Travelog Card Japan: Easy Yen Exchange & ATM Withdrawals

Travelog Card Japan

Your Guide to Yen Exchange & Seven-Eleven ATM Withdrawals

One of the common dilemmas when planning a trip to Japan is managing your Japanese Yen. In the past, travelers often had to visit a bank before their trip to exchange currency. But with the convenient Travelog Card, those days are long gone!

I've put together a complete guide, from how to exchange Yen using your Travelog Card to withdrawing cash from ATMs once you're in Japan.

1. How to Exchange Yen with Your Travelog Card

Exchanging Yen is incredibly simple through the Hana Money app. First, you'll need to link your preferred bank account to the app, similar to linking a payment method to any digital wallet.

Then, keep an eye on the exchange rates. When you feel the Yen rate is favorable, you can exchange the desired amount directly within the app. The Yen you exchange can be used for card payments in Japan or withdrawn as cash from local ATMs.

I'm a huge fan of the Travelog Card precisely because it allows me to exchange currency directly through the app without worrying about hefty exchange fees. It saves me a trip to the bank before my travels, and I can gradually exchange smaller amounts whenever the rates look good – it's incredibly convenient!

2. Should You Exchange All Your Yen Before Your Trip?

So, should you convert all your travel expenses into Yen before heading to Japan?

The short answer is: not necessarily!

If you link your bank account to the Hana Money app and enable real-time withdrawals, you can top up your foreign currency balance as needed, even if your existing Yen balance is low. This means you can get the exact amount you need at the real-time exchange rate when you're making a payment or withdrawal on the spot.

I personally keep my bank account linked and pre-exchange some Yen when the rate is good. Then, for any additional funds I need, I simply top up my balance on the fly. It's a system that works perfectly for me!

3. How to Withdraw Yen from Seven-Eleven ATMs

When you need cash in Japan, the Seven-Eleven ATMs (often called "Seven Bank ATMs") are your best friend. They support English (and several other languages), so using them for the first time is surprisingly straightforward.

Here's the withdrawal sequence:

You can check out a reference video for ATM withdrawal steps below:

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DcWM-1tzBzp/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsi=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==​

Your PIN is usually 4 digits. However, some older machines might prompt for a 6-digit PIN. If that happens, simply enter your 4-digit PIN followed by "00".

ATM Yen Withdrawal Pro Tip ▼

Once you've selected your desired amount, there's one crucial detail to remember on the final screen.

Make sure to select the option on the right: "Do not convert now" (or similar phrasing).

If you choose the left button, which usually says something like "Convert now and proceed...", the ATM screen might indicate a 4% currency conversion fee. By selecting the right button, you'll receive your Yen directly without any extra charges. This is a vital step, so don't forget it!

4. Travelog Card Yen Withdrawal Limits

Lastly, let's cover the withdrawal limits.

The Travelog Card allows for free withdrawals up to $10,000 USD per month. Be aware that withdrawals exceeding this limit will incur additional fees.

While card payments are becoming more common in Japan, you'll still encounter situations where cash is essential, especially in smaller restaurants, traditional markets, or for certain temple entry fees. That said, there's no need to carry all your travel funds in physical cash.

I personally use my Travelog Card for most purchases and only withdraw about 20,000 to 30,000 Yen for emergencies. However, I'd recommend having at least 10,000 Yen on hand for any unexpected situations. It’s always better to be prepared!

And there you have it – your comprehensive guide to Yen exchange and ATM withdrawals in Japan using your Travelog Card. Enjoy a seamless and stress-free trip!