Japan Travel Exchange Guide 2026: When and Where to Buy Yen

Japan is transitioning to a more digital economy, but cash is still king in many places.

Online Exchanges: Use apps to monitor Yen lows and buy in installments.
IC Cards (Suica/Pasmo): Essential for transport and small shops. You can now add these to your Apple Wallet.
Avoid Airport Exchanges: Rates are generally 2-3% worse than withdrawing from a 7-Eleven (7-Bank) ATM inside Japan.