【Convenient Coin Exchange】An Overview of Pocket Change’s Fees and Locations

• This article is for reference only as it is merely a translated version of the Japanese article below.
  【小銭の外貨両替が便利】ポケットチェンジの手数料や設置場所などを解説 (Japanese version)

Pocket Change is an exchange terminal that allows users to convert leftover foreign currency into electronic money and other digital formats.

Users can exchange foreign coins and banknotes for convenient options like Amazon gift cards.

Please Note

• Pocket Change does not allow conversion to cash.

This article provides a thorough explanation of the installation locations, supported currencies, and other details concerning Pocket Change.

Additionally, you will learn about valuable coupon codes, currency exchange destinations, and usage tips, so please read on.

The information is based on data as of June 2023.

Valuable Coupon Code for Pocket Change

Firstly, an advantageous coupon code will be introduced.

Valuable Coupon Code

• Coupon Code：9992396

Entering the coupon code on the confirmation screen may increase the amount received by about 2% (Note: This percentage is not fixed and may change).

This coupon code is available for use by anyone.

Pocket Change for Foreign Coin and Banknote Exchange

Pocket Change is a dedicated terminal for exchanging foreign coins and other currencies.

Upon inserting foreign currency, users can convert it to options like Suica or Amazon gift cards.

The convenience of being able to charge high-demand electronic money is increasing the service’s popularity.

Foreign Currency Cannot Be Used Within Japan

There are hardly any uses for foreign currency in Japan.

While money reveals its value through use, it becomes wasted treasure if it cannot be used.

Especially for foreign coins, managing and storing them is a significant challenge.

To avoid management stress, it is advisable to exchange unused foreign currency for PASMO, Suica, or gift cards.

Installation Locations for Pocket Change

Pocket Change terminals are installed in a variety of locations across Japan, including airports, travel agencies, and commercial facilities.

Apart from major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya, terminals are also available from Hokkaido to Kyushu.

The nearest installation locations and their operating hours can be checked on the webpage, convenient for those returning from travel.

As the number of terminals continues to grow, it is recommended to check nearby locations before use.

Maintenance updates are communicated via the official Twitter account “Pocket Change Terminal Maintenance Information“.

Supported Currencies by Pocket Change

Pocket Change supports ten currencies, though the range for coins is limited.

Unsupported Minor Banknotes

The service accommodates currently circulating banknotes.

However, it does not support some minor banknotes and small denominations.

For details, please refer to the list of supported banknotes.

Unreadable Currency Return or Donation

　Currencies that cannot be read due to dirt or distortion, and unsupported coins can either be returned or donated.

Currency Exchange Destinations with Pocket Change

Depending on the country, foreign currency can be exchanged for various electronic money options and gift cards in Japan.

Electronic Money for Transport

• Suica
• PASMO
• Kitaca
• TOICA
• manaca
• ICOCA
• nimoca
• SUGOCA

Electronic Money for Other Uses

• Rakuten Edy
• WAON
• nanaco

Gift Cards

• Amazon Gift Cards
• JCB PreMo Digital

Note

• Pocket Change does not allow conversion to cash.

For all exchange destinations except JCB PreMo Digital, exchanges can start from just 1 JPY, with the maximum exchange amount set between 10,000 and 30,000 JPY per transaction.

When charging to electronic money, please be mindful of the preset charge limits.

Exchanges to gift cards are facilitated by entering or scanning the code printed on the receipt.

For detailed information about the exchange destinations, please review the numerous options available depending on the country and intended use. Country-specific exchange options can also be verified on this page.

How to Use Pocket Change

Using Pocket Change is a simple four-step process:

1. Select the Exchange Destination

Choose your desired exchange service based on the country/region.

2. Insert Foreign Currency

Multiple coins and banknotes of various currencies can be simultaneously inserted at the money insertion screen.

For any unsupported or unreadable currencies, please select either to return or donate them.

Set the exchange service and amount, then confirm the exchange rate.

3. Enter Coupon Code

Press the button to enter the coupon code on the confirmation screen.

Valuable Coupon Code

• Coupon Code：9992396

Entering the coupon code can increase the amount received by approximately 2% (note that this percentage is not fixed and may change).

This coupon code is available for use by everyone. Do not forget to enter it.

4. Complete the Exchange

The method of usage varies depending on the exchange service.

For touch-type electronic money

• Simply tap your card or smartphone.

If you have selected a gift or coupon ticket

1. A receipt with the gift or coupon code will be printed.
2. Follow the instructions on the receipt to proceed with each exchange service.

This concludes the usage instructions for Pocket Change.

Simply operate the touchscreen, insert coins and banknotes, and the process is complete. No additional input on the terminal is required.

As personal information such as email addresses or phone numbers is not needed, you can use the service securely and safely.

Exchange Rates and Fees at Pocket Change

Pocket Change does not charge a transaction fee.

However, exchange rates are determined based on the currency and denomination of the money inserted, the selected exchange destination service, and the prevailing market exchange rates.

Please confirm the rates on the terminal screen before starting the service (before inserting money) and before final confirmation.

Please note that exchange rates also apply to exchanges within the same currency, such as from Chinese Yuan to Chinese Yuan electronic money.

Recommended Users for Pocket Change

There are two main groups of people who would benefit from using Pocket Change:

1. Those with leftover foreign currency from travel

It is recommended for both Japanese and foreigners who have leftover foreign currency from travel abroad.

According to Sony Bank’s survey on the attitudes of overseas travelers towards foreign currency, about 60% of respondents keep their foreign currency after returning home.

The average amount kept per person is approximately 18,000 JPY.

This service is ideal for those who want to utilize their dormant foreign currency at home or who wish to exchange multiple currencies at once.

Reference: Sony Bank

2. Those who want to avoid waiting in line

Pocket Change is installed in commercial facilities nationwide, allowing users to exchange currency without waiting in crowded lines.

Currency exchange booths and ATMs at airports often have long wait times and the processes can be time-consuming.

However, Pocket Change terminals are widely available and easy to operate, making them a preferred choice for those who wish to avoid queues or prefer not to engage in face-to-face interactions.

Summary of This Article

This article has explained the services provided by Pocket Change. Here’s a summary:

• Pocket Change is a dedicated terminal for exchanging foreign coins and other currencies.
• Installation locations include airports, travel agencies, and commercial facilities across Japan.
• The terminal supports coins in four currencies and banknotes in six currencies.
• Currency can be exchanged for electronic money and gift cards, among other options.
• Exchanges can be made from as little as 1 JPY.
• The maximum exchange amount ranges from 10,000 to 30,000 JPY.
• Operations are conducted via a touchscreen interface.
• Exchange rates vary depending on the currency and the selected exchange service.
• The service is recommended for those with leftover foreign currency or those who prefer to avoid waiting in line.

“Overseas Money Transfer Simulator” Identifies the Cheapest Provider in Just 5 Seconds

Did you know that despite sending the same amount, you could potentially lose over 10,000 JPY per transaction due to varying fees and transfer conditions set by different overseas money transfer providers?

However, by using the “Money Saver Overseas Money Transfer Simulator,” you can compare over dozens of companies in as little as 5 seconds, a task that would otherwise be difficult.

The simulator delivers a ranked list of the most cost-effective overseas money transfer providers that best suit your needs.

The first use is free right now. Take advantage of this opportunity.