Convenience stores in Japan are not only places to buy food and drinks.
You can also use ATMs, make copies, scan documents, send FAX messages, pay utility bills, and even send or receive packages.
In this article, we will explain useful convenience store services in Japan in a simple way!
What You Will Learn…
- How to use convenience store ATMs
- How to use copy, scan, and FAX services
- How to pay utility bills
- How to send and receive packages
- Useful smartphone apps for convenience store printers
1. Convenience Stores Are Essential for Daily Life
Japan has many convenience stores such as 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, and Lawson.
Most stores are open 24 hours a day and offer many useful services.
Especially for foreigners who are new to Japan, convenience stores are like small daily life support centers.
2. How to Use Convenience Store ATMs
You can withdraw cash and check your balance using convenience store ATMs.
Many ATMs support Japan Post Bank, Mitsubishi UFJ Bank, SMBC, and many other bank cards.
Things You Can Do at ATMs
- Withdraw cash
- Check account balance
- Bank transfer ※ Supported ATMs only
- Deposit money ※ Depends on the bank
Some overseas cards may also work, but this depends on the card company and ATM type.
Important:
ATM fees may become higher at night or on holidays.
3. You Can Copy, Scan, and Send FAX
Japanese convenience stores usually have multifunction copy machines.
You can not only make copies, but also scan documents and send FAX messages.
Common Situations
- Copying residence cards
- Copying passports
- School documents
- Scanning contracts
- Sending FAX documents
For apartment contracts and bank account applications, document copies are often required.
4. Useful Apps for Convenience Store Printers
There are apps that allow you to easily print photos and PDF files.
| Convenience Store | Main App | Functions | Download |
|---|---|---|---|
| FamilyMart | Famima Network Print | Print photos and documents | iPhone Android |
| Lawson | PrintSmash | Print photos/PDFs and save scans | iPhone Android |
| 7-Eleven | 7-Eleven Multi Copy | Print photos/documents and save scans | iPhone Android |
Supplementary Explanation…
7-Eleven also offers the “netprint” service, which allows you to upload PDF files and print them in-store.
With Lawson’s “PrintSmash” app, you can send photos and PDF files directly from your smartphone to the copy machine.
FamilyMart’s “Famima Network Print” app also allows you to print documents and photos easily.
Important:
App names and services may change in the future. Please check the official websites or app stores for the latest information.
Also, be careful not to forget important documents.
5. You Can Pay Utility Bills at Convenience Stores
You can pay electricity, gas, water, internet, and phone bills at convenience stores. If you heave the payment slip.
This is especially useful for people who do not yet have a Japanese bank account or credit card.
Common Bills You Can Pay
- Electricity bills
- Gas bills
- Water bills
- Internet bills
- Mobile phone bills
- Some taxes and insurance payments
Most payment slips have deadlines. If the deadline passes, you may not be able to pay at convenience stores.
6. You Can Send and Receive Packages
Many convenience stores also support package shipping and pickup services. This is useful for online shopping, Mercari sales, and sending luggage.
Available services depend on the convenience store and location. Please check before bringing your package.
7. Convenience Stores Make Life in Japan Easier
Japanese convenience stores are much more than simple shops. They provide many useful services for daily life, especially for foreigners who are new to Japan.
By learning how to use ATMs, copy machines, utility payment services, and shipping services, life in Japan becomes much more convenient.
Need Help Living in Japan?
willow supports foreigners living in Japan with apartment searches, move-in support, utility setup, and daily life guidance.
If you have any questions about bank accounts, utility bills, residence registration, or life in Japan, feel free to contact us anytime.
Feel free to contact us on LINE for support with daily life in Japan and apartment search!
