How Does ATMs & Cash Work in Japan?
Last verified: 2025-06 · Asia
1The Quick Answer
Japan is heavily cash-based — always carry yen. 7-Eleven (Seven Bank) ATMs are the most reliable for foreign cards.
2What You Need to Know
Despite being a technologically advanced country, Japan remains strongly cash-oriented. Many restaurants, temples, smaller shops, and rural businesses accept cash only. The most reliable ATMs for foreign Visa, Mastercard, and Maestro cards are Seven Bank ATMs inside every 7-Eleven convenience store, followed by Japan Post ATMs. Both are available 24/7. Always carry at least ¥10,000 in cash as a buffer, especially when leaving major cities. Regular bank ATMs often do not accept foreign cards.
3Practical Tips
Practical Tips
- 1Use 7-Eleven (Seven Bank) ATMs as your primary cash source — they reliably accept most foreign cards
- 2Withdraw larger amounts at once to minimize transaction fees charged by your home bank
- 3Keep small denominations (¥1,000 notes) for vending machines, small shops, and coin lockers
Important Warning
Many restaurants, shrines, local markets, and rural businesses are strictly cash-only. Never assume card payment is accepted outside major tourist spots.
How does this compare?
ATMs & Cash rules in nearby and similar countries:
Thai ATMs charge a 220 baht fee per foreign card withdrawal — minimise withdrawals, carry cash for markets and temples, and always choose to be charged in Thai baht.
ATMs from DBS, OCBC, UOB, and POSB are widespread, but contactless payments and e-wallets are accepted almost everywhere in Singapore.
Use ATMs from major banks like SBI, HDFC, ICICI, or AXIS — they reliably accept foreign cards, and always carry cash as many small vendors and rural areas are cash-only.
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