How the WISE Card Makes Spending in Japan Easier (Plus How to Withdraw Money at Local ATMs)
Japan is gradually shifting toward cashless payments, but cash is still king in many places—especially smaller shops, local restaurants, and rural areas. For travelers, that means having a reliable, cost-effective way to withdraw Japanese Yen is essential. Enter the WISE card (formerly known as TransferWise)—a modern travel companion that helps you spend smarter abroad.
Why Use a WISE Card in Japan?
The WISE card offers a refreshing alternative to traditional debit and credit cards, which often come with hefty foreign transaction fees and less-than-ideal exchange rates. With WISE, you get mid-market rates, low conversion fees, and a seamless way to access Japanese yen from local ATMs.
Whether you’re withdrawing cash from a convenience store or paying with your phone, here’s why WISE is a game-changer in Japan:
1. Competitive Exchange Rates and Low Fees
WISE uses the real mid-market exchange rate. It’s transparent and doesn’t come with hidden markups. Best of all, there’s no subscription fee, so you only pay when you use it.
2. Convenient ATM Withdrawals
You can use your WISE card at ATMs found in:
7-Eleven stores
FamilyMart
Japan Post Bank
7-Eleven ATMs are especially reliable—they're widely available and support international cards like WISE.
3. No Japanese Bank Account Needed
You don’t need to open a local account. Just load your WISE account with your home currency, convert it to JPY within the app, and you’re ready to go.
4. Contactless and Mobile Payment Support
The WISE card works with Apple Pay and Google Pay, so you can tap to pay anywhere that accepts IC cards like Suica or Pasmo—useful for trains, vending machines, and convenience stores.
I even use it for my Uniqlo purchase and pay it from the self-service checkout kiosk.
5. Full Control via the WISE App
Track your spending, monitor exchange rates, or freeze your card if it’s lost—all from the intuitive WISE mobile app.
How to Withdraw Cash from a Japanese ATM Using a WISE Card
Withdrawing money in Japan using WISE is simple. Here’s a quick step-by-step guide:
1. Find a 7-Eleven ATM
7-Eleven stores are everywhere—from Tokyo to the countryside—and their ATMs are foreign-card friendly.
2. Insert Your WISE Card
Choose your preferred language after the card is inserted.
3. Select “Withdraw”
Straight-forward, just select “Withdrawal”.
4. Be Aware of ATM Fees
ATM fees can vary:
10,000 yen withdrawal = ¥110
20,000 yen or more = ¥220
(Subject to changes)
WISE's blog mentioned “cash withdrawals at 7-Eleven ATMs are fee-free as long as you also have a fee-free account”. However, I noticed charges possibly due to withdrawing from an airport ATM. Next time, I’ll test a store-based ATM and update again.
5. Choose Account Type
I usually select “Saving”, though some may choose “Checking.”
6. Enter Your 4-Digit PIN
WISE card only have 4-digit pin.
7. Enter Withdrawal Amount
Note: Most machines have a max withdrawal cap of around ¥100,000 per transaction.
8. Confirm Exchange Rate and Fees
Some cards will ask you to confirm the exchange rate and fee.
WISE usually bypasses this step.
9. Collect Your Cash and Receipt
Don’t forget to take and check the correct amount.
10. Remove Your Card
Don’t forget this part—easy to miss when you’re jet-lagged!
Things to Keep in Mind
WISE gives you two free ATM withdrawals per month, up to a certain limit. Exceeding that may incur a small fee.
7-Eleven ATMs run 24/7, making them super convenient.
Always check the ATM screen for extra fees before confirming the withdrawal.
Make sure to allocate funds to your JPY balance in the WISE app ahead of time. If not, WISE will automatically convert from your default currency at the best rate.
Final Thoughts
On my last trip to Japan, I relied on my WISE card almost exclusively for cash withdrawals and some local transactions. Compared to my credit card, it saved me a decent amount in fees—and offered peace of mind with transparent rates.
If you’re headed to Japan and want an efficient, modern way to manage your travel money, WISE is a smart choice. You’ll get great rates, flexibility, and the ability to access cash almost anywhere.
Before you fly, check the WISE app for the latest on ATM limits, currency balances, and fee updates.
Happy travels—and may your yen go further!
Disclaimer : (Not Financial Advice)
The information provided in this blog post is for educational and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended as financial, investment, or legal advice. Always do your own research and consult with a licensed financial advisor before making any financial decisions.
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