Currency Exchange in Osaka and Kyoto in Japan: real experience from chats
Short answer
Exchange currency at city-based offices like Ninja Exchange or Namba Currency Exchange, as they generally offer better rates than airport kiosks. Use only newer USD banknotes, as pre-2006 bills are frequently rejected or accepted at reduced rates.
From real experience
In Japan, exchange rates: 1 USD can buy approximately 151-154 JPY in currency exchange offices in cities like Osaka.
Rates of 166 JPY per USD likely represent the selling price of USD. Older USD banknotes (pre-2006) may not be accepted for exchange. Exchange rates can be more favorable in city locations (e.g., Namba) than at airports.
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For currency exchange in Japan: 1. Okinawa: Use Bank of Okinawa exchangers, often found in FamilyMart, which accept USD.
2. Tokyo: Exchange rates vary; check arrival terminals (e.g., 153.73 JPY at international arrivals). 3. Asakusa/Kamakura/Kyoto: Look for reputable exchangers like 'Ninja exchanger' during business hours. 4. Payment methods: While UnionPay is not universally accepted (e.g., 7-Eleven), it works at Lawson, hotels, and taxis. Be prepared for 'cash only' establishments. Consider carrying sufficient cash.
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The best currency exchange rates in Fukuoka are generally found in the city rather than at the airport.
For example, 'WORLD CURRENCY SHOP' is mentioned as a good option. Specific rates observed in Kyoto were 158.10 at World Currency Shop and 158.20 at Kyoto Money Exchange, while the airport rate was 156.26. Older USD bills (e.g., from 2006) may be accepted at a reduced rate or not at all by some exchange offices; it's advisable to use newer bills if possible.
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Currency exchange in Japanese airports is less favorable than in the city.
Namba (Osaka) and Asakusa (Tokyo) are known for competitive exchange rates. Always carry USD banknotes of the newest series (large heads, security strips), as older notes are frequently rejected by Japanese banks and currency exchange offices.
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For the best currency exchange rates in Japan, it is advisable to seek out dedicated exchange offices rather than relying solely on airport kiosks or bank ATMs.
One traveler reported finding a rate of 158 Yen per USD at an exchange office in Osaka, compared to 153 Yen at Kansai Airport.
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Currency exchange rates at Kansai International Airport (KIX) are often competitive or equal to city rates.
Look for exchange counters immediately after customs. Recommended specific spots in Kyoto: Kyoto Exchange, World Currency Shop; in Osaka: Namba Currency Exchange or Now Currency Exchange.
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Travelers seeking currency exchange in Osaka are advised to look for exchange offices.
Specific locations or optimal rates are not detailed, but it's implied that dedicated exchange offices offer better rates than airport exchange counters.
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Exchanging Russian Rubles to Japanese Yen in Japan is difficult.
Options are limited, primarily in Osaka, with poor exchange rates and only accepting cash. There are very few exchange offices, with only three known locations across Tokyo and Osaka.
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For cash currency exchange in Osaka, Namba Currency Exchange (located in the Namba district) offers highly competitive rates, often superior to standard automatic exchange machines and city banks.
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For currency exchange in Tokyo, Ninja Exchange in Shinjuku is recommended as the most advantageous option, offering favorable rates and no commission.
The exchange rate at Osaka airport upon arrival was also noted as being good.