Translation guide
A place to exchange foreign currency. In Japan, this is most commonly done at airports, banks, or specialized exchange counters.
外貨両替所はどこですか？
Where is the bureau de change?
A physical location where you can exchange money.
Standard term for a currency exchange office or counter. Often seen at airports and major tourist areas.
空港の外貨両替所でドルを円に替えた。
I exchanged dollars for yen at the airport bureau de change.
General term for a money exchange counter. Can refer to both foreign and domestic currency exchange, but context usually makes it clear.
駅の近くに両替所はありますか？
Is there a bureau de change near the station?
Specifically a counter for foreign currency exchange, often found in banks or hotels.
ホテルの外貨両替カウンターは24時間利用できます。
The hotel's bureau de change counter is available 24 hours.
Loanword from English, sometimes used in signs like 'Money Change'. Not a standard Japanese word, but understood in tourist contexts.
あそこに「Money Change」の看板がある。
There's a 'Money Change' sign over there.
The service of exchanging currency, often within a larger institution.
Refers to the foreign currency exchange service provided by banks, hotels, etc.
この銀行では外貨両替サービスを行っています。
This bank offers a bureau de change service.
General exchange service, can include foreign currency.
両替サービスはどこで受けられますか？
Where can I get currency exchange service?
Many travelers use international ATMs at 7-Eleven or post offices rather than exchange counters. You can ask: 外貨両替所はありますか？ (Is there a bureau de change?) or 国際キャッシュカードが使えるATMはありますか？ (Is there an ATM that accepts international cash cards?).