Expat Japan Guide

Sending Money from Japan Overseas: Cheapest Options (2025)

Sending money overseas from Japan is something most foreigners do regularly — and most of them are overpaying on fees and exchange rates. The best services for international transfers from Japan can save you significant money each year. Here’s how to compare your options. Quick Comparison Service Fee (¥100,000 transfer) Speed Best For Wise ~¥400–600 1–2 days Most people, most currencies SBI Remit ¥0–500 1–3 days Philippines, China, specific corridors Japan Post ¥2,500 3–5 days Simple, accessible Megabank SWIFT ¥2,000–4,000 + rate spread 3–5 days Avoid Revolut Low fees, limits apply 1–2 days Multi-currency users Wise — Best for Most People Wise (formerly TransferWise) consistently offers the best exchange rates and transparent fees for international transfers. ...

May 25, 2026 · 4 min · Expat Japan Team
Expat Japan Guide

Wise vs Revolut in Japan: Which Is Better for Foreigners? (2025)

What you'll learn in this guide Wise vs Revolut: side-by-side fee and rate comparison for Japan Which is better for sending large amounts internationally Which is better for daily spending in Japan ATM withdrawal comparison in Japan Key limitations of both apps in the Japanese market The verdict: which app to prioritize and when to use both Quick Answer Use Wise for international money transfers (sending money home or receiving foreign income) — it offers the true mid-market rate with transparent fees. Use Revolut for daily multi-currency spending and travel within Asia. For most foreigners in Japan, you want both, but Wise should be your primary tool for moving money internationally. ...

May 25, 2026 · 6 min · Expat Japan Team
Expat Japan Guide

Wise in Japan: Complete Guide for Foreigners (2026)

Quick Answer Wise is the best option for sending money internationally from Japan — you get the real mid-market exchange rate with transparent fees, compared to banks that add 2–4% hidden markups. Most transfers complete within 1–2 business days. Sending money home from Japan through a regular bank is one of those things you do once, watch the fees and exchange rate markups eat ¥10,000 out of a ¥300,000 transfer, and immediately start looking for a better way. There is a better way. ...

May 24, 2026 · 4 min · Expat Japan Team