Ruth Haines
If you're travelling to Japan, you may be wondering whether you can exchange your US dollars for Japanese yen at Narita Airport. The short answer is yes, you can. In fact, it's recommended that you exchange your money at the airport when you arrive, as you'll likely need yen to pay for meals, transportation, and other small purchases once you leave the airport. While you can also exchange money at major hotels or use ATMs, the rates may not be as favourable. It's worth noting that exchange rates can vary between stores at the airport, so be sure to check the rate before completing your transaction. Additionally, some stores may not have your desired currency available, so it's best to inquire in advance if possible.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Ability to exchange USD for JPY | Yes |
| Exchange rate | Varies from store to store |
| Exchange rate at airport vs. elsewhere | Airport rates are the same as at banks; better than in the US but worse than in Southeast Asian countries |
| Exchange options at Narita Airport | GPA stores (34 currencies), Seven Bank and Mizuho ATMs, currency exchange desks |
| Tips | Exchange enough cash to cover incidentals (meals, vending machines, taxis, entrance fees); many small shops and restaurants may not accept credit cards |
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What You'll Learn
Exchanging USD cash at Narita Airport
Exchanging USD to JPY at Narita Airport is a straightforward process and a good idea, as you will get a better rate than in the US.
The airport has several currency exchange stores, including GPA stores, which handle 34 currencies, more than any other currency exchange store at the airport. Exchange rates vary from store to store, so it is worth checking the rate at each store before exchanging your money. Some stores may not have your desired currency available, and some may not accept certain banknotes due to procurement conditions.
It is recommended that you exchange enough cash at the airport to cover incidentals such as meals, transportation, and entrance fees, as it can be difficult to find places to exchange money once you leave the airport. Many small shops and restaurants, especially in rural areas, may not accept credit cards. However, international ATM cards and credit cards are widely accepted in Japan, so this may be a good option for you.
If you are using traveller's checks, it is best to exchange them at the airport, as it will be difficult to do so elsewhere.
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Exchange rates at the airport
While it is possible to exchange currency at the airport, it is generally recommended that you order foreign currency from your bank before travelling, as airport currency exchanges often offer poor exchange rates and high fees.
If you are exchanging USD for Japanese yen, it is better to wait until you arrive in Japan, as you will get a more favourable exchange rate than in the US. It is also possible to exchange money at major hotels in Japan, but the rates are usually not as good as at the airport or banks.
If you are exchanging a large amount of money, using an ATM, even with foreign ATM fees, might be a better option than exchanging cash at the airport. However, it is worth noting that international ATM cards only work on select machines in Japan. If you are travelling with traveller's checks, it is recommended that you exchange them all at the airport, as they will be difficult to exchange once you leave.
Exchange rates vary from store to store at Narita International Airport, so make sure to check the rate at the store before you exchange your currency.
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Using ATMs at the airport
ATMs are available at Narita International Airport. Most of these ATMs are 'international', meaning they accept international credit and debit cards. However, it is always a good idea to check before you use one. You can find an ATM at Terminal 1 in the Arrival Lobby between the South Wing and North Wing. If you come out of the South Wing, turn left and go straight ahead to find a bank of ATMs. If you come out of the North Wing, turn right and go straight ahead. You can also find ATMs at Terminal 2, which are located between the two exits of the Arrival Lobby. Terminal 3 houses the ATMs on the second floor, near the restroom.
It is important to note that varying operating hours apply to different cards and transaction types. Some ATM services may be closed during certain holidays, such as Golden Week, Christmas, and New Year. Additionally, there may be a maximum withdrawal limit per transaction, which is typically around 30,000 to 50,000 JPY.
When using a Seven Bank ATM, simply insert your card. If the ATM detects that it is an international card, it will prompt you to select your preferred language. Then, follow the instructions on the screen. The Seven Bank ATM at the airport provides instructions above the ATM screen.
Using an ATM is one of two ways to obtain Japanese Yen at the airport. The other option is to exchange your currency at a Currency Exchange counter. However, keep in mind that exchange rates may vary from store to store, and it may be challenging to find currency exchange services once you leave the airport. Therefore, it is generally recommended to exchange enough cash at the airport to cover your immediate expenses, such as meals, transportation, and entrance fees, as Japan is largely a cash-based society.
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Exchanging traveller's cheques
Exchanging travellers cheques can be a great option when travelling, offering benefits such as favourable exchange rates and security. However, it is important to note that travellers cheques may not be accepted at all locations, and it is advisable to carry alternative payment methods as well. When it comes to exchanging travellers cheques at Narita Airport, there are a few things to keep in mind.
Firstly, it is recommended to treat travellers cheques like cash and exchange them at the airport. Exchanging them outside the airport may prove difficult, and you may be limited in the locations that accept them. At Narita Airport, various banks and currency exchange stores are available, and it is worth checking with them directly to understand if they accept travellers cheques and what their specific fees and exchange rates are.
In the past, travellers have reported mixed experiences with exchanging travellers cheques at Narita Airport. Some have suggested that banks and exchange places at the airport do accept travellers cheques, while others have mentioned that certain locations may not accept them. It is always a good idea to inquire about any associated fees and the exchange rate offered, as these can vary.
To avoid potential issues, it is recommended to use the services of the issuer of your travellers cheques. For instance, if your travellers cheques are from American Express, you may need to visit their specific location to cash them in. Additionally, using international ATM cards and credit cards can be a more widely accepted and convenient option for accessing funds while travelling in Japan.
When exchanging travellers cheques or currency at Narita Airport, it is important to compare the exchange rates offered by different providers, as these can vary. It is also advisable to exchange enough cash to cover expenses such as meals, transportation, and incidentals, as smaller shops and restaurants, especially in rural areas, may not accept card payments.
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Exchanging cash outside the airport
While it is possible to exchange cash outside the airport in Japan, it can be difficult. Banks and post offices have money exchange counters, but the process can be time-consuming and is subject to banking hours. Exchange rates vary from store to store, so it's a good idea to check the rate at the store before exchanging your currency. Some stores may not handle your currency or have the desired banknotes in stock due to procurement conditions.
International ATM cards are now accepted in select machines in Japan, but it is still largely a cash-based society, so it is recommended that you carry enough cash to cover incidentals such as meals, transportation, and entrance fees. Small shops and restaurants, especially in rural areas, may not accept credit cards.
If you are travelling with traveller's checks, it is recommended that you exchange them at the airport, as they will be difficult to exchange outside the airport.
If you are travelling from the United States, it is recommended that you wait until you arrive in Japan to exchange your money, as you will get a better exchange rate for your dollars in Japan than in the US.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can exchange USD for JPY at Narita Airport.
You can exchange currency at GPA stores within the airport, which handle 34 currencies. There are also currency exchange desks and ATMs at the airport where you can exchange USD for JPY.
Exchange rates may vary across stores at Narita Airport. It is recommended to check the rates at the store before exchanging currency.
While exchanging currency at Narita Airport is convenient, you may get a better exchange rate by withdrawing cash from an ATM at a convenience store or bank in Japan. However, keep in mind that Japan is mostly a cash-based society, so it is recommended to have some cash upon arrival.
