Getting Yen

The Japanese Yen is the currency of Japan.  The currency code for Yen is JPY, and the currency symbol is ¥.

How to get cash in ¥

At bank counters in international airports, you can exchange your cash in major currencies into yen. You can also withdraw cash in yen at ATMs in airports and towns using your cash cards with PLUS or CIRRUS logo marks. Credit cards issued outside Japan are also available at ATMs run by Japan Post, 7-Eleven Bank, and Aeon Bank.

The following are ATMs easily found in town and available with international cards.

ATMs run by

Available Card Types

Japan Post

VISA, PLUS, MasterCard, Maestro, CIRRCUS, Union Pay, VISA ELECTRON, PLUS, MasterCard, Cirrus, American Express, Diners Club, JCB, UnionPay, DISCOVER

 

7-Eleven Banks

VISA, PLUS, MasterCard, Maestro, CIRRUS, Union Pay, American Express, JCB,  DISCOVER, Diners Club International

Aeon Banks

VISA, PLUS, MasterCard, Maestro, CIRRUS, Union Pay

(*1) Some Maestro cards with an IC chip cannot be used.  Please verify with MasterCard in advance.

These ATMs are available in English. ATMs at 7-Eleven stores are available 24 hours around the year.

The nearest ATM from Kashiwa campus which accepts overseas credit cards with PLUS or CIRRUS logo marks:

Kashiwanoha Campus Post Office nearby Kashiwanoha Campus Station:  
https://global.map.japanpost.jp/p/en/search/dtl/300105700000/

 

In order to use international ATMs, ensure the following at home before leaving for Japan:

  1. Make sure that your credit or debit card is available for use in Japan.
  2. Confirm service charges and/or monthly limits associated with international withdrawals.
  3. Remember your card's secret 4-digit PIN.
  4. Notify your bank that you are going to use your card overseas, since many banks will block a card when suddenly used abroad, suspecting fraud.

Even though credit cards are becoming more and more common, Japan is still largely a cash-based society, especially at small restaurants. Make sure you carry enough cash with you.

Personal checks are not used at all in Japan. 

In addition to banks and ATMs, it is also possible to exchange money at the World Currency Shop near Kashiwa Station.  They open even on weekend.

https://www.tokyo-card.co.jp/exchange/

 Access map of the World Currency Shop located in Kashiwa:

https://www.tokyo-card.co.jp/exchange/shop.php