In Japan, cash is used more than electronic payment systems. This is something to bear in mind if you are planning a trip.
The yen, Japan's first true currency, was introduced in 1871 during the Meiji period. Decades of rapid development followed, leading the yen to become one of the most powerful international currencies. By 1897, Japan's national currency was considered stable and valuable by all economic operators.
The unfavorable outcome of World War II led to a financial collapse in Japan and the consequent devaluation of the yen. Starting in the 1970s, the Japanese economic situation turned around and ensured a period of prosperity for the Japanese people.
The 10,000 yen banknote features the image of the famous samurai Yukichi Fukuzawa, who was also one of the country's most important intellectuals and educators. He is considered one of the founders of modern Japan.
The ¥5,000 banknote is very distinctive because it is the only one to feature shades of purple. The image depicted belongs to one of Japan's most popular writers: Higuchi Ichiyo.
The element featured on the ¥2,000 banknote commemorates the famous writer Murasaki Shikibu and her most important work: “Genji Monogatari.” This denomination is among the rarest and least common, so much so that some of the younger generation have never seen one. However, it is possible to obtain one at a bank or currency exchange office at the airport. Please note that vending machines do not accept ¥2,000 notes.
L'ultimo taglio di carta è la banconota da 1,000¥ caratterizzata dall'immagine di un altro personaggio illustre: il medico e batteriologo Hideyo Noguchi che dal 2004 ha sostituito lo scrittore Natsume Kinnosuke
500 ¥
100 ¥
The flower depicted is the Sakura, or cherry blossom.
50¥
The floral elements featured are chrysanthemums, which symbolize longevity and youth in Japan.
10¥
The building depicted is the main hall of Byodo-in Temple in Kyoto.
5¥
This coin depicts ears of rice. The similarity between the words “5 yen” and “destiny bond,” which are both read as “goen,” makes this coin special. It is often left in temples as an offering, or placed in a wallet or used as a key chain to bring good luck.
1¥
The image depicts sprouts.
