A couple of weeks before flying out to Tokyo, Sam was feeling pretty sorted. Flights booked. Airbnb locked in. Travel itinerary? A thing of beauty.
Then came the money part. Standing at the airport currency kiosk with a $10 additional fee and a so-so exchange rate staring back at him, he had one of those wait, should I have sorted this earlier? moments.
If you’re heading to Japan soon – or even just planning ahead – you might be wondering where to buy Japanese yen in Australia without getting stiffed by fees or dodgy rates.
The good news is you’ve got options. Some better than others. Let’s walk through what actually works – and how to get the best exchange rate for Japanese yen before your trip.
Should You Exchange Before Leaving or Once You Land?
It’s a fair question – is it better to exchange money in Australia or Japan?
Plenty of travellers hold off, thinking they’ll get a better deal once they land. But here’s the thing: Japan still leans pretty heavily on cash. And while you’ll find ATMs and kiosks, they’re not always convenient – or cheap.
Exchanging in Australia gives you a chance to compare rates, avoid international fees, and land with cash in your pocket. That’s one less thing to sort after a long flight.
So if you’re asking is it better to buy yen in Australia or Japan, the answer is: it’s usually smarter (and often cheaper) to sort it out before takeoff.
Best Place to Exchange AUD to Yen
This one’s important. Not all currency exchange providers are same.
The best place to exchange AUD to yen isn’t your nearest airport desk or the first booth you see in the CBD. Those tend to have higher margins and lower rates.
Online currency exchange platforms – like Foreign Xchange – are becoming the go-to for savvy travellers. They keep costs low by operating online, then pass those savings on to you.
You can compare rates online, place your order, and get Japanese yen delivered securely to your door.
Or, if you prefer local pick-up, just hit the query “currency exchange near me” and use their service that way.
How to Buy Yen in Australia – Simple Breakdown
Figuring out how to buy yen in Australia isn’t complicated. It just takes a bit of planning.
Here’s how it typically works with online providers like Foreign Xchange:
- Check the AUD to JPY rate and decide how much you need.
- Place your order online and lock in the rate.
- Verify your ID – standard for security.
- Choose delivery or pick-up depending on what suits you.
- Pay securely via bank transfer, BPAY, or card.
That’s it. No lining up and no awkward upsells. Just give it 3–5 business days for delivery, so you’re not cutting it too close.
What About Travel Cards or Using Your Aussie Debit Card in Japan?
Cards are becoming more widely accepted in Japan – especially in places like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto. But you’ll still need cash for small restaurants, temples, taxis, and rural spots.
Using your Aussie card might seem handy, but there’s usually a catch:
- Foreign transaction fees
- ATM withdrawal limits
- Less competitive exchange rates
Having yen on you from the get-go just makes things smoother. It’s not about carrying huge wads of cash – even a couple hundred dollars worth can help you settle in before sorting more.
Tips: How to Get the Best Bang for Your Aussie Buck
Let’s talk strategy. Here’s how to actually get the best exchange rate for Japanese yen:
- Avoid airports – unless you’re really stuck, the rates are never good.
- Use a comparison tool or visit online AUD to JPY webpages.
- Factor in delivery fees – some places offer free delivery over certain amounts.
- Order early – the more time you give yourself, the more flexible you can be with rates.
Wrapping It Up
So, back to Sam at the airport. He paid more than he needed to – not a disaster, but definitely not ideal.
You don’t have to repeat that mistake.
If you’re asking where to buy Japanese yen in Australia, your best bet is going online. Compare rates, plan ahead, and get your yen sorted before you fly.
Services like Foreign Xchange make the whole process easy and transparent. Whether you’re off for cherry blossoms, snowboarding in Hokkaido, or just some sushi-fuelled fun, having cash in hand means you can hit the ground running.
Less stress. More ramen. Sounds like a good trade. Wishing you safe travels!
