Currency in Japan: the Japanese yen
Japan uses the Japanese yen, written JPY and shown with the symbol ¥. The country is more card-friendly than its reputation suggests, but cash still matters for small shops, temples and rural areas. The yen also has a coin economy of its own, so a coin purse is not a fashion statement. It is practical.
Reviewed 5 November 2026. Rates update automatically.
Updated · Latest mid-market rate
Mid-market rate for guidance only. Banks and transfer providers add a margin and may charge a fee. This site does not handle, hold or transfer money.
Some provider links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. This never changes the rate or fee you are offered.
Rate context
Over the last 30 days of published data, 1 USD moved between 156.80 and 159.23 JPY, with an average of 157.98. The change over the period was +0.49%.
| You send | Mid-market value |
|---|---|
| 10 USD | 1,595.14 JPY |
| 50 USD | 7,975.69 JPY |
| 100 USD | 15,951.38 JPY |
| 500 USD | 79,756.89 JPY |
| 1,000 USD | 159,513.78 JPY |
The yen is a free floating currency and a traditional safe haven. Bank of Japan policy and the gap between Japanese and US bond yields are the main drivers. When global investors are nervous, the yen often gains. When carry trades are popular, it can weaken. For travelers, the practical result is that the yen can move significantly over a few months.
Rates are indicative and can change. About our rates.
Japanese Yen key facts
Yen, coins and the cash habit
The Japanese yen is issued by the Bank of Japan. The ISO code is JPY and the symbol is ¥. The yen has no minor unit in everyday circulation, so prices are whole yen. Coins start at 1 yen and go up to 500 yen.
Japan is still a cash-using society in many small businesses, even though cards and contactless payments have become more common in cities. A mix of cash and a card is the most practical approach.
Where cards work, and where they do not
Credit cards are accepted at hotels, department stores, large restaurants and convenience stores. Smaller shops, temples, rural businesses and some taxis may be cash only. Carry some yen even if you plan to pay by card.
If a card terminal offers to charge you in your home currency, decline it and pay in yen. That conversion is usually done at a less favorable rate. The same rule applies at ATMs.
The ATM map that saves a trip
Not every Japanese ATM accepts foreign cards. Seven Bank ATMs in 7-Eleven stores and Japan Post ATMs are commonly used by visitors. Bank ATMs may have limited hours. Check the operator fee and choose to be charged in yen if the machine offers a choice.
Airport exchange counters are convenient for a first day of cash, but compare the rate before changing a large amount. For the rest, an ATM withdrawal or a bank exchange can be cheaper. Keep your passport with you when exchanging money.
IC cards are not just for trains
IC cards such as Suica and Pasmo are useful for trains, buses and convenience stores. You can load them at stations and many machines. They are not a substitute for cash, but they reduce the number of small payments you need to make.
If you are staying for a while, an IC card also saves time at ticket gates. If you are on a short trip, a card and a small cash reserve may be enough.
No tipping, but there is a service charge
Tipping is not part of Japanese culture. Service is generally included in the price, and leaving extra money can cause confusion. If a restaurant or hotel has a service charge, it will be shown on the bill.
Carry a small coin purse. Japan uses coins heavily, and a purse makes it easier to pay quickly on buses, at temples and in small shops. Keep your cash and cards in separate places.
A budget that survives the coin economy
Use the converter above to turn your daily budget into yen, then add a margin for ATM fees and card charges. Larger cities accept cards more widely, but rural areas and small businesses may not.
If you are traveling during a busy season, book accommodation early and keep a cash reserve for places that do not accept cards. A small amount of planning makes the currency side of the trip much simpler.
Safety and scams
Japan is generally a low-crime country, but normal precautions still apply. Keep your passport, cards and cash in separate places, and avoid carrying large amounts of cash in one wallet.
Use ATMs in convenience stores, post offices or bank branches. Check the operator fee and choose to be charged in yen if the machine offers a choice. If a card is lost, contact your bank immediately and use a backup card.
Frequently asked questions
What is the currency in Japan?
The Japanese yen (JPY) is the legal currency. It is issued by the Bank of Japan and shown with the symbol ¥.
Can I use credit cards in Japan?
Cards are accepted at hotels, department stores, large restaurants and convenience stores, but smaller shops, temples and rural businesses may be cash only. Carry some yen as a backup.
Where can I withdraw cash in Japan?
Seven Bank ATMs in 7-Eleven stores and Japan Post ATMs commonly accept foreign cards. Bank ATMs may have limited hours. Check the operator fee before withdrawing.
Do I need to tip in Japan?
No. Tipping is not part of Japanese culture and service is generally included in the price. Leaving extra money can cause confusion.
Is it better to buy yen before I travel?
Buying a small amount before you leave can be convenient, but compare the rate and fees. For larger amounts, a bank exchange or an ATM withdrawal in Japan may be cheaper.
Useful links
CurrenciesLive is an informational tool. It does not process, hold or transfer funds. Rates are indicative mid-market values, not quotes from any provider.