Your Existing Card vs Cash Exchange
Which money exchange is better for your Japan trip?
Y
Your Existing Card
3.5
Zero preparation needed — use your current debit or credit card.
Feature comparison
Your Existing Card
MethodYour existing card
Exchange RateBank rate (2-5% markup)
Fees1-3% foreign transaction
Setup RequiredNone
ATM Cash WithdrawalMost ATMs
Best ForNo preparation needed
Cash Exchange
MethodCounter
Exchange Rate3-8% markup
FeesCommission varies
Setup RequiredNone (walk in)
ATM Cash WithdrawalN/A
Best ForNeed cash immediately
| Feature | Your Existing Card | Cash Exchange |
|---|---|---|
| Method | Your existing card | Counter |
| Exchange Rate | Bank rate (2-5% markup) | 3-8% markup |
| Fees | 1-3% foreign transaction | Commission varies |
| Setup Required | None | None (walk in) |
| ATM Cash Withdrawal | Most ATMs | N/A |
| Best For | No preparation needed | Need cash immediately |
Pros & cons
Your Existing Card
- ✓Zero preparation needed
- ✓Works immediately on arrival
- ✓No new apps to learn
- ✗Foreign transaction fees 1-3% on every purchase
- ✗ATM fees from both banks
- ✗Worst exchange rate of all options
Cash Exchange
- ✓Immediate cash no waiting
- ✓No technology needed
- ✓Available at all airports
- ✗Worst exchange rates 3-8% markup
- ✗Airport rates worse than city
- ✗Carrying large cash amounts risky
Our verdict
Your Existing Card edges ahead with 3.5/5. Both are solid choices — pick based on your priorities.