Pocket Change Expands Foreign Currency Exchange at Sapporo Factory

Pocket Change Expands Services at Sapporo Factory

In an exciting development for travelers, Pocket Change, a leading currency exchange service, has announced its third kiosk installation in Hokkaido. Located at the renowned Sapporo Factory, this kiosk will officially open its doors to the public on May 2, 2025. The service allows both residents and international visitors to easily convert leftover foreign coins and banknotes into electronic money or gift codes, enhancing their shopping and dining experience in the area.

About Sapporo Factory

Sapporo Factory is a large commercial complex featuring around 150 shops, restaurants, a cinema, hotels, and even a brewery, making it a bustling hub in Sapporo City. With a significant rise in international tourists, the area has recognized the need for convenient currency exchange options. In the first half of 2024 alone, Sapporo witnessed over 802,000 foreign visitors, a remarkable increase of 37.8% compared to the previous year. This reflects the increasing global interest in Sapporo, and the installation of Pocket Change at such a prominent location is designed to benefit both local residents and tourists alike.

What is Pocket Change?

Pocket Change is essentially a service that allows people to exchange foreign coins and banknotes for electronic currencies and gift codes. The kiosks have been strategically placed at airports, train stations, commercial facilities, and game centers across Japan, from Hokkaido to Fukuoka, contributing to a growing network aimed at assisting international travelers.

How to Use Pocket Change

Using the Pocket Change kiosks is remarkably straightforward. Users can simply touch the screen to make exchanges without the need for prior registration or personal information. The kiosks support a variety of electronic payment options, including transportation IC cards such as Suica, as well as various gift codes like Rakuten Edy, WAON, nanaco, Amazon gift cards, au PAY gift cards, and Google Play gift codes.

The service accommodates exchanges for ten different currencies, including Japanese Yen. Notably, it allows for the exchange of coins into electronic money for four specific currencies: US Dollars, Euros, Chinese Yuan, and South Korean Won. This feature is particularly beneficial for travelers who face the dilemma of being unable to use foreign currency upon returning to Japan. With Pocket Change, they can seamlessly convert their funds into local spending options.

Additionally, the kiosks support five languages: Japanese, English, Traditional Chinese, Simplified Chinese, and Korean, ensuring that foreign users can navigate the service with ease.

Future Plans for Pocket Change

Pocket Change is committed to continuously enhancing the convenience and accessibility of its services for all international travelers. The Sapporo Factory installation marks a significant step in this journey, making it easier for visitors to enjoy what Sapporo has to offer.