Where to exchange money in Kyoto
If you’re planning a trip to Kyoto, it will definitely be useful to know how to obtain the local currency. Additionally, you may want to be aware of the current exchange rate and the most convenient places to exchange your money.
On this page, we’ll provide you with a list of the best places to exchange currency in Kyoto. We’ll also introduce you to an alternative, Wise, which may be more cost-effective and save you the hassle of visiting a physical location.
Where to exchange money in Kyoto
If you’re planning a trip to Kyoto, it will definitely be useful to know how to obtain the local currency. Additionally, you may want to be aware of the current exchange rate and the most convenient places to exchange your money.
On this page, we’ll provide you with a list of the best places to exchange currency in Kyoto. We’ll also introduce you to an alternative, Wise, which may be more cost-effective and save you the hassle of visiting a physical location.
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Currency exchanges in Kyoto
Consider using digital alternatives like Wise when looking at currency exchanges. If you still need to have some physical cash, here are a list of currency exchanges you can find in Kyoto.
A reminder from us - There's no such thing as 0% commission or fee-free so remember to do your research and make an informed decision.
| Money Changer | Address | Contact Information |
|---|---|---|
| Travelex Kyoto Nishiguchi | Japan, 〒600-8216 Kyoto, Shimogyo Ward, Higashishiokōjichō, JR京都駅構内 2階南北自由通路沿い | +81 75-351-5613 |
| World Currency Shop Kyoto | Japan, 〒600-8008 Kyoto, Shimogyo Ward, Naginatabokochō, １０ 三菱UFJ銀行京都支店1階 | +81 75-229-8531 |
| 外貨両替所Kyoto Exchange京都駅前店（外幣兌換、MONEY EXCHANGE） | 185-1 Higashisakaichō, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, 600-8217, Japan | +81 90-2695-4711 |
| 外貨両替所Kyoto Exchange河原町店（外幣兌換、MONEY EXCHANGE） | Japan, 〒604-8042 Kyoto, Nakagyo Ward, 新京極三条 松ヶ枝町456-1 | +81 90-2695-4711 |
| 外貨両替機 SMART EXCHANGE 三井ガーデンホテル京都三条 | 80 Mikurachō, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-8106, Japan | +81 6-7668-6875 |
| Money Exchange/外币兑换/환전/外貨両替 | 780 Honryūsuichō, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, 600-8462, Japan | - |
| Smart Exchange Currency Money Exchange Machine | 31 Higashikujō Nishisannōchō, Minami Ward, 京都市南区, Kyoto 601-8003, Japan | +81 6-7668-6875 |
| Tokai Kyoto Tower before shop | Japan, 〒600-8216 Kyoto, Shimogyo Ward, Higashishiokōjichō, 718番地, Torii Bldg, 2階 | +81 75-351-9559 |
| Smart Exchange Currency Money Exchange Machine | 31 Higashishiokōji Kamadonochō, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, 600-8215, Japan | +81 6-7668-6875 |
| Smart Exchange Currency Money Exchange Machine | Japan, 〒604-8042 Kyoto, Nakagyo Ward, Nakanochō, ５６３ イシズミ新京極ビル 1F | +81 6-7668-6875 |
| Smart Exchange | 551 Gionmachi Minamigawa, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0073, Japan | +81 6-7668-6875 |
| 外貨両替機 SMART EXCHANGE ホテル日航プリンセス京都 | Japan, 〒600-8096 Kyoto, Shimogyo Ward, Takahashichō, 630番地 1F | +81 6-7668-6875 |
| 外貨両替機 SMART EXCHANGE 京都タワー | 721-1 Higashishiokōjichō, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, 600-8216, Japan | +81 6-7668-6875 |
| Currency Exchange 外币兑换 外幣兌換 외환환전 KYOTO EIZANDO 京都 栄山堂 | 2-chōme-226 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0862, Japan | - |
| 外貨両替機 SMART EXCHANGE 油そば ねこまた | 4-chōme-138 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0862, Japan | +81 6-7668-6875 |
| 外貨両替機 SMART EXCHANGE さわや旅館 本店 | ２５ Shogoin Kawaracho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 606-8397, Japan | +81 6-7668-6875 |
Notice anything wrong with our results table? Let us know - If there is a genuine mistake, we will do our best to resolve it.
Japanese yen rate today
The currency used in Kyoto, as well as the rest of Japan is Japanese yen.
However, when visiting a currency exchange shop you will notice they use currency codes. The code for Japanese yen is JPY. Keep an eye out for this if you want to compare exchange rates.
What you should know about exchanging money in Kyoto
When exchanging money in Kyoto or any foreign city, it's important to be aware how to get the best deals and avoid excessive charges and hidden fees. If you are planning on staying in Japan long-term or looking to make a larger investment you could consider opening a local bank account. Otherwise, use the tips below to help avoid getting overcharged.
1. Be wary of 'zero fee' services
Some services claiming 'no commission' often offer poor exchange rates. These may not reflect the mid-market rate, similar to what you'd see when checking the rate on Google. This can lead to higher costs for you and more profits for them.
2. Research the exchange rate
Check what the current exchange rate is so it's easier to spot a bad deal from currency exchanges.
3. Avoid exchanging money at airports or hotels
It may be highly convenient, but airports and hotels will almost always offer poor rates and high transaction fees. Avoid this where possible.
4. Use ATMs strategically
Check if your local bank has partnerships in Japan banks to avoid unwanted ATM fees. It's becoming less of a requirement, but it can be good to inform your bank before traveling too.
5. Pick local currency on ATMs and card payments
When using an ATM abroad, choose to be charged in Japanese yen for a fairer rate and fees. The same applies if you get the option on card machines.
Currency exchange bureau who?
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Other currency exchanges
Bottom line
From the list above you should have plenty of options for finding a physical currency exchange in Kyoto. If you'd like more options, try searching on a search engine like Google.
Finally, don't forget to check out Wise - The digital alternative to exchanging and spending cash abroad.
Please see terms of use and product availability for your region or visit Wise fees and pricing for the most up to date pricing and fee information.
This publication is provided for general information purposes and does not constitute legal, tax or other professional advice from Wise Payments Limited or its subsidiaries and its affiliates, and it is not intended as a substitute for obtaining advice from a financial advisor or any other professional.
We make no representations, warranties or guarantees, whether expressed or implied, that the content in the publication is accurate, complete or up to date.