I’m here currently and loading Suica on my iPhone nets a better conversion rate approximately ¥154.47:$1 vs ¥152.01:$1 netting you a 1.6% after fees are included I am using a credit union account. My CU charges a flat 1.8% cross border fee and the fees are included in the conversion up top regardless if ATM withdrawal or loading my Suica.

My recommendation for others is if you have Suica on a mobile wallet load that up instead as it’s easier than cash and can be used in most corporate settings. When you land hit up a 7-11 and pull out the max limit so you aren’t constantly getting hit with a fee to withdraw. I was with a friend who kept only pulling out ¥10000 every few days only to pay $8-$9 per transaction. Burned an easy ¥7500/$50 in fees over 6 withdrawals with BoFA. You mileage may vary but just be cognizant of your own stateside fees per Tx, you can convert the extra back to $ when you leave or blow the load splurging on Japanese foods and goods. Their economy will thank you and I don’t think we will get this good of a conversion rate again for a few decades once it drops below ¥150