Exchange Foreign Currency At Narita Airport: Is It Possible?

can i exchange money in narita airport

If you're travelling to Japan, it's a good idea to exchange your money when you arrive at the airport. Tokyo Narita Airport (NRT) has currency exchange services, ATMs, and banks where you can exchange your money. While credit cards and international ATM cards are widely accepted in Japan, it is still largely a cash-based society, so it's a good idea to have some Japanese yen on hand when you leave the airport. There are currency exchange counters and machines throughout the terminals, and you can also exchange money at major banks and post offices, though this may take longer and is subject to banking hours.

Characteristics Values
Currency exchange availability Yes, currency exchange is available at Narita Airport. There are currency exchange counters and currency exchange machines.
Exchange rates Exchange rates at the airport are the same as at the banks. However, airport exchange rates may be poorer than those found elsewhere.
Transaction fees Transaction fees at the airport may be high.
Accepted currencies 34 currencies are handled at GPA stores within Narita Airport.
Recommended alternatives Using international ATM cards, credit cards, or the WISE card for exchanging and withdrawing money may be more convenient and cost-effective.

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Currency exchange stores at Narita Airport

If you're looking to exchange currency at Narita Airport, you're in luck! The airport offers a variety of currency exchange stores and services to meet your needs. Here is some information to help you navigate currency exchange at the airport:

  • GREENPORT AGENCY (GPA) Currency Exchange: GPA is the primary currency exchange service provider at Narita Airport. They operate under the management of the Narita Airport corporate group and have a wide presence throughout the airport. GPA offers exchange services for 34 different currencies, more than any other currency exchange store at the airport. You can find GPA currency exchange counters in both the departure and arrival lobbies of the North and South Wings. They also have automatic currency exchange machines available for added convenience.
  • Wide Selection of Currencies: Narita Airport prides itself on offering one of the widest selections of world currencies available for exchange in all of Japan. This means that you should have no trouble exchanging your foreign currency for Japanese Yen at the airport.
  • Exchange Rates: It's important to note that the exchange rates displayed by GPA are for reference only and may not be the exact rates offered at the time of exchange. Rates can change due to market fluctuations or current events. Be sure to check the rates offered at the store before finalizing your currency exchange.
  • Money Laundering Prevention: To comply with regulations and prevent money laundering, GPA may ask customers exchanging large amounts of currency to provide additional information. This can include filling out a foreign currency exchange voucher with your name and phone number or flight number. There may also be daily exchange limits, typically set at 5 million JPY per day for a single customer.
  • Traveler's Checks and Cards: If you prefer to use traveler's checks or cards, Narita Airport recommends exchanging them for cash at the airport. It can be difficult to exchange these once you leave the airport or when using ATMs in Japan. International ATM cards and credit cards are widely accepted in Japan, but it's always a good idea to carry some local currency for smaller purchases or when visiting rural areas.
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ATM withdrawals at the airport

When it comes to ATM withdrawals at Narita Airport, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, while Japan has become more accepting of international ATM cards and credit cards, it is still largely a cash-based society. Therefore, it is recommended to have some Japanese Yen on hand when leaving the airport.

At Narita Airport, there are various ATMs available, including those from Seven Bank, JP Bank, and Aeon Bank, which generally accept foreign cards. It is important to note that domestic Japanese ATMs typically do not accept international cards, so it is advisable to use the specific ATMs mentioned. Additionally, the Seven Bank ATM has an upper limit of 100,000 yen per transaction, and you will receive five 10,000-yen bills when withdrawing 50,000 yen. The Japan Post Bank ATM also accepts international credit and debit cards, with a withdrawal limit of 50,000 yen per transaction. These ATMs can be found in post offices and FamilyMart convenience stores, which are abundant in Japan.

It is worth noting that while credit cards are widely accepted at hotels, restaurants, and stores, smaller shops, taxis, and other occasions may require cash payments. Therefore, it is essential to carry some Japanese Yen during your stay in Japan.

When using an ATM at Narita Airport or elsewhere in Japan, be mindful of foreign transaction fees that may be charged by your bank or card issuer. These fees can vary, so it is recommended to check with your financial institution before your trip. Additionally, be cautious of currency exchange machines at the airport, as they may offer less favourable exchange rates than bank ATMs.

In summary, when withdrawing money from ATMs at Narita Airport, use international card-friendly ATMs like Seven Bank, JP Bank, or Aeon Bank, and be aware of transaction limits and potential fees. It is also advisable to have some Japanese Yen with you when leaving the airport, as finding currency exchange services outside the airport can be challenging.

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Exchanging traveller's checks at the airport

While it is possible to exchange traveller's cheques at the airport, it is important to note that they are now a less common medium of exchange. Credit cards, debit cards, and prepaid travel cards have largely replaced traveller's cheques as a more convenient and widely accepted form of payment. However, if you prefer to use traveller's cheques, here is some information to help you exchange them at the airport.

First, traveller's cheques are issued by major financial institutions and can be purchased for a fixed amount in various currencies. They are similar to regular cheques, with a unique check number or serial number, and can be used to buy goods or services when travelling. One of the benefits of traveller's cheques is security. If they are lost or stolen, they can be reported, and the issuing company will cancel that cheque and provide a new one. This provides peace of mind, especially when travelling to places where ATMs are not easily accessible.

When exchanging traveller's cheques at the airport, look for currency exchange stores or banks located within the airport premises. These stores typically handle a range of currencies and can assist you in exchanging your traveller's cheques for the local currency. Make sure to carry your original cheque purchase receipt and a form of photo identification, as these may be required during the exchange process. Be aware that there may be fees associated with exchanging traveller's cheques, and the exchange rates offered at the airport may differ from those at banks or other financial institutions outside the airport.

It is recommended to research the specific currency exchange stores or banks available at Narita Airport and their exchange rates ahead of your arrival. This will help you make an informed decision about exchanging your traveller's cheques and ensure you have the necessary documentation and identification required for the exchange process. Additionally, keep in mind that some hotels, resorts, and currency traders outside the airport may also offer traveller's cheque cashing services, so you may have other options beyond the airport.

Finally, it is worth noting that traveller's cheques are not as widely accepted as other forms of payment. Modern alternatives, such as credit cards, debit cards, or prepaid travel cards may offer more convenience and widespread acceptance. Consider comparing the fees and benefits of these alternatives before deciding if traveller's cheques are the best option for your travel needs.

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Using a WISE card to exchange currency

Currency exchange is available at Narita Airport, with GPA stores within the airport handling 34 currencies, more than any other currency exchange store at the airport. However, it is recommended to exchange money before arriving in Japan, as some countries offer better exchange rates for yen than in Japan. For example, you will get a better exchange rate for yen in Southeast Asian countries than in Japan, but if you are travelling from the United States, it is better to wait and exchange money in Japan.

Using a WISE card is a convenient and safe way to exchange, withdraw, and spend money while travelling. The WISE Multi-Currency Card is a debit card linked to your WISE account, which can be used for spending and cash withdrawals in over 160 countries and in over 40 currencies. You can use your WISE card anywhere Mastercard is accepted, and you can withdraw money from ATMs with minimal fees.

To use your WISE card, simply top up your WISE account with the funds you expect to spend when you are away. You can then either convert to the currencies you need within WISE or use the card's auto-convert feature to instantly switch your balance to the currency you need with the lowest possible fees. You can also use the WISE app to freeze and unfreeze your card whenever you need to and to receive instant transaction notifications.

It is important to note that you must activate your WISE Multi-Currency Card and set a PIN before you travel, and this can only be done in the US. Additionally, there is a short list of countries in which a WISE Multi-Currency Card issued in the US will not be accepted, including Afghanistan, Belarus, Bolivia, Cambodia, Burundi, Central African Republic, Chad, Congo, Cuba, Ethiopia, Eritrea, Iran, Iraq, and several others.

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Exchanging money before arriving in Japan

If you are travelling to Japan, it is a good idea to do some research and make preparations regarding exchanging currency before your trip. While it is possible to exchange money at Japan's Narita Airport, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, exchanging money at the airport often comes with poor exchange rates and high transaction fees. Therefore, it is recommended to treat this option as a last resort.

Instead, you may want to consider exchanging money before arriving in Japan, depending on your country of origin. For example, if you are travelling from Southeast Asian countries, you will get a better exchange rate for yen there than in Japan. However, if you are travelling from the United States, it is advisable to wait until you arrive in Japan, as the exchange rate for dollars is more favourable there.

Another option to consider is using a WISE card, which allows you to transfer funds into foreign currency and withdraw money from ATMs with minimal fees. International ATM cards are accepted in Japan, but they only work on select machines, and it is recommended to have some Japanese yen cash on hand when you arrive.

Additionally, it is important to be aware of the current exchange rate and to check for any hidden fees or markups associated with currency exchange services. By doing your research and planning ahead, you can ensure that you get the best value for your money when exchanging currency for your trip to Japan.

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Frequently asked questions

Yes, there are currency exchange services available at Tokyo Narita Airport. These include GPA currency exchange stores, which handle 34 currencies, currency exchange counters, and currency exchange machines.

Exchange rates at the airport are the same as at the banks. However, some sources advise against exchanging money at the airport due to potentially poor exchange rates and high transaction fees. It is recommended that you research the current exchange rate before exchanging your money.

You can exchange money at major hotels, large banks, and post offices. International ATM cards are accepted in Japan, and you can withdraw Japanese yen from ATMs.

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