ATM networks in Asia
 

Hello

I am leaving for my first visit to Asia and would like to use atms as a source for cash as i go. Looking for a network that is wide spread and has the best chance of acceptance. The cities on this trip are Hong Kong, Osaka—Kyoto, Beijing, Hanoi and throughout north Vietnam down to Hoi An. A MasterCard with Maestro network is what is available here in my part of the US. Anyone have experience with Maestro in these spots and were there any difficulties or are there other suggestions.
Thanks
Freedlander

I used my ATM card - Cirrus - at Post offices in Tokyo last year. The link below shows what type of cards they honor. It looks like the middle one is Maestro.
http://www.yu-cho.japanpost.jp/e_a0000000/aa200000.htm
Don't know about the other countries.
Mara

You will not have any problem getting money in Hong Kong from most ATMs with any ATM card with the Meastro or Plus network. From what people have said, no problem elsewhere too. But it would be wise to have some backups.

atms are wide spread thoughout asia with a few exceptions like laos and cambodia...small towns may present a problem...visa, mastercard adn cirrus are normal there...

Thanks to all for the information. I will rest easier knowing there is good chance to access cash along the way.

Thanks Again
Freedlander

not sure if you have a numeric or alpha password to yur debit card, but make sure you know both. i got all confused in Guangzhou b/c i remembered my password by the letters, not #s and there machine didn't have letters on it and the numbers in a different order. i tried 3 times and the machine took my card. i had to go back the next day to rectrieve it with my passport and stuff.