How to Get Japanese Yen in the US With Low Fees
Table of Contents
.jpg){kind=small}
Author: Frank Day
We only list companies that are trustworthy and appropriately licensed. Our aim is to give you a comprehensive view of the regulated money transfer marketplace.
DisclosureMoneyTransfers aims to help users find the best money transfer provider for their needs. To support our free service, we may earn a commission from some of the providers listed in our search results. The commission may also impact the ordering of the providers shown. Our reviews are independent from this and are based on our editorial policy, research and testing of dozens of remittance providers on the market.
Table of Contents
If you're traveling to Japan and need to buy Japanese yen, remember one rule: avoid high airport fees. In this guide, we will help you find out the best, cheapest way to get Japanese yen from the USA.
Best places to get Japanese yen in the USA in 2026
Before exchanging your dollars for Japanese yen, you should check the different ways you can buy them to make sure you get the best deal. Multi-currency accounts are the cheapest and most convenient way to get Japanese yen and spend them overseas.
Best way to save on fees - Wise and Revolut multi-currency accounts
Best alternative - Prepaid travel cards
Most overrated - Local banks and credit unions
Best for emergencies - Banks and ATMs abroad
Our handy, modern currency app lets you:
Instantly convert 25,000+ currency pairs
Compare live transfer deals
Get reviews & insights
Our app is free for mobiles and tablets, with no intrusive ads or in-app purchases.
Open a multi-currency account
Multi-currency accounts are the best, cheapest way to buy Japanese yen with dollars. With multi-currency accounts, you can convert your money into Japanese yen and keep it in your account for future use while traveling.
Wise and Revolut are way ahead of their nearest online multi-currency competitors. You can download their mobile apps and open an account in minutes. When you have an account, you can easily exchange dollars for Japanese yen and store them in your account, ready to spend.
Wise
Wise is the best provider of multi-currency accounts, and you can use it in the US to get Japanese yen very easily.
To open an account with Wise, all you have to do is download their app and follow the instructions. You can order a Wise card for a one-time fee of $9. You can use this card to spend money in other countries without paying fees for exchanging currency, as long as you have enough Japanese yen in your account.
You can also use a digital card on your phone with Google Wallet or Apple Pay for online and contactless payments.
If you’ve got enough Japanese yen in your account, you’ll also be allowed to withdraw up to 30,000 yen ($200) from ATMs without a charge. A fee of 70 yen ($1.50) will apply per transaction if you exceed this amount, or if you withdraw cash more than twice a month.
Please share your experience with Wise
Would you recommend Wise?
Russell Pinkes
I can’t send money to Belize
Katsiaryna
Once trying to open sire, was automatically blocked for no reason
Alan
Unable to transfer money from Philippines to any other country. Philippines Wise does not work
Anonymous
Retiro de dinero en transferencia
Uwe
great rates and service - unfortunately for some countries not yet available
Martin Premprakash Anantharaman
On the first transfer to a hospital in NY they were already screaming that this was a sure scam and the same on my next transfer to a fried in Nigeria. They then summarily closed my account TERMINATING THE RUNNING TRANSFER TO NIGERIA, claiming that, hold on, I was being scammed🤦♂️ Sure, I could have appealed but immediately found that I would have had to provide so much intrusive detail that I desisted.
Martin Premprakash Anantharaman
Setting up is a bit unwieldy if you want to make a one-off transfer, as you have to create an account with complete identification - but it works and the process as well as charges are great.
Anonymous
My brother wants to send me money from India to Nigeria but he's finding it difficult how can he do it
Mohammed
WARNING : Wise was Great until main office decided to ruin WISE By letting the TW India office control handling Random verifications and do what ever they want by insane replies and no replies etc. If you want to waste your time and enjoy a journey into Black Hole of Insane then go ahead and try WISE !
Anonymous
Can't receive money from php to idr so far
sudheir
They don't allow transfer to Brokerage firms from India
Anonymous
Good app to transfer money
Anonymous
I didn't find Cuba on your list.
Anonymous
cuba not work
Nina
I made a transfer to a Canadian company 1.5 months ago, and the funds have not yet been received. After multiple emails, Wise insists that the money was paid out. However, I have received an official statement from the recipient’s bank confirming that the money has not been received. Wise's complaints department sent me a final letter stating that, according to their records, the funds were paid out. Additionally, Wise states the following in their Customer Agreement regarding their responsibility for losses: Quote from Wise's Terms: "Our Customer Agreement also explains our responsibility for losses in Section 29: 29.1 Unforeseeable loss or damage. We are not responsible for any loss or damage that is not foreseeable. Loss or damage is foreseeable if either it is obvious that it will happen or if, at the time the contract was made, both we and you knew it might happen, for example, if you discussed it with us during your sign-up process. 29.9 We are not liable for things which are outside of our control. We (and our affiliates) cannot be liable for our inability to deliver or delay because of things which are outside our control." Despite these terms, Wise has not been able to resolve this issue, and the money has still not been delivered as promised. I find it irresponsible that Wise does not conduct any investigations into the matter. The Canadian bank associated with Wise is unable to provide any information, as everything goes through Wise. Wise must be capable of tracking the funds and providing precise details about where exactly the money is, who received it, and to which bank account it was deposited. I would advise everyone to be cautious when transferring large sums of money with Wise. They are not capable of executing a secure money transfer!
Shengjie Yin
good and perfect
Tristan
Beware: Wise's Unethical Policies and Unresponsive Support Cost My Business I am sharing my experience with Wise to warn fellow business owners about the serious risks and unacceptable practices you may encounter if you choose to use their services. My business, is a legally registered travel agency in the UK, and I relied on Wise to manage payments for my photography and cultural tours, primarily in South America. Things took a turn for the worse when Wise froze my account and accused my business of violating their Acceptable Use Policy, citing my once-a-year humanitarian trip to Cuba. Despite explaining multiple times that: No Cuba-related transactions were ever processed through Wise (I use a separate European bank for this purpose), My tours comply with the “Support for Cuban People” category authorized by OFAC, designed to help Cuban citizens outside state control, Wise completely ignored the facts. Their customer support team responded with automated messages, refused to engage in any meaningful dialogue, and even lied, claiming they didn't monitor my emails—despite clear evidence to the contrary. After days of chasing them and providing thorough documentation, they chose to close my account without justification. The Consequences: Wise left my business in chaos, disrupting essential transactions and client arrangements. Their rigid policies align with sanctions widely condemned by the global community, and in doing so, they indirectly support humanitarian suffering. The Bottom Line: Wise is unreliable, unresponsive, and unethical. If your business has any complexity or humanitarian focus, beware: Wise will shut you down without notice or explanation, and customer support will abandon you. Their actions have serious real-world consequences. Avoid Wise if you value your business stability or require ethical and accountable financial services. There are far better alternatives out there that won’t put your livelihood at risk Beware: Wise's Unethical Policies and Unresponsive Support Cost My Business
Anonymous
I have been a customer for a few years. Yes I love the instant deposits as I make around $1K. However as many non US entities Wise uses a bank out of New York. Therefore the TRANSFER and DEPOSIT from an account transfer can take 4 to 6 days. What this means is that you will not able to make another ACH transfer during this time. This is frustrating if you have to make a follow up transfer in a few days. All in all don't plan to make more than 4 transfer in a month because it may not fo through, Not sure if other transfer companies operate the same way but I am about to find out as I will try Revolute. Bottom linw will require you to use ANOTHER payment method like credit card or some other method. Understand this: YOU MAY HAVE THE MONEY IN YOUR ACCOUNT but they WILL NOT TRY TO VERIFY IT WITHIN THE THE PERIOD IT WILL TAKE THEM TO DEPOSIT IT IN YOUR ACCOUNT. To add insult to injury I called in and the agent siad that they can see that they got paid but the computer takes time to update/reconcille I guess! It is a slow system!
Anonymous
There is a lot of advice on RECEIVING INHERITANCE in the UK from overseas but nothing on the rules for SENDING money gifts to grandchildren living OVERSEAS and the rules on Inheritance Tax in that case.
Anonymous
The service is decent, nothing more. I have had security issues that are not quickly resolved. Call center personnel are average. The app is not, in general, user friendly. You should definitely do research on a variety of service providers before making a choice. Do not take the reviews at face value. I chose Wise based on positive reviews but now regret not doing more research on other companies.
Anonymous
So far so good
Daniel
I checked to see if Wise even sends money to Colombia. Colombia is not even in their list of countries. Why is it even advertising for Colombia?
Bill Sanders
I have used Wise for several years. They once rejected a large transfer because it was to a coal company. Apparently, they are a woke company! But they refused to tell me why. More recently, they required verification of my identity using a smart phone. I am 69 and never owned a cell phone because I don't need one. But they forced me to buy one, which I did last week. Getting the phone updates ate up all my data, so i got 1 GB more. I took 12 different pics of my passport and another 12 of my face for them. They rejected them - and are holding up my transfer. Now my phone ate up that gig of data and I must buy another gig (thru Tracfone) just to use the phone. What a hassle. This is not a photo studio! They know who i am already. Note: This comment has been edited by the MoneyTransfers.com team to align with our content guidelines.
Ziggy Meilus
It used to be always instant, now it may come right away or it can take 5 even 7 days to get the money.
Anonymous
i've heard of people having issues with accounts being locked/restricted, but i think that was mostly for business accounts, maybe they were locked for good reason. for me, i've had no issue with my account though i've only used it for small transfers and not very often, over the past 5+ years
Revolut
Revolut also provides a great multi-currency account. You can store 28 different currencies in a Revolut account. Just exchange the yen and you can access them.
Revolut offers a free card. You can use it at ATMs abroad without paying extra fees for foreign transactions. Just make sure you have enough Japanese yen in your account. Card payments made abroad incur a small fee. You can add your card to Apple Pay or Google Wallet if you like to make contactless payments with your phone.
Note: Exchanging with Revolut is more expensive during the weekend, when a 1% markup is added to the mid-market exchange rate on transactions. It’s cheaper to exchange money on a weekday, when no markup is added to the mid-market rate.
Please share your experience with Revolut
Would you recommend Revolut?
Anonymous
Family purpose
Anonymous
Our family and in-laws use revolut for when they come to the UK, when we're in Germany, France or Portugal to pay each other back for holiday expenses for our families such as shopping, meals, petrol, gifts etc. It's great.
Anonymous
not competitive
Anonymous
Yes i recommend
Malek
Does not support transactions for people resident in algeria
Gigani
Excellent service
Eric
Does not support transactions for people resident in Indonesia
Anonymous
Excellent
František
I have had Revolut for a long time and I can recommend, the best app for me Note: Translated from "Revolut už mám dlouho a můžu doporučit za mě nejlepší aplikace"
Anonymous
I haven't been able to set up. it won't resend the codes
Note: Interested in Wise and Revolut?
Check out our Wise versus Revolut comparison to find out which is better for your next trip to Japan and for your everyday multi-currency payments.
Get a travel money card
Travel money cards aren’t as cheap as multi-currency accounts, but they offer better rates than banks and airport exchanges. Cards like Currensea link directly to your local bank account and deduct payments as you make them. Your card then converts the money and often adds a markup on the foreign exchange fees whenever you spend.
The more cost-effective travel cards are prepaid. Many global companies, such as Mastercard, provide prepaid currency cards. By using these cards, you only exchange money once and pay a lower markup because of your pre-payment.
Keep in mind that you’ll need to plan ahead to get the most of this deal, as any future exchanges will have a new markup added.
You can buy Japanese yen in the US using travel money cards, but the exchange rates are usually higher than multi-currency accounts. You’ll get less yen for your money than if you used a multi-currency account with Revolut or Wise.
Mid-market Rate:1 USD = 161.555012 JPY Mid-market rate at: 14:43 UTC
Use local banks and credit unions
Local banks and credit unions will be able to exchange money, but it’s a more expensive option. You’d be better off using a multi-currency account.
This is one of the more traditional methods of exchanging money, and is still very popular. You can exchange Japanese yen at your bank, but multi-currency accounts and travel cards have better rates.
Use a foreign currency exchange
A foreign currency exchange is another traditional option for getting Japanese yen, but they’re not the cheapest. Foreign currency exchanges generally cost more than banks, so you’ll probably find a better deal exchanging in your local branch.
Tip: Check the exchange rate before you buy
A good way to make sure you’re getting a good deal is to check the rate and market conditions before ordering foreign currency. If the current exchange rate is much lower than the one being offered by your bank, you’ll probably find cheaper options elsewhere.
Places to avoid when exchanging for Japanese yen
Believe it or not, some of the most expensive places to exchange money are still some of the most popular. The traditional places commonly associated with exchanging currency, like airports and exchange depots in tourist spots, are the most expensive options available.
Here are some of the places you should avoid when exchanging your dollars for Japanese yen.
Currency Exchange at the Airport
Planning in advance can save you a lot of money when it comes to exchanging Japanese yen. Last minute attempts to buy yen at airport exchange offices are very expensive.
Condé Nast Traveler says airport currency exchanges charge fees of $5 to $15. The exchange rate is usually 7% to 15% higher than the mid-market rate.
Beware! Free currency exchanges at the airport aren't free at all
Even if airports don't charge 'fees' for their currency exchanges, they add huge markups to the exchange rates. They're usually between 7% and 15% higher than the standard bank rate.
Foreign currency exchanges in tourist-dense areas
Foreign currency exchange businesses target tourists and charge higher fees in popular areas of Japan. It’s always best to plan ahead and buy the yen you need before you travel to make sure you’re not caught out by high fees in last-minute emergencies.
Visiting banks abroad
Visiting banks abroad is another expensive way to buy yen. It’s best to only do this in an emergency, as the fees and foreign exchange prices will be high. Some major banks may also charge for helping non-account holders.
If you don't have enough money, using your own bank card is usually cheaper than exchanging at a foreign bank. However, it's still not cost-effective. The best way to save money when buying yen is to prepare your accounts in advance so you know you have everything you need.
Getting Japanese yen in the US - be prepared or face the fees
If you’re going to Japan, you’ll need to purchase yen for holiday spending. To save money on your exchange, open a multi-currency account and exchange yen before your flight. With your card, you can spend money like a local, save on fees and exchange rates, and have peace of mind knowing everything's sorted.
Explore more topics
FAQs
What’s the best place to get Japanese yen before traveling?
If you’re planning a holiday to Japan, the best place to get Japanese yen is through a multi-currency bank account. Wise and Revolut are good for multi-currency accounts. If you have enough yen, card payments in Japan are free.
What’s the best place to get Japanese yen after traveling?
If you’ve already traveled and you don’t have a multi-currency account or a travel money card, it may be best to stick with your usual debit card. Check your high street bank’s foreign transaction fees to make sure you’re not going to be charged too much in fees. Avoid exchanging at the airport - the USD/JPY exchange rates will be very high.
Should I buy yen when I get to the airport?
No, exchanging currency at the airport is costly. If you've already traveled, it's probably cheaper to use your bank debit card instead.
Despite this, it’s a good idea to plan ahead and open a multi-currency account before you travel, to save on any additional costs when you arrive.
What else do I need to travel to Japan?
Before you travel to Japan, make sure you’ve thought about the following:
Check your medical insurance policy covers you overseas
Make sure your passport is valid and in-date
Some prescription medication, like Adderall, is prohibited in Japan. If you’re traveling with prescription medication, check it’s legal in Japan before you travel
Can you get Japanese yen at the US Post Office?
The US Post Office can transfer money internationally for you, but it doesn’t sell foreign currency. You’ll need to get yen somewhere else, like a neobank with a multi-currency account, or a travel money card.
Can you get Japanese yen from US banks?
You can exchange yen at US banks like Wells Fargo, JPMorgan, Chase, the Bank of America, and Citibank. However, they may charge a fee and a higher exchange rate than the mid-market rate. To get a better deal, you should open a multi-currency account, or purchase a travel money card.
How far in advance should I buy Japanese yen for my trip?
It's generally recommended to purchase yen 1-2 months before your trip if you’re using a multi-currency account like Wise or Revolut. This gives time for the cards to arrive. If you’re using a prepaid travel card, 1-2 weeks in advance is sufficient.
What is the best way to pay when I'm in Japan?
Using a multi-currency debit card like the ones issued by Wise or Revolut to pay directly in yen is the most cost effective way to pay. You can also withdraw yen from an ATM using these cards. Avoid paying in US dollars if possible - you'll get a poor exchange rate, and avoid credit cards - they usually come with high fees.
How much cash in yen should I take?
Take enough for the first few days before getting more from an ATM. Many places accept cards now, so cash is less necessary. It’s a good idea to take no more than a quarter of your weekly budget in cash.
For your holiday budget, work out your budget in dollars, then use our currency converter to find out how many Japanese yen you’ll need.
Should I keep receipts for currency exchanges in Japan?
Yes, keep any receipts for currency exchanges and withdrawals. This helps you reconcile your accounts later.
Are there fees for using my card in Japan?
With a multi-currency account, debit transactions in Japanese yen are usually free. There may be a small fee for ATM withdrawals after a certain number. For example, Wise allows you to withdraw up to 30,000 yen ($200) from ATMs per month without a charge. Check your card's fee schedule before you travel.
How do I check the exchange rate I'm getting for USD/JPY?
Apps like Wise and Revolut show the live exchange rate. For other exchanges, ask the teller for the rate and compare it to online sources. Avoid places that won't disclose the rate.
What's the best way to exchange any leftover Japanese yen?
You can exchange back to US dollars and deposit them to your US account if you have a multi-currency card. Otherwise, keep the currency as a souvenir or for your next trip. Exchanging yen back to dollars will often lose you more money in exchange rates, so it’s a good idea to check what you’re likely to need before you travel so you don’t exchange too much.
Xe exchange rates
Use the tabs to switch between different amounts.
Live Exchange Rates
Best Currency Brokers in 2026
Before diving deeper into the exchange brokers, here’s a quick overview of who will benefit from using a currency broker.
How to get British Pounds in the USA
Before you buy your pounds, you should make sure you’re getting the best deal. To save money, consider using cheaper ways to exchange currencies, such as opening a multi-currency account.
How to get Mexican pesos in the USA
Before you transfer your dollars into pesos, you need to understand the different ways you can exchange to make sure you get the best deal. The easiest and cheapest way to purchase and use pesos is by opening a multi-currency account.
Contributors
.jpg)
Please share your experience with …