About Japanese Money

Japanese Currency

Japan uses the yen (¥) as its official currency. The yen is available in both coins and banknotes.

1. Coins

Japanese coins come in six denominations:

• 1 yen (aluminum, very light)
• 5 yen (brass, has a hole in the middle, considered lucky)
• 10 yen (bronze)
• 50 yen (nickel, has a hole in the middle)
• 100 yen (nickel)
• 500 yen (nickel-brass, one of the highest-value coins in the world)

2. Banknotes

There are four denominations of paper bills:

• 1,000 yen (blue color, smallest bill)
• 2,000 yen (rarely used, issued in 2000)
• 5,000 yen (purple color)
• 10,000 yen (brown color, largest bill)

3. Features

• Japanese money includes advanced anti-counterfeiting measures, such as watermarks and holograms.
• Designs feature famous historical figures, cultural landmarks, and traditional motifs.
• The yen does not use cents; instead, the smallest unit is the 1 yen coin.

Where You Can Use Japanese Cash

In Japan, cash is still widely accepted, even though digital payments are becoming more common. You can use Japanese yen in the following places:

1. Shops and Department Stores – Most clothing shops, electronics stores, and supermarkets accept cash.
2. Restaurants and Cafes – From high-end restaurants to small ramen shops, cash is usually welcome.
3. Convenience Stores – Major chains like 7-Eleven, Lawson, and FamilyMart always accept cash.
4. Hotels and Ryokan (Traditional Inns) – Most accommodations accept cash, though some may prefer credit cards for large payments.
5. Public Transportation – Buses, local trains, and ticket machines at stations accept cash.
6. Vending Machines – Drink, snack, and even some ticket vending machines work with coins and bills.
7. Temples and Shrines – For entrance fees, omamori (charms), and donations, cash is the norm.
8. Small Local Shops and Markets – Many small or rural businesses operate on a cash-only basis.

Tip: Always carry some cash, especially when visiting rural areas or small businesses, as card acceptance may be limited.