In Japan the most common banking options are keeping money in a bank account or postal savings account. You will be required by your company to open a bank account so that your pay can be deposited directly; information will be given on how to do this at the training week and by your company on arrival. It is also recommended that you purchase a Hanko, or personal seal upon arrival in Japan. This item is used frequently for signing documents and should be carried with you when doing your banking or other personal business; cost for this will range from 1000-3000 yen.
As Japan is cash based society, you should carry money with you when going out. You will find ATM's in Japan, but they close early and banking exchange hours are limited during the day. Using interact is also not common, and it may be difficulty for you to locate an ATM of where you can use your Canadian card. Post offices generally have ATM's where international debit cards can be used. It is also recommended that students take a credit card with them for emergencies.
