Cash Withdrawal Guide in Japan: For Foreign Travelers　　　　　　as of Sep 2025

While cashless payment is becoming more widespread in Japan, cash is still often required in many places, especially in rural areas and small, independent shops. To ensure a smooth cash withdrawal experience during your trip, please refer to the information below.

1. Types of ATMs You Can Use

While there are ATMs from various banks in Japan, the following three types are generally the easiest for foreign travelers to use:

• Japan Post Bank (ゆうちょ銀行) ATMs

  • These ATMs are found all over Japan and are especially convenient in rural areas.

  • They support major international card brands (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Plus, Cirrus, JCB, etc.).

  • English language display is available.

• Seven Bank (セブン銀行) ATMs

  • Located inside Seven-Eleven convenience stores nationwide, many of these ATMs are available 24 hours a day.

  • They widely support major international card brands (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Plus, Cirrus, JCB, etc.).

  • English language display is available.

• AEON Bank (イオン銀行) ATMs

  • These are located inside AEON Group shopping malls and supermarkets.

  • They also support major international card brands, and English display is available.

Other Bank ATMs (e.g., MUFG Bank, Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corp.)

While major bank ATMs may also accept international cards, their number of locations is more limited compared to Japan Post Bank or Seven Bank, and operating hours can vary. Therefore, the three types of ATMs listed above are generally the most convenient.

2. Types of Cards You Can Use

Most international credit and debit cards can be used. Please check if your card displays the following logos:

• Credit/Debit Card Brands:

  • Visa

  • MasterCard

  • American Express (Amex)

  • JCB (As a Japanese brand, it’s very smooth to use in Japan)

  • Diners Club

• ATM Network Brands:

  • Plus (Visa network)

  • Cirrus (MasterCard network)

  • Maestro (MasterCard network)

【Important!】

• Check withdrawal limits in advance: Before traveling to Japan, it’s recommended to confirm your overseas ATM withdrawal limit with your card issuer.

• Confirm your PIN: Japanese ATMs require a 4-digit Personal Identification Number (PIN) for card transactions. Make sure you remember it.

3. ATM Locations

• Convenience Stores:

  • Seven-Eleven: Seven Bank ATMs are installed inside Seven-Eleven stores nationwide. This is one of the easiest and most accessible locations.

  • Lawson & FamilyMart: These convenience stores also have ATMs, but their support for international cards may not be as extensive as Seven Bank ATMs.

• Post Offices:

  • Japan Post Bank ATMs are installed in post offices across Japan. They are easy to find in both urban and rural areas.

• Airports:

  • Major international airports (Narita, Haneda, Kansai, etc.) have multiple bank ATMs in the arrival lobbies and other areas. This is convenient if you need cash immediately upon arrival in Japan.

• Shopping Malls/Department Stores:

  • AEON Bank ATMs are found in AEON Group shopping malls, and other department stores may also have bank ATMs.

• Train Stations:

  • Larger train stations often have bank ATMs within their premises.

4. Important Points When Using ATMs

• Fees: Cash withdrawals with internationally issued cards may incur fees from both your card issuer and the Japanese bank operating the ATM (typically around 220 JPY).

• Exchange Rate: The exchange rate applied during ATM withdrawals varies depending on your card issuer and the international brand.

• Comparison with Currency Exchange: While ATM withdrawals are convenient for small amounts, for larger sums, it might be worth comparing the fees and exchange rates with currency exchange counters at airports or major train stations.

• Skimming Prevention: When using an ATM, be aware of your surroundings, cover the keypad with your hand when entering your PIN, and practice basic anti-skimming precautions.