Is it okay to use ATMs late in the evening in Japan or should I stick to daytime withdrawals only? I am a single woman travelling so want to be safe.
I’ve done solo travel in Japan twice and used ATMs at night many times. Tokyo, Osaka, even smaller places like Kanazawa felt very safe. I usually stuck to the 7-Bank machines at 7-Eleven because they’re well lit and always open. One time I tried a Japan Post ATM at 10:30 PM and it was already shut, so yeah convenience stores are more reliable. Just avoid going alone into quiet alleys or empty stations late, and you’ll be good.
Used an AEON Bank ATM inside an AEON Mall in Hiroshima at around 10 PM and it was totally fine. The mall was still closing but there were cleaners and staff around. One thing to note: some bank branch ATMs actually shut down for the night around 9 or 10 PM, so convenience store ATMs are more reliable if you need to withdraw late. I never felt unsafe, but I did avoid areas that felt too empty or quiet.
I stayed near Dotonbori in Osaka and often got back late after dinner. Used ATMs at the 7-Eleven near the canal without any issues, even at midnight. Japan feels much safer than most places I’ve travelled. That said, I avoided using isolated machines or banks that looked closed. ATMs inside convenience stores or train stations are your best bet after dark. And always be aware of your surroundings even though Japan is safe, better to be cautious.
I’ve been to Japan twice as a solo female traveller and honestly felt very safe even late at night. I withdrew cash at a 7-Eleven ATM in Shinjuku around 11:30 PM and there were people around, plenty of light, and no hassle. Stick to ATMs inside 7-Eleven, Lawson, or FamilyMart stores they’re open 24 hours and usually well lit with CCTV. I wouldn’t use a standalone ATM on a dark side street though, just out of common sense.
Try to use Lawson Bank ATMs located inside 24-hour convenience stores. Theyre accessible any time, day or night.