Hiroshima

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ATMs and Cash Withdrawals

Sections

1. Overview of ATMs in Hiroshima

Hiroshima, like the rest of Japan, is a cash-friendly city where many small businesses, restaurants, and shops still prefer cash over credit cards. ATMs are widely available in Hiroshima, especially in tourist areas, shopping districts, and transportation hubs. However, not all ATMs in Japan accept foreign cards, so itโ€™s important to know where to go and what to expect.

2. Locating ATMs in Hiroshima

  • Convenience Stores: The most reliable and accessible ATMs for foreign visitors are located in convenience stores such as:

    • 7-Eleven (Seven Bank ATMs)
    • FamilyMart (E-net ATMs)
    • Lawson (Lawson Bank ATMs) These ATMs are available 24/7 and are scattered throughout Hiroshima, including near major tourist attractions like the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Miyajima ferry terminal.

  • Post Offices: Japan Post Bank ATMs are another excellent option for foreign cards. They are located in post offices across the city and are generally open during business hours (9:00 AM to 5:00 PM). Some larger post offices may have ATMs accessible outside these hours.

  • Train Stations and Airports: ATMs that accept foreign cards can also be found at Hiroshima Station, Hiroshima Airport, and other major transportation hubs.

  • Shopping Malls and Department Stores: Large shopping centers like Hiroshima PARCO or AEON Mall often have ATMs that accept international cards.

3. Fees and Currency Exchange Rates

  • ATM Fees:

    • Japanese ATMs may charge a small withdrawal fee, typically ranging from ยฅ100 to ยฅ300 per transaction, depending on the ATM operator and the time of day (some ATMs charge higher fees during late-night hours).
    • Your home bank may also charge an additional fee for international withdrawals, so check with your bank before traveling.

  • Currency Exchange Rates:

    • ATMs in Japan generally offer competitive exchange rates compared to currency exchange counters. However, the exact rate will depend on your card issuer.
    • Be aware of any dynamic currency conversion (DCC) options that may appear on the ATM screen. Always choose to be charged in Japanese yen (JPY) rather than your home currency to avoid unfavorable exchange rates.

4. Steps for Withdrawing Cash

  1. Locate an ATM that accepts foreign cards (e.g., Seven Bank, Japan Post Bank, or E-net ATMs).
  2. Insert your card into the ATM.
  3. Select your preferred language (English is available on most ATMs).
  4. Enter your PIN.
  5. Choose the type of transaction (e.g., "Withdrawal").
  6. Select the account type (e.g., "Savings" or "Checking").
  7. Enter the amount you wish to withdraw (note that ATMs typically dispense cash in ยฅ1,000 increments).
  8. Confirm the transaction and collect your cash, card, and receipt.

5. Types of Cards Accepted

  • Accepted Cards: Most ATMs in Hiroshima that cater to foreign visitors accept major international cards, including:
    • Visa
    • Mastercard
    • American Express
    • JCB
    • UnionPay
    • Cirrus/Maestro
  • Important Note: Some ATMs may not accept debit cards, so ensure your card is enabled for international use and linked to a major network like Visa or Mastercard.

6. Operating Hours

  • Convenience Store ATMs: Available 24/7.
  • Post Office ATMs: Typically open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with some exceptions for larger branches.
  • Bank ATMs: Generally operate from 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM, but hours may vary by location.
  • Tourist Area ATMs: ATMs in high-traffic areas like Hiroshima Station or near the Peace Memorial Park often have extended hours.

7. Cultural and Safety Tips

  • Cash Handling:

    • Japan is a very safe country, and carrying cash is common. However, itโ€™s still wise to avoid withdrawing large amounts at once and to store your cash securely.
    • Use a wallet or money pouch to organize your yen, as Japanese bills and coins are used frequently (coins come in denominations of ยฅ1, ยฅ5, ยฅ10, ยฅ50, ยฅ100, and ยฅ500).

  • Politeness at ATMs:

    • If thereโ€™s a line, wait patiently and donโ€™t linger at the ATM after completing your transaction.
    • Be discreet when entering your PIN and handling cash.

  • Receipts: Keep your ATM receipts for reference, especially if you need to track your spending or report any issues to your bank.

  • Scams and Fraud: ATM fraud is extremely rare in Japan, but itโ€™s still a good idea to use ATMs in well-lit, secure locations like convenience stores or banks.

8. Specific Issues with Foreign Cards

  • PIN Length: Japanese ATMs typically require a 4-digit PIN. If your PIN is longer, contact your bank to change it before traveling.
  • Daily Withdrawal Limits: Check with your home bank regarding daily withdrawal limits for international transactions.
  • Card Rejections: If your card is rejected, try another ATM or contact your bank to ensure your card is authorized for use in Japan.

9. Availability in Tourist Areas

Hiroshima is a popular tourist destination, and ATMs are readily available in key areas such as:

  • Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park: Several convenience stores nearby have ATMs.
  • Miyajima Island: While ATMs are available on the island, itโ€™s a good idea to withdraw cash before heading there, as options may be limited.
  • Hiroshima Station: A major transportation hub with multiple ATMs that accept foreign cards.

10. Final Tips

  • Always carry some cash, as smaller establishments may not accept credit cards.
  • Plan your withdrawals to avoid running out of cash during weekends or holidays when some ATMs may have limited hours.
  • If you need assistance, staff at convenience stores or post offices are usually helpful and can guide you to the nearest ATM.

By following this guide, youโ€™ll be well-prepared to access cash and navigate Hiroshimaโ€™s ATM system with ease. Enjoy your time in this beautiful city!