Cash in Japan

About Japanese cash

Japan’s cash system is composed of both coins and banknotes, each with distinct designs and values that have evolved over time. Japanese currency, called the yen (¥), is known for its precision in design, cultural representations, and attention to anti-counterfeiting measures. Recent efforts to redesign and issue new banknotes reflect a modernization of Japan's cash system while preserving its historical and cultural elements. Here’s an overview of Japanese cash, the types of coins and banknotes, and the upcoming changes in Japan's banknotes.

Types of bills and coins

Coins

Japanese coins have long been a vital part of daily transactions and are produced with materials and designs that reflect Japan’s history and values. The six current denominations are as follows:

・1 Yen Coin:
Made of aluminum, the 1-yen coin is the lightest and smallest coin in Japan. Its design features a young tree, symbolizing growth and prosperity.
・5 Yen Coin:
Made of brass, this coin is unique because it has a hole in the center. The 5-yen coin is considered a “lucky coin” as its Japanese pronunciation, go-en, sounds like the word for “good fortune.” It is decorated with symbols of agriculture, such as rice stalks and water.
・10 Yen Coin:
Made of bronze, the 10-yen coin features the Phoenix Hall of Byodo-in Temple, a famous historical site in Uji, Kyoto. This coin is slightly larger and heavier than the 1 and 5-yen coins.
・50 Yen Coin:
Made of cupronickel and also featuring a hole, the 50-yen coin is engraved with flowers, often representing Japan's natural beauty. It’s smaller than the 100-yen coin but has a unique design that differentiates it.
・100 Yen Coin:
Also made of cupronickel, the 100-yen coin is decorated with sakura (cherry blossoms), one of Japan's most beloved symbols. This coin is frequently used in daily transactions and vending machines.
・500 Yen Coin:
Made from nickel-brass, the 500-yen coin is the highest denomination and one of the most valuable coins in circulation globally. Its design features Japanese flora, such as bamboo and oranges, symbolizing prosperity. The 500-yen coin is notable for its advanced anti-counterfeit features, including microscopic engravings and unique ridges.

Banknotes

Japanese banknotes are distinctive for their intricate designs, historical figures, and advanced anti-counterfeiting technology. Currently, there are four denominations:

・1,000 Yen Note:
This note features Hideo Noguchi, a renowned Japanese bacteriologist who made significant contributions to medical science. The reverse side displays Mount Fuji and cherry blossoms, emphasizing Japan’s natural beauty.
・2,000 Yen Note:
Rare in circulation, this note features an image of Shureimon Gate in Okinawa, symbolizing peace. The reverse side has a scene from The Tale of Genji, highlighting Japanese literary history.
・5,000 Yen Note:
This note features Ichiyo Higuchi, a prominent female writer known for her literary contributions in the Meiji period. The reverse side displays a painting of irises by Ogata Korin, an Edo-period artist, symbolizing Japanese aesthetics.
・10,000 Yen Note:
Japan’s highest denomination note, it features Yukichi Fukuzawa, an influential scholar and founder of Keio University. The reverse side displays a phoenix from the Byodo-in Temple, symbolizing longevity and prosperity.

The New series of banknotes

In 2024, Japan plans to introduce a new series of banknotes to replace the current ones. This update marks the first major redesign in 20 years and incorporates advanced technology to improve security and anti-counterfeiting features.

・1,000 Yen Note:
The new 1,000-yen note will feature Shibasaburo Kitasato, a pioneering doctor who played a major role in developing treatments for infectious diseases. The reverse side will depict The Great Wave off Kanagawa by Hokusai, celebrating Japanese art and cultural heritage.
・5,000 Yen Note:
This note will feature Umeko Tsuda, a pioneering educator and advocate for women's education in Japan. The reverse side will display wisteria flowers, which are highly regarded in Japan for their beauty and cultural significance.
・10,000 Yen Note:
The new 10,000-yen note will feature Eiichi Shibusawa, a historical figure known as the “father of Japanese capitalism” who promoted modern economic reforms in Japan. The reverse side will continue to feature the Phoenix from Byodo-in Temple as a symbol of resilience and renewal.

Key features of New banknotes

The new series of Japanese banknotes will incorporate some of the most advanced anti-counterfeiting technologies in the world.

⚪︎ Holograms:
Each banknote will have high-definition holograms that change color and pattern when viewed from different angles, making them challenging to replicate.
⚪︎ Enhanced Tactile Marks:
To aid those with visual impairments, the new notes will feature distinct tactile marks on each denomination, allowing individuals to recognize them by touch.
⚪︎ Microprinting and UV Ink:
Each note will contain microprinting, which is only visible under magnification, and UV-reactive ink that reveals additional images or text under ultraviolet light.
⚪︎ High-Resolution Portraits:
Using advanced printing techniques, each banknote will feature highly detailed portraits, making it easier to identify genuine notes and harder for counterfeiters to imitate.