βοΈ Heading to Japan? We've gathered some tips from the bunq community to make sure your trip is the smoothest it can be. π
Check them out below! π π
Using your card
π³ Do I need cash in Japan, or can I use my card everywhere?
Japan is surprisingly a cash based society. Card acceptance
is slowly improving but it is stronly recommended to carry cash.
Not all ATM's in Japan accept foreign cards, but if you stick to ATM's inside convenience stores you will usually be fine.
π° What currency do they use here?
The currency here is Japanese Yen. The symbol is Β₯ or ε.
π§ Which ATMβs can I use for free?
The bunq community has reported free withdrawals at these ATMs.
- Seven Bank (inside all 7-Eleven stores)
- Aeon
π΅ If I want cash, how much should I take out of an ATM?
Β₯ 20 000 should be enough for a few days.
π³ Should I choose local currency or Euros when paying?
If you're asked to choose between local currency and Euros, always choose local currency.
That way bunq does the conversion for you, and you get to take advantage of the best rates with bunq ZeroFX.
Staying connected
π± Can I roam, or should I get a local SIM?
Most EU mobile plans will charge you for roaming in Japan.
Free WiFi can easily found at hotels or coffee bars.
If you want to get a local SIM card, you can learn about your options here.
Useful things to know
πββοΈ How does tipping work?
Tipping is not expected in Japan. In fact, it can be seen as an insult, which is a big difference to some other cultures. At the very least, it will likely make the service staff uncomfortable, so you should avoid tipping.
πΊ How much does a 0.5L beer cost?
β¬3,50
π½ How much does an average meal cost?
β¬7,50
π¨ Whatβs the emergency number?
There are different numbers for the different services here.
- π Police: 110
- π Ambulance: 119
- π Fire: 119
π What type of plug do they use?
This one! Itβs the standard American plug.
π What side of the road do they drive on?
They drive on the left side of the road here.
πΊ How do I navigate my way around?
Google and Apple Maps both work well in Japan.
Otherwise, we recommend Rome2Rio as the best way to find out how to get anywhere. It even tells you the cost of each option. π
π Any other good tips?
- Sushi, sashimi, tempura... Make sure you try the
superlative Japanese food! Or, even better, take a cooking
class and learn to prepare the traditional dishes like a local!
- Make sure you get an IC card when you arrive (such as Suica or Pasmo). You can reload these with cash, to use on public transport in convenience stores, and at vending machines!
Travel Perks
π’ Visit famous attractions with 10% off
We've partnered with Tiqets to bring you discounts on attraction tickets in Japan π―π΅. To get your discount, simply follow the link here and use our coupon code BUNQTIQETS10 at checkout. That's it! π
Travel hands-free with a 20% discount on Stasher
Our partnership with Stasher will allow you to enjoy your destination to the fullest without having to worry about your luggage. Youβll be able to drop off your bags at trusted shops and hotels in Japan with a 20% discount through this link ππ».
If you've been to Japan π―π΅ share your experience! The following would be really useful for other bunqers to know:
- Which ATMs are free to use?
- What card should I use and where?
- Any other info you think may be useful.
Share your experience with us in the comments below! π π
