How to Use ATMs and Withdraw Cash in Japan (Easy Guide for First-Time Visitors)

05/21/2026

Uncategorized

Japan is becoming more cashless, but many travelers still use cash during their trip.

Some small restaurants, temples, local shops, and older ticket machines may not accept foreign credit cards.

The good news is:

For most tourists, withdrawing cash in Japan is usually simple if you use the right ATM.

This guide explains:

which ATMs work best for foreign cards
where to find them
how to withdraw cash
how much cash you may need
common mistakes to avoid

Quick Recommendation

For most first-time visitors, using a 7-Eleven ATM or a Japan Post Bank ATM is usually the easiest option.

These ATMs:

support many international cards
offer English menus
are easy to find
are commonly used by foreign travelers

If you are unsure, start with a 7-Eleven ATM.

Best ATMs for Foreign Tourists in Japan

ATM	Best For	English Support	Easy to Find	Notes
7-Eleven ATM	Most tourists	Yes	Very easy	Usually the safest choice
Japan Post Bank ATM	Reliable backup	Yes	Easy	Found at post offices and some stations
Lawson ATM	Convenience store users	Yes	Easy	Usually works well
FamilyMart ATM	Backup option	Depends on machine	Easy	Some machines may vary

Do You Need Cash in Japan?

Japan now accepts many cashless payment methods, especially in large cities.

You can often use:

credit cards
Visa touch payment
Apple Pay
IC cards like Suica

However, cash is still useful in some situations.

You may still need cash for:

small restaurants
temples and shrines
local shops
older ticket machines
rural areas
some bars
some taxis

In Tokyo, many travelers can mostly stay cashless in major tourist areas.

But carrying some cash is still recommended.

How Much Cash Should You Carry?

For most travelers in Tokyo:

around ¥10,000 to ¥20,000 is usually enough as daily backup cash

You do not need to carry a very large amount all the time.

Japan is generally safe, but carrying less cash is still more comfortable and practical.

Where to Find ATMs in Japan

Convenience store ATMs are usually the easiest option for foreign travelers.

The two most reliable choices are usually Seven Bank ATMs and Japan Post Bank ATMs.

7-Eleven Convenience Store ATMs

7-Eleven ATMs are usually the easiest choice for foreign tourists.

You can find them:

at airports
near train stations
inside cities
in tourist areas

According to the official Seven Bank website, these ATMs support many international card brands, including:

Visa
Mastercard
Maestro
Cirrus
UnionPay
American Express
JCB
DISCOVER
Diners Club

The ATM menu is available in multiple languages, including English.

If you want to check supported cards or ATM locations before your trip, you can use the official guide below.

Official Seven Bank ATM Guide

Japan Post Bank ATMs

Japan Post Bank ATMs are another reliable option for foreign travelers.

You can often find them:

inside post offices
at some train stations
inside airports

According to the official Japan Post Bank information, these ATMs support many international cards, including:

Visa
PLUS
Mastercard
Maestro
Cirrus
JCB
UnionPay
DISCOVER

The service is also available in English.

These ATMs are useful if nearby convenience store ATMs do not work.

You can also check the official Japan Post Bank ATM information below.

Official Japan Post Bank ATM Guide

How to Withdraw Cash from a Japanese ATM

The process is usually simple.

Step 1: Insert Your Card

Insert your:

debit card
travel card
credit card

Physical cards are usually more reliable than contactless payment for ATM withdrawals.

Step 2: Choose Your Language

Most tourist-friendly ATMs offer English menus.

Seven Bank ATMs also support multiple additional languages.

Step 3: Select “Withdrawal”

Choose:

“Withdrawal”
or “Cash Withdrawal”

Step 4: Choose Your Account Type

You may see options such as:

Savings
Checking
Credit

Most travelers should usually choose:

Checking
or Credit

depending on their card.

If one option does not work, try another.

Step 5: Enter Your PIN and Amount

Enter:

your PIN number
the amount you want to withdraw

Japanese ATMs use Japanese yen.

Example:

10,000 = ¥10,000

Step 6: Currency Conversion Screen

Some ATMs may ask:

whether you want conversion into your home currency

In many cases, selecting:

“Japanese Yen”
or “Without Conversion”

usually gives a better exchange rate.

This feature is often called Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC).

Step 7: Take Your Cash and Card

Do not forget:

your card
your cash
your receipt

Some travelers accidentally leave their card inside the ATM.

Common Problems Tourists Face

“My Card Does Not Work”

This is not unusual.

Possible reasons include:

your bank blocked overseas transactions
the ATM does not support your card
your card requires PIN verification
your daily withdrawal limit was reached

Try:

another ATM
another convenience store
another card

7-Eleven ATMs usually have one of the highest success rates for foreign cards.

“The ATM Charges a Fee”

This is normal.

Possible fees may include:

Japanese ATM fees
overseas withdrawal fees from your bank
exchange rate fees

The exact fee depends on:

your bank
your card provider
the ATM
the withdrawal time

It is a good idea to check your bank’s overseas ATM policy before traveling.

Is It Better to Exchange Money at the Airport?

For many travelers, using an ATM in Japan is usually easier and often provides a better exchange rate than airport exchange counters.

However, carrying a small amount of Japanese yen before arriving can still reduce stress after landing.

Especially if:

your flight arrives late at night
your card has problems
you need immediate transportation

Practical Tips from a Local Perspective

Convenience Stores Are Extremely Useful in Japan

Japanese convenience stores are more than small shops.

For travelers, they are useful places for:

ATMs
drinks and food
SIM pickup
payment services
daily necessities

You will probably use convenience stores very often during your trip.

Some Rural Areas Still Prefer Cash

Tokyo is becoming increasingly cashless.

However, cash is still more common in:

rural areas
small towns
older restaurants
local businesses

If you plan to travel outside major cities, carrying some cash is still helpful.

How to Use Suica Card for Trains in Japan
What First-Time Visitors Should Do After Arriving at Narita Airport
Best eSIM for Japan Travel
Best Payment Methods in Japan for Tourists

Conclusion

For most first-time visitors, withdrawing cash in Japan is usually simple if you use the right ATM.

The easiest options are usually:

7-Eleven ATMs
Japan Post Bank ATMs

Japan is becoming more cashless, but carrying some cash is still recommended for a smoother trip.

Once you understand how Japanese ATMs work, traveling in Japan becomes much less stressful.

What First-Time Visitors Should Do After Arriving at Narita Airport

How to Use Trains in Tokyo for First-Time Visitors