Cash & ATMs in Japan (using a foreign card)

Japan is more cashless than it used to be, but cash still matters — and not every ATM takes a foreign card. The good news: two nationwide networks reliably do. Here’s where to withdraw yen and what to check, based on the banks’ own pages and JNTO.

Carry some cash

“In Japan, there are still many places where cash is required… many places, especially in rural areas, may still only accept cash, even hotels.” JNTO’s advice: “To be on the safe side, however, always have some cash on hand.” (JNTO)

The two reliable ATM networks for foreign cards

Seven Bank (inside 7-Eleven)

• “Over 28,000 ATMs at 7-Eleven stores all across Japan,” where “you can withdraw Japanese Yen day or night.”
• Accepts Visa, PLUS, Mastercard, Maestro, Cirrus, UnionPay, American Express, JCB, Discover, Diners Club.
• Screen language selectable after inserting the card, including English (10 languages).

Japan Post Bank (post offices & FamilyMart)

• Accepts Visa, PLUS, Mastercard, Maestro, Cirrus, JCB, China UnionPay, Discover for withdrawals.
• Works at “all the Japan Post Bank ATMs in Japan,” including post offices and FamilyMart stores.
• Hours vary: post-office ATMs run roughly 7am–11pm on weekdays (shorter on Sundays/holidays); FamilyMart machines run nearly 24 hours. Balance inquiry isn’t available with a foreign card.

What to check at the machine

Before inserting your card, look for a sticker matching your card’s network (the marks listed above). If it’s there, you’re almost certainly fine — though Seven Bank notes that “some cards with these marks may not be accepted,” depending on your issuing bank. Don’t assume a random bank ATM will work; stick to Seven Bank or Japan Post Bank.

Frequently asked questions

Withdrawal limits, fees and hours vary by ATM and by your card issuer, and can change — confirm on the machine or the bank’s page before relying on a figure. This guide covers the two most tourist-friendly networks; other banks’ ATMs may have different foreign-card policies.