Best Credit or Prepaid Card for Japan

codo

Hi

My husband is travelling to Japan in a couple of months. He has a Halifax Clarity Credit Card which we use when we are away and was going to use it there.

One of his colleagues has told him he would be better using WeSwap and the other person travelling with him will be using Revolut. Having looked online I'm not sure which would be best and if he needs to apply for another card. Can anyone advise are Revolut and WeSwap getting better exchange rates?

He will generally be using the card for travel & purchases but the option to withdraw cash if needed would be good. The Halifax Clarity Card would be paid off in full once statement is received.

Thanks in advance.

eDicky

He would not be better off using WeSwap, it's cumbersome and involves conversion in advance, then back again to retrieve leftover funds, costing a margin each time.

Revolut is a useful account, rates may be fractionally better than that of MasterCard, except weekends, but not enough to make any practical difference, and customer service can be patchy.

Starling Bank is simplicity and the same MasterCard rates as Clarity, I recommend to use both of these - never rely on only one.

To obtain cash, only ATMs in convenience stores and perhaps post office accept foreign cards in general.

Migster

Just be aware that card usage/acceptance in Japan is not as prevalent as the UK, so he will need to have cash on him also.

worried_jim

Starling all day everyday.

codo

Thanks for all your replies. Look like the best option will be to take the Halifax Clarity and get a Starling card as a back up.

Paul_Fletcher

I returned from Japan in April 2019 and found credit/debit cards were generally accepted. One important tip, though, for getting cash is go to a 7-11 Convenience Store. They are everywhere. You don't have to look hard. There will be one near your hotel.
The ATM in these stores will accept your credit card. Always works - 100%

codo

Thanks Paul, he has checked and there is a 7-11 very near his hotel.