Japanese yen: notes, coins and how to pay

The Japanese yen (¥, JPY) is the only currency accepted in Japan. Foreign currencies are not taken in shops, so travelers pay in yen by card, IC card or cash. Understanding the notes and coins makes daily payments faster, especially at ticket machines and small restaurants.

Banknotes and coins

New banknote designs entered circulation in July 2024: Shibusawa Eiichi on the ¥10,000 note, Tsuda Umeko on the ¥5,000 note and Kitasato Shibasaburo on the ¥1,000 note. Older notes remain legal tender, although a few older vending and ticket machines took time to accept the new ones.

Where to get Japanese yen

• ATMs: the most convenient option. Machines in 7-Eleven stores and post offices accept most foreign cards.
• Airports: exchange counters at Narita, Haneda and Kansai open for most arrivals, with average rates.
• Banks and exchange shops: available in cities; rates vary, and passports may be requested.
• Before departure: a small amount bought at home covers the first transport and meals.

Paying by card and phone

Cards are accepted in most hotels, department stores, chain restaurants and stations. When a terminal offers to charge in your home currency, choosing yen usually avoids an extra conversion margin. Apple Pay and Google Pay work wherever contactless payment is accepted, and IC cards such as Suica can be added to phones.

Cash habits

Payments are placed in a small tray at the counter rather than handed over directly. Notes are counted in front of the customer, and change is returned the same way. Coins accumulate quickly: use them for lockers, buses, vending machines and shrine offerings.

Exchange rate and budgeting

The value of the Japanese yen has been relatively weak against the dollar and the euro since 2022, which makes Japan cheaper for many visitors. Rates move daily, so check a current rate before budgeting and allow a margin. The trip budget guide shows typical prices in yen.

Bringing cash into Japan

Amounts of cash, cheques or securities above ¥1,000,000 in total must be declared to customs on arrival and departure. Smaller amounts need no formalities.

Practical tips for paying

• Keep ¥1,000 notes and coins for buses, where change for large notes may be limited.
• Ticket machines accept ¥10,000 notes, but small shops prefer smaller notes for low amounts.
• Many shrines and temples accept only cash for entry fees and offerings.

Prices and tax

Displayed prices include consumption tax, so the amount on the label is the amount paid, except in a few places that show tax-exclusive prices next to the total.

Coins in daily life

The ¥100 coin is the most useful: it pays for lockers, vending machines and many small purchases. ¥100 shops such as Daiso sell everyday items, from travel accessories to snacks, for ¥110 including tax, and are popular with visitors looking for inexpensive souvenirs.

Official source: Japan National Tourism Organization

Frequently asked questions