Currency exchange scams are rare in Japan compared to many destinations, but unlicensed street changers offering unusually good rates and unstaffed kiosks with no visible licensing are the main ones to avoid.
Unlicensed street changers
These occasionally appear in dense tourist areas and are usually identifiable by rates that look noticeably better than anywhere else nearby. A rate that seems too good to be true almost always is.
Unmarked or unlicensed kiosks
Licensed counters post their rates clearly and operate inside recognized locations, such as banks, post offices, airports, or established retail chains. A standalone kiosk with no visible licensing or rate signage is worth avoiding.
Tip: If a counter will not show you the rate before you commit to the exchange, that alone is a reason to walk away and use a different option.
Sticking to reliable options
Banks, post offices, airport counters, and established unattended machine networks cover almost every practical need, and all of them post transparent, verifiable rates.
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