Do Japanese ATMs have English?

Not all Japanese ATMs will be compatible with foreign issued cards, and some may not offer service in English. However, there are a few pretty extensive ATM networks you can rely on when in Japan, including cash dispensers in more than 20,000 post offices and 10,000 7-Eleven convenience stores across Japan.



Yes, the vast majority of ATMs in Japan in 2026 have comprehensive English language options, along with several other languages like Chinese, Korean, and Portuguese. For international travelers, the most reliable machines are found in 7-Eleven convenience stores (Seven Bank) and at Japan Post (JP Bank) locations, which are ubiquitous throughout the country. When you insert a foreign-issued card, the machine typically detects it and prompts you to select your preferred language immediately. These ATMs are part of the international "Plus" or "Cirrus" networks and allow for easy cash withdrawals in Yen. In 2026, even smaller regional banks and ATMs inside airports or train stations have upgraded their interfaces to be "tourist-friendly." While Japan has traditionally been a cash-heavy society, the transition to digital payments has accelerated; however, having a "fee-free" travel card and knowing how to use these English-enabled ATMs remains essential for visiting local markets, small shrines, or rural areas where cash is still king.

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Convenience store ATMs accept most foreign bank cards and have instructions provided in English and Chinese. They are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. 7-Bank or 7-Eleven ATMs are free to use in Japan. Postal ATMs also accept most foreign bank cards but are only available during post office operating hours.

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Japan ATM Withdrawal Fees Fees for withdrawing cash from ATMs in Japan are typically 1-3% of the transaction amount.

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Tipping in Japan is not expected, and attempts to leave a tip will almost certainly be turned down (a potentially awkward moment). In Japan, it's thought that by dining out or drinking at a bar, you are already paying the establishment for good service.

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When travelling in Japan, a person will likely come across many of the following banknotes: 1,000 yen – This roughly equates to an American $10 bill and is the lowest value of any Japanese banknote in circulation. This bill is typically used by office workers to pay for lunch.

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Yes, drinking water from taps in Japan is safe. For environmental reasons, try to use a refillable water bottle rather than buying bottled water in Japan. Metro train stations have public water fountains, but otherwise these can be hard to find (this is the land of vending machines after all).

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100,000 yen should be sufficient, excluding your accommodations, transportations and theme park admissions, unless you're expecting to buy an expensive souvenir. I would carry a credit card for peace of mind.

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That's certainly a comfortable budget as long as you aren't expecting to eat many fancy meals or do a lot of drinking or clubbing. You can probably save some money with strategic use of transit passes (see summaries on Japan Guide or elsewhere). You should look into the Grutto Pass.

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You can avoid a credit card foreign transaction fee by either paying cash or using a credit card that doesn't charge foreign transaction fees. Most credit cards that do not charge a foreign transaction fee note it on their website, but you can also look at the credit card's terms and conditions page.

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