Yokohama

๐Ÿง

ATMs

Guidance on using ATMs for withdrawing cash, including compatibility with international cards and common locations.

Sections

1. Supported Currencies

  • Japanese Yen (JPY): ATMs in Yokohama primarily dispense Japanese yen, as it is the official currency of Japan.
  • Foreign Currency Withdrawals: Some ATMs, particularly those in international banks, airports, or tourist-heavy areas, may allow withdrawals in foreign currencies (e.g., USD, EUR). However, this is less common, and most ATMs only dispense yen.

2. ATM Locations

ATMs are widely available in Yokohama, and you can find them in the following locations:

  • Convenience Stores: 7-Eleven, Lawson, and FamilyMart convenience stores have ATMs that are foreign card-friendly.
  • Post Offices: Japan Post Bank ATMs are reliable for international cards and are located in post offices across the city.
  • Banks: Major Japanese banks like Mitsubishi UFJ, SMBC, and Mizuho have ATMs, though not all support foreign cards.
  • Shopping Centers and Train Stations: Many large shopping malls and train stations (e.g., Yokohama Station) have ATMs that accept international cards.
  • Tourist Areas: ATMs in Minato Mirai, Chinatown, and other popular tourist spots often cater to foreign visitors.

3. Language Options

Most ATMs in Yokohama offer multiple language options, making them user-friendly for non-Japanese speakers. Common language options include:

  • Japanese
  • English
  • Chinese
  • Korean
  • Portuguese (in some areas with a large Brazilian community)

When you start a transaction, you will typically be prompted to select your preferred language.

4. Supported Cards

  • International Cards: Many ATMs in Yokohama accept foreign-issued cards, especially those with Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, Cirrus, Plus, American Express, and UnionPay logos.
  • Japan Post Bank and 7-Eleven ATMs: These are the most reliable options for international cards.
  • IC Cards: Some ATMs also allow you to recharge IC cards (e.g., Suica or Pasmo) used for public transportation.

5. Fees and Exchange Rates

  • ATM Fees: Fees vary depending on the ATM and your home bank. Common fees include:
    • A local ATM usage fee (typically ยฅ100โ€“ยฅ300 per transaction).
    • A foreign transaction fee charged by your home bank.
  • Exchange Rates: The exchange rate is determined by your home bank or card issuer. ATMs in Japan do not set the exchange rate.
  • Tips to Minimize Fees:
    • Withdraw larger amounts to reduce the frequency of transactions.
    • Check with your home bank for partnerships with Japanese banks to avoid extra fees.

6. Operating Hours

  • 24/7 ATMs: ATMs in convenience stores like 7-Eleven and Lawson are available 24/7.
  • Bank ATMs: Many bank ATMs have limited hours, typically from 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Some may close earlier on weekends or holidays.
  • Post Office ATMs: Japan Post Bank ATMs usually operate from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, though some are open later.

7. Local Practices and Tips

  • Cash Culture: Japan is still a cash-heavy society, so itโ€™s a good idea to carry yen for small purchases, especially in local shops, restaurants, or markets.
  • Daily Withdrawal Limits: Be aware of your home bankโ€™s daily withdrawal limit, as well as the ATMโ€™s limit (usually ยฅ50,000โ€“ยฅ100,000 per transaction).
  • Receipts: ATMs provide receipts for transactions. Keep these for your records, especially if you need to track exchange rates or fees.
  • Security: Japan is very safe, but always exercise caution when using ATMs. Avoid withdrawing large amounts of cash late at night in isolated areas.

8. Step-by-Step Guide to Using an ATM

  1. Insert Your Card: Insert your debit or credit card into the ATM.
  2. Select Language: Choose your preferred language from the options displayed.
  3. Enter Your PIN: Input your 4- or 6-digit PIN. Note that some ATMs may only accept 4-digit PINs.
  4. Select Transaction Type: Choose "Withdrawal" or another option (e.g., "Balance Inquiry").
  5. Enter Amount: Input the amount you wish to withdraw in yen.
  6. Confirm Transaction: Review the details and confirm the transaction.
  7. Collect Cash and Receipt: Take your cash, receipt, and card before leaving.

9. Emergency Tips

  • Card Issues: If your card is not accepted, try another ATM (e.g., at a 7-Eleven or Japan Post Bank).
  • Lost Card: Contact your home bank immediately to report a lost or stolen card. Many ATMs display emergency contact numbers for major card issuers.
  • Insufficient Funds: Ensure you have enough funds in your account and that your card is authorized for international use.

10. Cultural Considerations

  • Queueing: Japanese people are very orderly, so always line up properly if thereโ€™s a queue for the ATM.
  • Quiet Transactions: Avoid loud conversations or phone calls while using the ATM, as this is considered impolite.
  • Cleanliness: Dispose of receipts in the trash bins provided near the ATM or take them with you.

11. Useful Phrases

If you encounter issues and need assistance, these phrases may help:

  • ATMใฏใฉใ“ใงใ™ใ‹๏ผŸ (ATM wa doko desu ka?) โ€“ "Where is the ATM?"
  • ใ“ใฎใ‚ซใƒผใƒ‰ใฏไฝฟใˆใพใ™ใ‹๏ผŸ (Kono kaado wa tsukaemasu ka?) โ€“ "Can I use this card?"
  • ๅŠฉใ‘ใฆใใ ใ•ใ„ (Tasukete kudasai) โ€“ "Please help me."

By following this guide, you should have no trouble accessing and using ATMs in Yokohama. Whether youโ€™re a visitor or a new resident, understanding these details will help you manage your finances efficiently while enjoying your time in the city!