2006-07-27 12:56:38 · 6 answers · asked by Teaching in Japan 1 in Travel ➔ Asia Pacific ➔ Japan
I just realized I may have misread your question. If you are in Japan and you want US cash, then the best way is to go to your local bank or post office. If you are travelling from the US to Japan, then read below. Sorry.
On my trips to Japan (many many to visit my fiance in Osaka) the best way and the best rate is to use my ATM card at international ATM's. You can get money this way at the airports and post offices as well as at most of the branches of Citibank which can be either very difficult to find or very convenient. Going to your local bank may or may not work. Some branches of B of A and Wellsfargo do it, but only certain branches, so you should call ahead of time. As for bringing yen back, I bank at Wellsfargo and they will exchange the money pretty close to the current rate for no fee, but I have an account, so that's why it's a good way. I have only done that twice though. I generally either give my excess money to my fiance before I come home or just keep it for the next trip. No need to lose any money on exchange rates if I am going back in a month or three. The nice thing about using the ATM is that I only get charged a $3 ATM fee, no other fees and it's the most up to date conversion rate. Also, I try to stay at hotels that take credit cards (like Tokyu Inn, which is all over Japan) so I don't use so much cash on my hotel room and other things like food and transportation, which is very expensive in Japan, unless you are brave enough to drive, but you will need an IDL for that. I hope you have a nice trip.
2006-07-27 15:00:49 · answer #1 · answered by spudric13 7 · 2⤊ 2⤋
It's always best to exchange currency in the country you're visiting and at either a local bank or at a bank where you have an account for the best rate.
2006-07-27 13:03:57 · answer #2 · answered by missy_sweet_cheeks 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If your coming into the US, you should just use a check card or credit card were applicable. They will give you the best rates. If not, the airport should have an exchange place that will give you some half way decent rates. This should work in Japan as well.
2006-07-27 13:00:37 · answer #3 · answered by tsx000 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I have found that banks give the best rates. Don't forget to exchange some money before your trip. I also recommend you carry Traveler's Checks just in case something happens.
2006-07-27 13:27:39 · answer #4 · answered by Adam 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If you are going abroad from the USA, the best is the ATM. Banks usually provide the best rates. Some don't even charge fees. HSBC is one such bank.
2006-07-27 13:16:21 · answer #5 · answered by lazysellers 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
We go to the bank that is local, and they give whatever the rate is for that day.
2006-07-27 13:01:42 · answer #6 · answered by mischa 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋