Banks in Japan are open from 9:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., Monday to Friday. Long lines are common especially around lunchtime. Take a number from the machine, but also check with an attendant if your are in the right place if the bank is busy. Many banks are spread over several floors, so you want to at least get in the right area before you start to line up.
One of the biggest complaints visitors have when visiting Tokyo, is the lack of ATMs which accept foreign cards. Technology is very advanced in Japan and Tokyo, but somehow the banking industry seems to have gotten behind. The situation has gotten better slightly, but it is still not easy as finding an ATM that accepts your cards. Many places also, such as small restaurants, hotels and bars don't accept credit cards, so be sure to have plenty of cash in your pocket.
Even though there are ATMs that have Visa signs everywhere, usually they only accept domestic credit cards. Fortunately a couple of foreign banks now readily accept all major cards, however they are sometimes not so easily found. Also, many ATMs actually close in the early evening, or are closed on holidays.
After being taken over by a foreign institution Shinsei Bank is going out of its way to improve services for its customers. They are even open until 7 pm at some branches.
Their ATMs accept most major cards and are open 24 hours/365 days a year.
Citibank also have good service for foreigners, although they don't have so many ATMs around town, making it difficult if you are out of cash. Here is a full list of Citibank ATMs.
Post office ATMs also accept foreign cards, however they shut fairly early in the evening, although they are trialling a 24 hour service.
Most banks have a money exchange service for changing money and travellers cheques. People have reported problems exchanging Korean and Taiwanese currency - US dollars are the most widely accepted currency. Post Offices also exchange money.
If you are luck enough to earn some yen while you are in Japan, you may want to send some money back your home country. Most banks can telegraphic transfers, but they usually charge a premium for the service.
Post Offices offer one of the most economical methods for sending money. With their International Remittance Service it is possible to send money to someone living abroad or a bank account.
Lloyds also have an efficient service for sending money abroad. Their basic charge is 2000 yen and the money usually reaches your account the next day.
