Travelers seeking refunds for Tokyo Disney packages are encountering unexpected losses due to currency fluctuations, despite being within free cancellation periods. Multiple consumers reported deductions of hundreds to over a thousand yuan when canceling Vacation Package (VP) bookings.
Song Yuan experienced this firsthand after canceling a 3-day, 2-night VP package originally booked for August 22-24. Though Tokyo Disney's policy allows free cancellations 21 days prior, her refund of ¥18,206.57 fell ¥1,084.91 short of her initial ¥19,291.48 payment. Transaction records reveal she paid 376,900 JPY on July 1, but the amount settled in CNY days later due to processing delays.
Industry experts attribute the discrepancy to exchange rate volatility during payment-processing gaps. When Song canceled on July 9, the JPY/CNY rate had dipped from her July 6 settlement date. Historical China Merchants Bank data shows JPY/CNY rates fluctuated throughout early July, declining overall despite minor rebounds on July 3 and 9.
Tokyo Disney confirmed refunds are processed in original currencies without deductions, shifting responsibility to forex movements. The five-day payment processing window and three-day refund period created dual exposure to currency shifts. Additionally, credit card foreign transaction fees further reduced net refund amounts.
This case highlights hidden costs in international bookings: While merchants honor cancellation policies, exchange rate swings during processing delays can significantly erode refund values. Travelers should monitor currency trends and account for bank processing timelines when modifying cross-border reservations.
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