In modern Japan, ATMs located in convenience stores have become an essential part of our financial infrastructure. Beyond their 24/7 convenience, each company’s ATM offers distinct features.
This article provides a simple explanation of the types and features of ATMs installed in major convenience stores—7-Eleven, Lawson, Family Mart, and Ministop—and compiles links to their official websites. Use this as a reference to find the best convenience store ATM for your main bank and usage needs.
Convenience Store ATM Quick Comparison Chart
First, let’s compare the overview of each convenience store ATM in a chart.
| Convenience Store | ATM Name | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| 7-Eleven | Seven Bank ATM | No. 1 in number of installations. High compatibility with foreign-issued cards. |
| Lawson | Lawson Bank ATM | Installed in Lawson stores nationwide. Supports charging QR code payment services at the ATM. |
| Family Mart | E-net ATM / Japan Post Bank ATM | Numerous partner banks (E-net). Convenient for Japan Post Bank users. |
| Ministop | AEON Bank ATM | Fee benefits for AEON Bank accounts. Also integrates with WAON. |
7-Eleven: Seven Bank ATM
With over 27,000 units installed nationwide, the Seven Bank ATM is the most widespread convenience store ATM in Japan. It is used by many people due to its high level of convenience and functionality.
Features
- Overwhelming Number of Installations: Available in various locations, including 7-Eleven stores, train stations, and commercial facilities nationwide.
- Strong Support for Foreign-Issued Cards: Supports withdrawals in Japanese Yen using cash cards and credit cards issued overseas, making it popular among international tourists. It is compatible with major international brands like VISA, Mastercard, JCB, and American Express.
- Excellent Usability: Features an easy-to-understand touchscreen interface that is intuitive even for first-time users. Multilingual support provides peace of mind for those not fluent in Japanese.
- Diverse Transactions: In addition to cash deposits/withdrawals, transfers, and balance inquiries, it also supports services from partner companies (like borrowing/repayment for various loan cards).
Official Website
For more details on fees, partner financial institutions, and operating instructions, please check the official website.
- Official Website: Seven Bank ATM
Lawson: Lawson Bank ATM
The Lawson Bank ATM, recognizable by its green casing, is installed in Lawson stores nationwide. As a rule, it is also available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Features
- Available at Lawson Stores Nationwide: With over 13,000 units installed, it has the second-largest network after Seven Bank.
- Charging QR Code Payment Services: A key feature is its support for cash charging of some QR code payment services.
- Wide Range of Partner Financial Institutions: Partners with many financial institutions, including city banks, regional banks, credit unions, and online banks.
- Information on the ATM Screen: The transaction screen may display announcements and campaign information from partner financial institutions.
Official Website
For details on available financial institutions and services, you can check the Lawson Bank official website.
- Official Website: Lawson Bank ATM
Family Mart: E-net ATM / Japan Post Bank ATM
Family Mart stores are primarily equipped with “E-net ATMs,” but some locations also have “Japan Post Bank ATMs.” It’s important to note that the installed ATM can vary by store.
Features (E-net ATM)
- Abundant Partner Financial Institutions: E-net’s major strength is its partnership with numerous regional banks and credit unions. You may find that your local bank’s card can be used fee-free during certain hours.
- Jointly Operated Network: Because it is jointly operated by multiple financial institutions, it provides a stable service.
Features (Japan Post Bank ATM)
- Convenient for Japan Post Bank Users: If you have a Japan Post Bank cash card, you can use it fee-free depending on the day and time. Transfers between Japan Post Bank accounts are also possible.
- Installation is Expanding: The installation of Japan Post Bank ATMs in Family Mart stores is gradually expanding.
Official Websites
We recommend checking the official websites beforehand to see which ATM is installed at your local Family Mart and which ATM your bank partners with.
- Official Website: E-net ATM
- Official Website: Japan Post Bank ATM
Ministop: AEON Bank ATM
The ATMs installed in Ministop are “AEON Bank ATMs” from the AEON Group. They are also widely found in other AEON Group stores like AEON and MaxValu.
Features
- High Affinity with AEON Bank Accounts: If you have an AEON Bank cash card, deposit and withdrawal fees are free 24/7, 365 days a year.
- Integration with WAON: You can charge your “WAON” e-money with cash or points. This is extremely convenient for frequent users of AEON Group services.
- Partner Financial Institutions Also Supported: In addition to AEON Bank, cards from partner institutions like Mizuho Bank, MUFG Bank, and Japan Post Bank can also be used (standard fees may apply).
Official Website
For the latest information on fees and partner financial institutions, please check the AEON Bank official website.
- Official Website: AEON Bank ATM
Summary
Convenience store ATMs are now a vital presence, complementing bank branches and their ATMs. Each ATM has different strengths, such as the number of installations, partner banks, and unique services.
- For Versatility and International Support: Seven Bank ATM
- To Try Unique Features like QR Charging: Lawson Bank ATM
- For Regional Bank or Japan Post Bank Users: Family Mart ATMs
- For AEON Bank or WAON Users: AEON Bank ATM
Use this article as a reference to wisely utilize the convenience store ATM that best suits your lifestyle and financial institution. Please note that fees and services are subject to change, so always check the latest information on the respective official websites before use.