[Haneda Airport (Foreign Currency → JPY)] Should Leftover Foreign Currency from Overseas Travel Be Exchanged? Where Is the Best Place to Exchange It? [April 2024]

• This article is for reference only as it is merely a translated version of the Japanese article below.
  【羽田空港】海外旅行で余った外貨は両替すべき(外貨⇒円)？両替するならどこがお得？ (Japanese version)

“Would like to know the basis for exchanging excess foreign currency.”

“Looking for recommended places with low fees for currency exchange at Haneda Airport”

These are common questions among travelers returning from overseas.

Not exchanging leftover foreign currency at the airport can lead to the hassle of having to do it later.

Firstly, before you return to Japan from abroad, it’s important to decide whether it’s better to exchange your remaining foreign currency back into JPY at the airport.

This article provides guidelines on whether to exchange foreign currency before returning to your home country and also provides recommendations for the best places to carry out currency exchange at Haneda Airport.

For those wanting to exchange currency at Haneda Airport upon their return from an overseas travel, and for those who desire to keep their exchange fees modest at the recommended currency exchange centers, this article will be a beneficial resource.

Conclusion of this article

• The factors to consider when deliberating on whether to exchange foreign currency are: the prominence of the currency, the upcoming travel plans, and the inflation rate in the country of the said currency.
• Upon returning from an overseas travel, it is advised to choose Mizuho Bank for currency exchange at Haneda Airport.
• For the exchange of foreign coins, Pocket Change is the recommended option.

Related Article

• 【〇〇 is Recommended】Comprehensive Comparison of Currency Exchange Rates at Haneda Airport (JPY ⇒ Foreign Currency)

【Before Arriving at Haneda Airport for Overseas Travel】Three Key Factors to Determine Whether to Exchange Foreign Currency Back to Yen

During overseas travel, decisions regarding currency exchange need to be made before departure from the local region or prior to arrival at Haneda Airport.

The decision to exchange foreign currency hinges on the following three key factors:

During overseas travel, it is necessary to decide whether to exchange foreign currency back into yen before departing from the foreign location or prior to arriving at Haneda Airport.

The decision to perform currency exchange depends on the following three key factors:

• Whether it is a minor currency
• Whether there are immediate plans for another overseas travel
• How is the inflation rate in the country of the currency

This article provides detailed explanation of these key factors for making a decision about currency exchange.

Whether it is a minor currency or not

One important factor when deciding on currency exchange is the type of foreing currency in hand – whether it is considered as a minor currency.

This is not specifically applicable to Haneda Airport, generally, you may find affordable exchange rates for major currencies such as the US Dollar and Euro. Unfortunately, this is usually not the case for minor currencies, wherein higher service fees often apply.

With minor currencies such as the South African Rand or the Czech Koruna, it’s not uncommon to charge service fees that are dozens of times higher than their major currency counterparts.

When in possession of a minor currency, it’s generally recommended to undertake the currency exchange at the destination’s airport or at a local exchange location before heading back home.

Please refer to the comparison table of service fees for exchange to see whether the currency you hold will incur a disproportionately high service fee.

Any currency with a service fee exceeding 4.0% should preferably be exchanged locally.

Do you plan to travel abroad again in the near future?

The second factor for making a decision about currency exchange is “Whether or not there is a plan to travel abroad again in the near future.”

Those who are planning to travel or go on a business trip abroad in the near future should take into account the fact that there will be a fee to exchange the Japanese yen back to foreign currency once it has been converted.

This is also true if the destination of the upcoming trip is different from the country visited during the last overseas trip.

For those who have plans to travel abroad again in the near future, such as for overseas trips or business trips, it is recommended to wait until reaching the next destination before exchanging the currency, rather than doing so in Japan.

The same rule applies in cases where minor currencies were not exchanged locally.

How is the inflation rate in the country of the currency?

The third factor to consider when deciding on currency exchange is “How is the inflation rate in the country issuing the currency?”

Inflation refers to the situation where the prices of goods and services increase, thereby reducing the value of the currency.

When the inflation rate in the currency’s country is high, continuing to hold onto that currency without exchanging it can lead to an ongoing decrease in its value, resulting in potential loss. In such situations, it is advisable to perform a currency exchange sooner rather than later.

Conversely, if the inflation rate is low, there is no immediate need for a currency exchange. Retaining the foreign currency can be an effective means of hedging against the risks associated with exchange rate fluctuations.

Another alternative strategy exists as well: converting funds into Japanese yen and then investing those funds into avenues such as stocks or investment trusts. This strategy allows for the management of assets at an average annual interest rate of roughly 5%.

For example, consider the inflation rates of developed nations within the OECD.

Reference: OECD Site “Forecasted Inflation Rates“

Recently, even developed nations are trending towards high inflation rates.

Therefore, when the inflation rate is higher than the rate for currency exchange fees, it is recommended to promptly proceed with the currency exchange without hesitation.

【Upon Returning】Recommended Currency Exchange Providers at Haneda Airport | Differences in Rates and Fees

The choice for the best currency exchange provider at Haneda Airport when returning from overseas travel depends on the type of currency in question.

This article presents the results of an inquiry into the fee of each currency exchange provider located in the third terminal of Haneda Airport, differentiated by individual currency.

It’s hoped this information serves as a handy reference for travelers seeking to exchange their foreign currency back into yen without incurring any unnecessary costs.

What are the currency exchange fees at Haneda Airport?

The fee structure can differ between ordinary exchange providers and those operating at Haneda Airport.

Haneda Airport currency exchange providers do not charge separate administration fees; these are instead included in the exchange rate.

This allows for decisions to be based solely on the exchange rates offered by each provider, making comparisons simpler. This simplified comparison process is a key feature of the currency exchange providers at Haneda Airport.

In the “Currency Exchange Rate Comparison” section, you have the option to compare the exchange rates from different currency exchange providers. This information could be useful for those who are interested.

Foreign Currency Exchange Upon Returning from Overseas Travel｜Haneda Airport’s “SBJ Bank” or “Japan Airport Building”

After comparing exchange rates at Haneda Airport’s foreign exchange counters, SBJ Bank consistently offered the lowest fees across many major currencies, minimizing exchange costs.

However, SBJ Bank is not available in Haneda Airport’s Terminal 3 for those returning to Japan. As such, Japan Airport Building is generally recommended in this terminal.
Note: SBJ Bank is located after security (post-departure), which limits its accessibility upon returning.

On the other hand, SBJ Bank is available in Terminal 2 both before departure and after arrival, making it a viable option for returning travelers.

Since the best exchange option varies by currency, be sure to consult the comparison table below for the most cost-effective rates!

Comparison of Exchange Fees

Exchange fees and spreads at SBJ Bank, Travelex (as of February 24, 2024), and Japan Airport Building’s own stores (as of April 28, 2024) have been assessed. The chart below compares how much each exchange provider adds to the foreign exchange rate and spread as fees. Note: “Exchange spread” is defined as the difference between the market rate (Google rate) on the day and the rate offered by the exchange provider.
Note: SBJ Bank is not available in Terminal 3 for foreign currency exchange upon return. Please be aware.

For major currencies like USD (US Dollar) and EUR (Euro), the lowest exchange fees are around 2-4%, which is considered reasonable compared to other currencies.

In contrast, minor currencies such as BRL (Brazilian Real) can incur fees of 20-50%, making them significantly more expensive to exchange.

Foreign currencies handled exclusively by Travelex tend to carry higher exchange fees, so caution is advised.

Looking at the “Difference (Savings Impact),” even for well-known currencies, there can be up to an 18% difference in fees depending on the provider selected.

Even when exchanging the same amount, fees vary by provider, so it’s recommended to choose the exchange counter offering the best rate whenever possible.

Foreign Currency Exchange Offices at Haneda Airport Terminal 3

Japan Airport Building “2F Arrival Lobby”

The Japan Airport Building located in the 2F Arrival Lobby operates 24 hours a day.

Note: Recently, there has been an increase in foreign travelers, resulting in significant congestion at this exchange office. The Japan Airport Building on the 3F Departure Lobby tends to be relatively less crowded, so using that location is also recommended.

Details

• Supported Currencies: USD, GBP, EUR, CAD, CHF, AUD, NZD, KRW, CNY, HKD, MYR, PHP, SGD, TWD, THB
• Rate Updates: Once daily

Japan Airport Building “3F Departure Lobby”

The Japan Airport Building located in the 3F Departure Lobby operates 24 hours a day.

Details

• Supported Currencies: USD, GBP, EUR, CAD, CHF, AUD, NZD, KRW, CNY, HKD, MYR, PHP, SGD, TWD, THB
• Rate Updates: Once daily

Travelex Exchange Office “2F Arrival Lobby”

The Travelex located in the 2F Arrival Lobby of Haneda Airport Terminal 3 is open from 6:30 AM to 10:30 PM.

Details

• Supported Currencies: USD, EUR, CNY, KRW, VND, INR, DKK, PLN, HUF, BRL, CZK, MXN, CHF, IDR, AUD, CAD, HKD, NZD, THB, SGD, GBP, MYR, PHP, TWD, NOK, SEK, ZAR, SAR, AED
• Rate Updates: Every hour on weekdays; once daily on weekends and public holidays
• Coupon

Pocket Change: The Recommended Solution for Exchanging Leftover Foreign Currency Coins!

At Haneda Airport, foreign exchange counters handle only foreign banknotes, not foreign coins.

For those returning from overseas travel with leftover foreign coins, Pocket Change at Haneda Airport is highly recommended.

Pocket Change is a convenient machine that allows travelers to convert unused foreign coins into electronic money or gift codes.

These machines are widely available in locations such as airports and train stations, including two locations in Haneda Airport’s Terminal 3.

They can also be found at the following locations in Haneda Airport Terminal 3.

＜Keikyu Line, Haneda Airport Terminal 3 Station, 2nd Floor＞

＜Tokyo Monorail, Haneda Airport Terminal 3 Station, 2nd Floor, outside the ticket gate next to the Ekitabi Concierge＞

The foreign coins supported by Pocket Change are as follows:

• US Dollar (USD)
• Euro (EUR)
• Chinese Yuan (CNY)
• South Korean Won (KRW)

Using Pocket Change is incredibly simple:

1. Go to a Pocket Change location.
2. Select the country of the currency and the desired exchange service.
3. Insert the foreign coins.
4. On the confirmation screen, select “Have a Coupon?” and enter the code “9992396.”
5. Confirm the exchange destination and amount, and complete the transaction.

Entering the coupon code in step 4 provides a more favorable exchange rate.

When left with foreign coins after travel, use Pocket Change to exchange them for electronic money or gift codes and put them to good use at an advantageous rate.

Foreign Currency Exchange Offices in Haneda Airport Terminal 2

Foreign Currency Exchange Offices in Haneda Airport Terminal 2

Japan Airport Building (3F Departure Lobby)

SBJ Bank (1F After Security Screening)

Coupons for Haneda Airport Terminal 2

Coupon

• SBJ Bank

Frequently Asked Questions About Foreign Currency Exchange at Haneda Airport

This guide addresses common questions about exchanging foreign currency at Haneda Airport.

For any concerns or queries, please use this as a reference.

How can foreign currency be exchanged for JPY at Haneda Airport?

To exchange foreign currency for JPY at Haneda Airport, simply inform the exchange counter staff of the desire to exchange currency. The process is straightforward and accessible to everyone.

Some exchange counters may require filling out a form with name and flight information, and a passport may be required for larger transactions.

For information on exchanging foreign currency coins, refer to the article “Foreign Currency Coin Exchange at Haneda Airport upon Return from Overseas Travel with Pocket Change.”

Is foreign currency exchange available in Terminal 2 at Haneda Airport?

Yes, foreign currency can be exchanged at Haneda Airport’s Terminal 2.

The foreign exchange providers available in Haneda Airport’s Terminal 2 are as follows:

• SBJ Bank
• Travelex
• Japan Airport Building Foreign Currency Exchange
• Pocket Change

For more details, please check Haneda Airport’s official website.

Can today’s exchange rates at Haneda Airport be found?

The day’s exchange rates at Haneda Airport are only available in person at the exchange counters.

Summary: Choosing the Most Affordable Exchange Rate and Fees for Foreign Currency Exchange at Haneda Airport

The following points provide a guide to help decide whether to exchange foreign currency before returning to Japan. An extensive comparison of Haneda Airport’s exchange rates is also provided.

The decision to exchange foreign currency should be based on these criteria:

• Whether the currency is a minor currency
• Whether there are plans for overseas travel in the near future
• The inflation rate of the currency’s country

Since foreign currency coins cannot be exchanged at the counters, it’s recommended to use Pocket Change, which can convert coins into electronic money or gift codes.

Entering the code “9992396” on the final confirmation screen offers a more favorable exchange rate.

Avoid extra costs for leftover foreign currency from travel or business trips, and make the most of it in daily life or for future travel abroad.