The Japanese yen comes in both banknotes and coins. Within Japan, most places accept only yen, with foreign currencies rarely usable outside international airports and select facilities.

While credit cards and e-money are widely accepted, it’s still a good idea to carry some cash when traveling in Japan. Below, we take a look at the new banknotes issued in 2024 alongside older designs, including the historical figures featured on each bill.

Japanese banknotes come in four denominations: 10,000 yen, 5,000 yen, 2,000 yen, and 1,000 yen. In Japan, banknotes are commonly referred to as “osatsu.” As they are issued by the Bank of Japan, each note is labeled “Bank of Japan Note,” and thanks to advanced anti-counterfeiting technology, Japan’s banknote printing is considered among the most sophisticated in the world.

Below, we introduce the new banknotes issued in 2024, along with a comparison to the 2004 designs. Even after the release of the new series, older notes remain valid and can still be used.

10,000 yen

・2024 Banknote
Eiichi Shibusawa is often called the “father of Japan’s modern economy.” Invited by the Meiji government, he served as a Ministry of Finance official and played a key role in shaping systems such as currency, household registration, and public finance. He was also involved in founding and developing around 500 companies, including Japan’s first national bank, Dai-Ichi Bank, as well as the Tokyo Stock Exchange.

The portrait on the new note is based on photographs taken around his 70th birthday, along with other references, and was designed to reflect a more energetic image from his early 60s. The reverse side features Tokyo Station’s Marunouchi building, the iconic red-brick station that remains both an important historic landmark and a designated cultural property.

・2004 Banknote
The front features a portrait of Yukichi Fukuzawa, a leading Enlightenment thinker of the Meiji era. The reverse shows the phoenix statue from Byodoin Phoenix Hall in Kyoto.

An earlier version of the 10,000 yen note issued in 1984 also features Fukuzawa on the front, but the reverse design differs, depicting two pheasants instead. Both versions of the Fukuzawa 10,000 yen banknote remain valid and can still be used.

5,000 yen

・2024 Banknote
Tsuda Umeko was a pioneering educator and the founder of Tsuda University (originally Joshi Eigaku Juku). In 1871, at just 6 years old, she became one of Japan’s first female students to study abroad, spending about 11 years in the United States. She later returned to study biology at Bryn Mawr College, where her research was published in a British academic journal, making her the first Japanese woman to publish in a Western academic journal.

She dedicated her life to advancing women’s education, aiming to nurture women who could work and contribute alongside men as equals. The reverse side of the note features wisteria flowers, a plant admired since ancient times and referenced in classic texts such as the Kojiki and Manyoshu.

・2004 Banknote
The front features a portrait of Ichiyo Higuchi, a novelist and poet from the Meiji era. The reverse shows part of the national treasure Irises, painted by Edo-period artist Ogata Korin, a work considered highly significant in the history of Japanese art.

This 5,000 yen note is also notable as the first Japanese banknote to feature a woman’s portrait.

2,000 yen

・2,000 yen Banknote
Many people may not realize that Japan also has a 2,000 yen banknote, first issued in 2000. The front features Shureimon Gate at Shuri Castle in Okinawa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On the reverse, the left side shows a scene from The Tale of Genji Illustrated Scrolls, specifically Chapter 38 “Bell Cricket,” while the right side features a portrait of Murasaki Shikibu, the author of The Tale of Genji and a renowned poet.

As of June 2024, the 2,000 yen note remains in circulation but is relatively rare and not commonly seen in daily use. It is still fully valid, though it was not included in the new banknote series issued in July 2024.

1,000 yen

・2024 Banknote
Kitasato Shibasaburo was a pioneering bacteriologist known as the “father of modern medicine” in Japan. After studying at Tokyo Medical School (now the University of Tokyo Faculty of Medicine), he went on to Germany, where in 1889 he successfully isolated and cultivated the tetanus bacterium, something previously thought impossible. After returning to Japan, he founded the Institute for Infectious Diseases and later traveled to Hong Kong in 1894, where he identified the plague bacterium.

The portrait used on this redesigned note is based on photographs of Kitasato in his 50s, along with other references, capturing his dignity, refinement, and scholarly presence. The reverse features Thirty-Six Views of Mount Fuji (The Great Wave off Kanagawa) by ukiyo-e artist Katsushika Hokusai, with Mount Fuji visible in the background.

・2004 Banknote
The 1,000 yen note is the denomination most commonly used in everyday situations, such as at restaurants. The front features a portrait of bacteriologist Hideyo Noguchi, who made significant contributions to yellow fever research and was considered a strong candidate for the Nobel Prize. The reverse depicts Mount Fuji alongside cherry blossoms, both iconic symbols of Japan.

Japanese coins come in six denominations: 500 yen, 100 yen, 50 yen, 10 yen, 5 yen, and 1 yen. The 50 yen and 5 yen coins are distinctive for their holes in the center. Coins are commonly referred to as “kozeni” in Japan, and each denomination may also be called by names like “500 yen dama.”

Like banknotes, coins have a front and back. The side with the year of minting is considered the reverse, while the opposite side is the front. In 2024, only new banknotes were issued, and no new coin designs were introduced.

500 yen

The 500 yen coin is the largest in size among Japanese coins. The front features a paulownia design, while the reverse includes bamboo at the top and tachibana (Japanese citrus) on both sides. The coin shown above is the “new” 500 yen coin issued on November 1, 2021. While the newer version is still less common in circulation, the older version is more widely seen, and both share the same size.

The edge of the coin features uniquely patterned ridges that differ at four points around the circumference, a world-first security feature. It also incorporates multiple types of metal layered and embedded in a ring structure. Despite its advanced technology, the newer 500 yen coin may not be accepted in some vending machines or ticket machines due to its lower circulation, so it’s something to keep in mind while traveling in Japan.

100 yen

The 100 yen coin is made of cupronickel. The front features the words “Japan” and “100 yen,” along with cherry blossoms, a symbol of spring in Japan. The reverse displays the number “100” and the year of minting.

Along with the 10 yen coin, the 100 yen coin is one of the most commonly used denominations in vending machines and other automated systems across Japan.

50 yen

The 50 yen coin is made of cupronickel and features a hole in the center. The front displays the words “Japan” and “50 yen,” along with a chrysanthemum design, while the reverse shows the number “50” and the year of minting. The hole is said to help distinguish it from other coins by touch.

10 yen

The 10 yen coin is made of bronze. The front features the words “Japan” and “10 yen,” along with an image of Byodoin Phoenix Hall and arabesque patterns. The reverse shows an evergreen tree design, the number “10,” and the year of minting.

Like the 100 yen coin, it is widely used in vending machines and public transportation systems.

5 yen

The 5 yen coin is made of brass and, like the 50 yen coin, features a hole in the center. First minted in 1959, its design reflects Japan’s key industries at the time: rice ears symbolize agriculture, water represents fisheries, and the gear stands for industry.

On the reverse, the young tree buds symbolize Japan’s postwar growth and renewal.

1 yen

The 1 yen coin is made of aluminum, making it both the smallest and lightest coin in Japan. The front features the words “Japan” and “1 yen,” along with a young tree design, while the reverse shows the number “1” and the year of minting.

Note that 1 yen coins cannot be used in vending machines or ticket machines.

On July 3, 2024, Japan introduced newly redesigned banknotes for the first time in 20 years, since the 2004 series. The update brings major changes to both design and functionality, with a strong focus on advanced anti-counterfeiting technology.

One of the most noticeable changes is the portrait on the front of each note. There’s a clear reason for this choice. Human eyes are highly sensitive to subtle differences in facial features and expressions, making portraits particularly effective for detecting counterfeits. The selected figures are widely recognized and respected in Japan, with final decisions made by the Minister of Finance.

The primary goal of issuing new banknotes is to prevent the circulation of counterfeit money. While cases have decreased in recent years, 7,681 counterfeit notes were still identified in fiscal 2023, including 583 ten-thousand yen notes, 20 five-thousand yen notes, and 78 one-thousand yen notes. To address this, the new series incorporates several cutting-edge security features:

Even after the release of the new banknotes, older notes remain valid and can be used indefinitely. This applies not only to the “old” series issued before 2024, but also to even earlier banknotes, with a total of 22 types still considered legal tender.

Banknotes that are no longer in circulation can also be exchanged for current ones at Bank of Japan branches.

The new banknotes can be used just like before at shops and vending machines. However, shortly after their release, some vending machines, ticket machines, and change machines may not yet accept them.

It’s a good idea to carry some coins as a backup, or use credit cards and electronic payments when needed. As mentioned earlier, the new 500 yen coin introduced in 2021 may also not be accepted in some machines.

Exchanging your money before departure can give you peace of mind, ensuring you have yen ready to use as soon as you arrive in Japan. You can also exchange currency at the airport after arrival, but be mindful of your arrival time, as exchange counters may be closed late at night or early in the morning.

In Japan, you can exchange money at banks, post offices, and some hotels, though fees vary by location. Another convenient option is withdrawing yen directly from ATMs using an overseas-issued debit or credit card. Many convenience store ATMs now support this service, so it’s worth checking in advance.

As mentioned earlier, older banknotes remain valid even after the release of the new series. If you still have yen from a previous trip, you can bring and use it in Japan without any issues.

Below are approximate exchange rates as of March 27, 2026, for reference when preparing your travel budget. Exchange rates fluctuate daily, so be sure to check the latest rates before your trip.

・AUD (Australian Dollar): 1 = 109.69 yen
・CAD (Canadian Dollar): 1 = 115.15 yen
・CNY (Chinese Yuan): 1 = 23.05 yen
・EUR (Euro): 1 = 183.94 yen
・GBP (British Pound): 1 = 212.81 yen
・HKD (Hong Kong Dollar): 1 = 20.42 yen
・IDR (Indonesian Rupiah): 1 = 0.0095 yen
・KRW (South Korean Won): 1 = 0.106 yen
・SGD (Singapore Dollar): 1 = 124.00 yen
・THB (Thai Baht): 1 = 4.84 yen
・TWD (New Taiwan Dollar): 1 = 5.07 yen
・USD (US Dollar): 1 = 159.60 yen

Here are a few useful tips to keep in mind when using cash in Japan:

While cash is widely used, credit cards and electronic payments are also accepted across Japan. However, at event venues, smaller shops outside major cities, souvenir stores, restaurants, and taxis, cash may still be the only option, so it’s important to carry some with you.

Credit cards are accepted at many places in Japan, including restaurants, convenience stores, drugstores, and shopping malls. However, some tourist shops, taxis, and ticket machines for public transportation may not accept them. Debit cards can be used in certain locations, but they are generally less widely accepted than credit cards.

Transportation IC cards are prepaid e-money cards issued by railway companies across Japan. These include Suica (JR East), PASMO (major private railways), Kitaca (JR Hokkaido), TOICA (JR Central), ICOCA (JR West), and SUGOCA (JR Kyushu).

They are mainly used for trains, subways, and buses, but can also be used at vending machines, convenience stores, and supermarkets, making them extremely convenient.

Purchase methods vary by provider, but cards can usually be bought at major station counters or ticket machines. Some services also allow you to use IC cards via smartphone apps.

Mobile payment apps using barcodes or QR codes have become increasingly popular in Japan. After topping up your balance, you can pay at convenience stores, supermarkets, various shops, facilities, and even some vending machines.

Popular options include PayPay and Rakuten Pay.

Traveler’s checks were once considered one of the safest ways to carry money abroad. However, they are no longer issued in Japan and are rarely accepted, making them impractical for travel in Japan today. It’s best to rely on cash, credit cards, or e-wallets instead.

In Japan, both cash and electronic payments are widely used. That said, outside major cities, many shops, vending machines, and ticket machines at tourist sites may still accept only cash. For a smooth trip, it’s best to carry a combination of cash and digital payment options.

Here are some interesting facts about Japanese currency. Next time you visit Japan, you might even find yourself sharing these with friends and family.

The lifespan of Japanese banknotes varies by denomination. 10,000 yen notes typically last around 4–5 years, while 5,000 yen and 1,000 yen notes, which are used more frequently, last about 1–2 years.

Used banknotes are returned to the Bank of Japan via financial institutions. After inspection, worn or damaged notes are shredded into small pieces and recycled into items such as building materials, toilet paper, or office supplies, or disposed of as waste.

Japanese banknotes include tactile markings to help visually impaired users distinguish denominations by touch. These marks are located near the lower edges of the front side.

Each denomination has a different shape: the 10,000 yen note uses a key-like design, the 5,000 yen note an octagon, the 1,000 yen note horizontal lines, and the 2,000 yen note features a braille-style “ni.”

In addition, 10,000 yen and 5,000 yen notes include holograms in the lower left corner, which differ in shape and texture. Since May 2014, the 5,000 yen hologram changed from an oval to a square and became about 1.7 times larger, while the 10,000 yen note retains an oval shape.

Damaged or stained banknotes can be exchanged at the Bank of Japan headquarters in Nihombashi, Tokyo, or at its 32 branches nationwide. Some private financial institutions may also offer this service.

Exchange value depends on the condition:
・More than two-thirds intact → full value
・Between two-fifths and two-thirds intact → half value
・Less than two-fifths intact → not exchangeable

The 2,000 yen note was issued in 2000 to commemorate the Okinawa Summit. However, it is rarely seen in circulation and is often not accepted in vending machines or ticket machines.

If you’re hoping to find one, Okinawa offers the best chance. Interestingly, you may even have better luck obtaining one outside Japan at certain banks or exchange counters.

Yes, there are multiple designs of the 10,000 yen note. The 2004 version features a phoenix on the reverse, while an older version from 1984 shows two pheasants.

The 1984 version does not include modern holographic security features, but both designs are still valid.

Although official production costs are not publicly disclosed, estimates based on material prices suggest that making a 1 yen coin costs around 2–3 yen.

For comparison, estimated costs are about 7 yen for a 5 yen coin, 10 yen for a 10 yen coin, 25 yen for a 100 yen coin, and around 30 yen for a 500 yen coin.

Under Japanese law, banknotes can be used without limit in a single transaction. However, coins are limited to 20 per denomination.

For example, a shop may refuse payment if you try to use more than 20 coins of the same type. This rule is intended to reduce inconvenience for the recipient, though they may accept more if they choose.

Both the 5 yen and 50 yen coins have holes, but for different reasons. The 5 yen coin, introduced in 1949, included a hole to reduce material costs during a time of postwar inflation.

The 50 yen coin, on the other hand, was given a hole to distinguish it from the similar-looking 100 yen coin.

After learning all these facts about Japanese currency, you might find yourself seeing it in a whole new way. While cash is something used every day, these thoughtful details reflect the precision and care that define Japan’s approach to design.