The Best Currency Exchange Method in Japan
When traveling to Japan, one important thing to consider is how to exchanging your money for the most bang for your buck. How you do this can affect how much money you have for your trip. In this simple guide, we'll look at different ways to exchange your money in Japan so you get the most for your bucks.
How to Exchange Money in Japan:
ATMs: Good Rates, But It Depends on Your Bank
Many people like using ATMs at 7-11 stores because they usually have low fees (100- 200 yen) per transaction. The exchange rate will depend on your bank. You should ask your bank about foreign transaction fees and their current rate at the time of travel.
Local Banks Before Your Trip
A prepared traveler will exchange their money prior to departure. Your local banks can do the exchange for you but most of the time they do charge a fee. Depending on which country we go to, we usually consider this option but for Japan we don’t find this necessary because of the other better options on this list.
Airport Exchanges: Quick, But Not Always the Best Deal
Airports have places where you can change your money. It's fast and easy, but the rates at airports may not be the best. It's a good idea to exchange only a small amount at the airport and save the rest for better rates elsewhere while in Japan.
Currency Exchange Machines: Worse Exchange Rates
There are machines that can change your money, but they often give you less money and may charge extra fees. You’ll find them at hotels or shopping centers but it's better to avoid these machines.
Ticket Discount Stores (KINKEN): Great Rates
One secret to getting a good deal is to go to ticket discount stores called KINKEN. They have some of the best rates in Japan. On our last trip, the spot rate was $1 to ¥147 and the kinken shop was exchanging at $1 for ¥143 compared to ¥137 at one of the currency exchange machines. You can find these stores all over Tokyo. Just search for "TICKET SHOP" on google maps. But remember, the rates can be different at different kinken stores, so check first!
The store that we frequent is in Ginza called "Tickets Ranger Ginza 3." It's in Tokyo, Chuo City, Ginza, at this address: Tickets Ranger Ginza 3 Japan, 〒104-0061 Tokyo, Chuo City, Ginza, 3 Chome−2−13 江戸常ビル１Ｆ 江戸常ビル
When you're in Japan, you have many choices for exchanging your money. Each way has its good and bad points. ATMs and local banks are easy, but Kinken stores often give you the best deal. Although credit cards are widely accepted, having some cash on you while traveling is still safer. You don’t want to be stuck in a position where you can’t pay. Think about your needs and what's most important to you when choosing how to exchange your money. Make sure to compare rates before you go to Japan to make the most of your trip!
Visit a Kinken shop with us:
