No upfront fee ATM in Japan
There are a few threads on ATM's in Japan, but I thought my experience last week would be useful for those looking to use low-cost ATMs in Japan.
When I arrived at Narita I used a 7 Bank ATM just after leaving customs. I believe they have these ATMS in both terminals. Using my Visa debit card I had no problem pulling out 50,000 yen. There was no upfront fee from 7 Bank for using the atm. (There may be a fee for using a Mastercard debit).
Find the exact location on the Narita airport web site.
I did have to pay the fee my bank charges for using an ATM other than theirs ($1.50) -- this showed up on my bank statement.
I just checked the exchange rate and it was the same or better than my USAA Mastercard credit card exchange rate.
The great thing is that 7 Bank is owned by 7/11 Japan and you can make similar withdrawals from 7/11 ATM's all over Tokyo (which I did). You probably can do the same in 7/11's elsewhere in Japan (there are a lot of 7/11's in Japan).
Much better than paying 500 yen to use a Citibank ATM -- unless you bank at Citibank.
Way sugoi.
jb