Non-Japanese cards have a withdrawal limit of 100,000 yen per transaction.
・Magstripe-only cards (without IC chips) are limited to 30,000 yen per transaction.
・ATM interface supports 12 languages, including English and Traditional Chinese.

E-net ATMs are commonly found in FamilyMart stores and also at popular spots like Don Quijote and Sanrio Puroland, making them a convenient option while sightseeing.

Accepted Cards:
VISA, MasterCard, UnionPay, JCB, CIRRUS, PLUS

Important Notes:
・Even if your card displays a supported logo, it may not always work depending on the issuer.
・Fees vary depending on your card type and issuing bank, and additional fees may apply.
・IC chip cards can withdraw up to 100,000 yen per transaction.
・Magstripe-only cards are limited to 40,000 yen per transaction.
・ATM interface supports Japanese, English, Chinese, and Korean.

With locations all across Japan, Japan Post Bank ATMs are a reliable option when you’re short on cash. In addition to those inside post offices, some ATMs are installed at convenience stores, offering extended hours for added convenience.

Accepted Cards:
VISA, VISA Electron, PLUS, MasterCard, Maestro, Cirrus, American Express, Diners Club, JCB, UnionPay, Discover

Important Notes:
・Maximum withdrawal per transaction is 50,000 yen.
・Fees vary by card type and issuing bank; additional fees may also apply.
・ATM interface supports up to 16 languages, including English and Traditional Chinese.

AEON Bank ATMs, located inside AEON Group stores, also support withdrawals using foreign-issued cards.

Accepted Cards:
UnionPay, VISA, PLUS, MasterCard, Maestro, Cirrus, JCB

Important Notes:
・Fees may apply depending on AEON Bank policies or your card issuer.
・Maximum withdrawal per transaction is 50,000 yen.
・ATM interface supports only Japanese and English.

Accepted Cards:
UnionPay, VISA, PLUS, MasterCard, Maestro, Cirrus, Discover, JCB

Important Notes:
・Maximum withdrawal per transaction is 50,000 yen.
・Card usability and hours may vary by ATM and card type.
・Even if your card shows a supported logo, some may not work.
・Fees vary depending on card type and issuing bank; additional charges may apply.
・ATM interface supports five languages, including English and Traditional Chinese.

Accepted Cards:
UnionPay, VISA, PLUS, MasterCard, Maestro, Cirrus, JCB

Important Notes:
・Maximum withdrawal per transaction is 50,000 yen.
・Even if your card displays a supported logo, it may not always be accepted.
・ATM interface is available in Japanese and English only.

Some ATMs in Japan Have Operating Hours
Unlike in some countries where ATMs are available 24/7, many in Japan—especially those in post offices or traditional banks like MUFG, Mizuho, or SMBC—have limited hours. For example, post office ATMs typically operate from 7 AM to 11 PM on weekdays and close earlier on weekends and national holidays. To avoid inconvenience, it's best to rely on convenience store ATMs (such as 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, or Lawson), which usually offer extended hours.

Fees Can Vary by Time
ATM fees in Japan often change depending on the time of day and the type of transaction. You might encounter charges of 110, 220, or even 330 yen. To save on fees, consider withdrawing a larger amount in one go rather than multiple smaller transactions.

Some ATMs Accept Coin Deposits
Certain ATMs in Japan even allow you to deposit coins—handy if you’ve accumulated too much loose change!

Using an ATM in Japan is quite straightforward—even if it’s your first time. Here's a step-by-step guide to withdrawing cash. Some machines may not support your language, so we’ve included the Japanese terms for easy reference:

1. Insert your card (カード)
2. Select your preferred language
3. Press the "Withdrawal" button (お引き出し)
4. Choose the account to withdraw from
5. Enter the amount (Note: ATMs outside of bank branches may not dispense coins)
6. Confirm the amount
7. Enter your PIN (暗証番号) and press “Confirm” (確認)
8. Collect your cash, card (カード), and receipt (明細票)

Many convenience store ATMs support multiple languages, including English, Chinese, and Korean—making them especially user-friendly for international visitors.

Japan now offers Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC), a service that lets you choose to pay in your home currency or in Japanese yen when using a credit card.

DCC allows cardholders to decide at the point of purchase whether to be charged in the local currency or their home currency, helping avoid surprises on your billing statement. It’s available at many hotels, department stores, luxury retailers, and even at 7-Bank ATMs, where you can instantly see the converted amount.

To get the best deal, check real-time exchange rates using a currency app or Google before deciding whether to use DCC.

Since ATM withdrawals in Japan often come with transaction fees, using alternative payment methods can help you save. In most urban areas, IC cards like Suica and Pasmo, as well as mobile payments such as Apple Pay, Google Pay, and PayPay, are widely accepted. Be sure to set them up in advance for a smoother and more cost-effective experience!

With just one card, you can withdraw cash in Japan even if you're low on yen—and thanks to Dynamic Currency Conversion, you can see the amount in your home currency before confirming. No more stressing about running out of cash mid-shopping spree—just pack your bags and enjoy your trip with peace of mind!

(Originally published in February 2019, updated in June 2025. For the latest details, please refer to official sources.)