How to Withdraw Money from an ATM in Japan

Withdrawing money from an ATM in Japan may seem daunting at first, especially if you are unfamiliar with the language and the banking system. But fear not, because Japan has made the process straightforward, even for foreigners. In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through the step-by-step process of withdrawing cash from ATMs in Japan, addressing common challenges, tips, and the best practices to ensure you have access to cash wherever you are. Let's dive into everything you need to know, including the types of ATMs, fees, language options, and security precautions.

Did You Know That Not All ATMs in Japan Accept Foreign Cards?
Yes, one of the main obstacles foreigners face when trying to withdraw cash in Japan is finding an ATM that accepts international cards. While many banks and smaller ATMs cater primarily to Japanese customers, there are convenient options for foreign travelers and expatriates. ATMs at post offices, 7-Eleven convenience stores, FamilyMart, and Lawson stores are known for accepting major international cards such as Visa, Mastercard, and American Express.

Step 1: Finding an ATM That Accepts Foreign Cards

Before you can even think about withdrawing money, the first step is identifying an ATM that works with your card. Convenience stores like 7-Eleven, Lawson, and FamilyMart are highly reliable options as they almost always support international cards. Japan Post ATMs, located at post offices, are another safe bet. These machines often provide English, Chinese, and Korean language support, making navigation easier for non-Japanese speakers.

Here are some of the common ATM logos to look for:

ATM	International Card Support	Languages Available
7-Eleven ATM	Visa, Mastercard, Amex, UnionPay	English, Chinese, Korean
Japan Post	Visa, Mastercard, Amex, Discover	English, Chinese, Korean
Lawson ATM	Visa, Mastercard, Amex, JCB	English, Chinese, Korean
Aeon Bank	Visa, Mastercard, UnionPay	English, Chinese

Pro Tip: It’s also worth downloading apps like Google Maps to locate the nearest ATM that supports international cards. Most apps provide real-time updates on which ATMs accept foreign cards and are open 24 hours.

Step 2: Inserting Your Card and Choosing a Language

Once you've found a compatible ATM, the next step is inserting your card. ATMs that accept international cards usually display a sticker indicating which cards they support (Visa, Mastercard, etc.) and have a button for selecting your preferred language.

After inserting your card, choose your language. Most ATMs will prompt you to choose between Japanese, English, Chinese, and Korean. Selecting the language early on makes the process much smoother, as all further instructions and options will be displayed in your preferred language.

Step 3: Selecting the Type of Transaction

Next, the ATM will ask you what type of transaction you would like to perform. Options typically include:

• Withdrawal (the most common)
• Balance Inquiry
• Deposit (rarely available for international cards)
• Money Transfer (not available for foreign cards)

Since we are focusing on withdrawing money, select "Withdrawal." Some machines might ask you to specify which type of account you are withdrawing from, such as a checking account, savings account, or credit account. For most international travelers, choosing "Savings" is the correct option.

Step 4: Entering the Amount

Once you select "Withdrawal," you’ll be prompted to enter the amount you wish to withdraw. Japanese ATMs are typically loaded with yen, and you’ll be withdrawing yen from your account. Keep in mind the minimum and maximum withdrawal limits, which can vary depending on the machine and your bank. Many machines allow a minimum withdrawal of 1,000 yen (roughly $10) and have a maximum limit between 50,000 and 100,000 yen per transaction.

ATM Withdrawal Fees:
It's important to note that there may be two types of fees associated with your withdrawal:

1. ATM Fees – These are charges imposed by the ATM owner (such as 7-Eleven or Japan Post). These fees can range from 100 to 200 yen per transaction.
2. Foreign Transaction Fees – Your bank may impose a foreign transaction fee for withdrawing in a foreign currency. This fee is typically between 1% and 3% of the transaction amount.

Pro Tip: Always try to withdraw larger amounts in fewer transactions to avoid paying multiple ATM fees.

Step 5: Confirming the Transaction

After entering the amount, the ATM will display a summary of your transaction, including any associated fees. Double-check that everything is correct before proceeding. Once you confirm the transaction, the machine will dispense your money, and you can collect it from the slot. Don’t forget to retrieve your card and receipt afterward.

Why Are Some ATMs Unavailable Late at Night?
While Japan is known for its convenience, one quirk is that many ATMs (particularly those in rural areas or smaller banks) close during late-night hours. Even some 24-hour ATMs, like those at post offices, may have maintenance periods where they are temporarily unavailable. If you find yourself needing cash late at night, 7-Eleven ATMs are typically open 24 hours, making them the most reliable option.

Step 6: Ensuring Security

Using ATMs safely in Japan requires taking a few common-sense precautions. While Japan is one of the safest countries in the world, it's still smart to be cautious.

1. Cover your PIN – Always shield the keypad when entering your PIN to avoid prying eyes or hidden cameras.
2. Be aware of your surroundings – While theft is rare, being mindful of who is around you is a good practice.
3. Keep receipts – In case of any discrepancies, having a receipt provides proof of the transaction.

What Happens If Your Card Is Declined?

One frustrating scenario is when your card gets declined by the ATM. This can happen for several reasons:

• Your bank blocked international transactions. Contact your bank before traveling to ensure your card will work in Japan.
• Exceeded daily withdrawal limits. Some banks impose limits on how much you can withdraw in a day, even if you have sufficient funds.
• Technical issues with the ATM or your card. In such cases, trying another ATM or waiting for a few hours may solve the issue.

Emergency Alternatives:
If your card is not working and you need cash urgently, consider using a currency exchange service at airports, hotels, or large department stores. These services often come with higher fees than ATMs but can serve as a backup in an emergency.

Tips for a Smooth Withdrawal Experience

• Use ATMs during daytime hours for the best availability and avoid possible maintenance issues.
• Download bank apps that allow you to monitor your balance and transactions in real-time, helping to keep track of fees and limits.
• Know your bank's policies on foreign withdrawals, including limits and any extra charges.
• Carry a backup card or some emergency cash in case you encounter issues with your primary card.

Conclusion

Withdrawing money from an ATM in Japan may seem a bit intimidating at first, but it’s a simple process if you know what to expect. Whether you're using a 7-Eleven, Japan Post, or Lawson ATM, the steps are essentially the same: find an ATM, insert your card, choose your language, select withdrawal, and enter your desired amount. Understanding the fees and using international-friendly ATMs will make your experience hassle-free.

If you're prepared and follow these steps, you'll have no problem accessing your money whenever and wherever you need it in Japan.