Nagoya

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ATMs

Details on using ATMs in Nagoya for withdrawing Japanese yen, including access for international cards.

Sections

1. Overview of ATMs in Nagoya

Nagoya, as one of Japan's major cities, has a well-developed network of ATMs that are accessible in banks, convenience stores, shopping centers, train stations, and airports. However, not all ATMs in Japan are foreigner-friendly, so itโ€™s important to know where to go and what to expect.

2. Currencies Dispensed and Accepted

  • Currencies Dispensed: ATMs in Nagoya primarily dispense Japanese Yen (JPY). Foreign currencies are not dispensed.
  • Currencies Accepted: Most ATMs in Nagoya accept international cards for withdrawing Japanese Yen. Supported card networks typically include:
    • Visa
    • Mastercard
    • American Express
    • UnionPay
    • Cirrus
    • Maestro
    • JCB
    • Discover
    However, not all ATMs accept all card types, so itโ€™s best to look for specific logos on the ATM.

3. Where to Find Foreigner-Friendly ATMs

Not all ATMs in Japan are equipped to handle international cards. Here are the most reliable options for foreign visitors and immigrants in Nagoya:

Convenience Stores

  • 7-Eleven (Seven Bank ATMs):
    • Widely regarded as the most foreigner-friendly ATMs in Japan.
    • Available 24/7 in 7-Eleven convenience stores.
    • Supports multiple languages (English, Chinese, Korean, etc.).
    • Accepts most international cards.
  • FamilyMart and Lawson (E.net ATMs):
    • Found in FamilyMart and Lawson convenience stores.
    • Supports international cards, but fewer than 7-Eleven ATMs.
    • Multilingual interface available.

Post Offices (Japan Post ATMs)

  • Japan Post ATMs are another excellent option for international users.
  • Located in post offices and some train stations.
  • Multilingual support and compatibility with most international cards.
  • Operating hours may vary, and not all are 24/7.

Airport and Train Stations

  • ATMs at Chubu Centrair International Airport and major train stations like Nagoya Station are designed to accommodate international travelers.
  • These ATMs often have multilingual interfaces and accept a wide range of cards.

Banks

  • Prestia SMBC Trust Bank and Shinsei Bank ATMs are foreigner-friendly and support international cards.
  • However, bank ATMs may have limited operating hours compared to convenience store ATMs.

4. Associated Costs and Fees

When using ATMs in Nagoya, be aware of the following costs:

ATM Fees

  • Japanese ATMs may charge a small fee for withdrawals, especially during non-business hours (e.g., late at night or on weekends).
  • Fees typically range from ยฅ110 to ยฅ220 per transaction.

Foreign Transaction Fees

  • Your home bank may charge additional fees for international withdrawals, such as:
    • A foreign transaction fee (usually 1-3% of the withdrawal amount).
    • A flat withdrawal fee (varies by bank).

Currency Conversion Rates

  • The exchange rate is determined by your card issuer (Visa, Mastercard, etc.) and may include a small markup.

Tips to Minimize Fees:

  • Withdraw larger amounts at once to reduce the frequency of fees.
  • Check with your home bank for partnerships with Japanese banks that may waive fees.

5. How to Operate an ATM in Nagoya

Using an ATM in Nagoya is straightforward, especially at foreigner-friendly machines. Hereโ€™s a step-by-step guide:

  1. Insert Your Card:

    • Insert your card into the ATM. Some machines may require you to swipe or tap instead.

  2. Select Language:

    • Most ATMs will prompt you to choose a language. Options typically include English, Chinese, Korean, and Japanese.

  3. Enter Your PIN:

    • Input your 4- or 6-digit PIN. Note that some ATMs may only accept 4-digit PINs, so check with your bank beforehand.

  4. Choose Transaction Type:

    • Select "Withdrawal" (or "Cash Withdrawal").

  5. Select Account Type:

    • Choose the account type linked to your card (e.g., "Savings" or "Checking").

  6. Enter Amount:

    • Input the amount you wish to withdraw in Japanese Yen. Be aware of daily withdrawal limits set by your home bank.

  7. Confirm Transaction:

    • Review the details and confirm the transaction.

  8. Collect Cash and Receipt:

    • Take your cash, card, and receipt. Ensure you donโ€™t leave anything behind.

6. Cultural and Local Considerations

  • Privacy: Japanese people value privacy, so stand a respectful distance behind others when waiting in line for an ATM.
  • Cash Culture: Japan is still a largely cash-based society, so itโ€™s common to carry and use cash for daily transactions. Always have some cash on hand, as smaller shops and restaurants may not accept credit cards.
  • Operating Hours: While convenience store ATMs are available 24/7, bank ATMs often have limited hours (e.g., 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM). Plan accordingly.
  • Cleanliness: ATMs in Japan are well-maintained and clean. Avoid eating or drinking near the machines.
  • Receipts: Many ATMs will offer a receipt. Itโ€™s polite to take it with you or dispose of it in the nearby trash bin.

7. Emergency Tips

  • Lost Card: If your card is retained by the ATM, contact the ATM operator immediately. The contact number is usually displayed on the machine.
  • ATM Malfunction: If the ATM malfunctions, do not leave the machine. Call the operator for assistance.
  • Daily Limits: Be aware of your home bankโ€™s daily withdrawal limit to avoid declined transactions.

8. Useful Phrases in Japanese

If you encounter a Japanese-only ATM or need assistance, these phrases may help:

  • ATMใฏใฉใ“ใงใ™ใ‹๏ผŸ (ATM wa doko desu ka?) โ€“ "Where is the ATM?"
  • ่‹ฑ่ชžใฎใƒกใƒ‹ใƒฅใƒผใฏใ‚ใ‚Šใพใ™ใ‹๏ผŸ (Eigo no menyuu wa arimasu ka?) โ€“ "Is there an English menu?"
  • ใ‚ซใƒผใƒ‰ใŒไฝฟใˆใพใ›ใ‚“ใ€‚ (Kaado ga tsukaemasen.) โ€“ "My card doesnโ€™t work."

9. Final Tips

  • Always carry a backup payment method (e.g., a second card or cash).
  • Check your bankโ€™s policies on international withdrawals before traveling.
  • Use ATMs in well-lit, secure locations, especially at night.

By following this guide, you should have no trouble accessing cash and navigating the ATM system in Nagoya. Enjoy your time in this vibrant city!