What Currency Does Japan Use?
Facts last checked 31 August 2026.
Exchange rate (approximate):
1 USD ≈ 161.79 JPY
1 GBP ≈ 216.89 JPY
Rates are indicative (July 2026) and change daily. Always check live rates before travelling. Rates by Exchange Rate API.
Travel Money Card
Travelling to Japan? Avoid poor airport exchange rates — a prepaid travel money card or multi-currency card usually gets you a far better deal on Japanese yen spending.
What is money called in Japan?
Money in Japan is called the Japanese yen — its ISO 4217 currency code is JPY, and its symbol is ¥. The Japanese yen is the official legal tender in Japan and is used for all everyday transactions — from paying for goods and services to converting money at banks and exchange bureaus. When travelling, you may also see it referred to as the Japan currency or simply money in Japan.
Is the Japanese yen used anywhere else?
No — Japan is the only country on this site using the Japanese yen as its official currency.
Practical money tips for Japan
Card payments are widely accepted in most cities, but it's still worth carrying some Japanese yen in cash for smaller vendors, local transport and rural areas. Notify your bank before travelling to avoid transactions being blocked, and compare card fees — many cards charge a foreign transaction fee that a dedicated travel money card avoids.
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Money essentials for Japan
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Japan currency — FAQ
What is the currency of Japan?
The currency of Japan is the Japanese yen (currency code: JPY, symbol: ¥).
What is the currency code for Japan?
The ISO 4217 currency code for the Japanese yen is JPY.
What is the Japanese yen symbol?
The symbol for the Japanese yen is ¥. You will see this on price tags and receipts throughout Japan.
What currency is used in Japan?
The official currency used in Japan is the Japanese yen (JPY).
Can I use US dollars in Japan?
The official currency of Japan is the Japanese yen, not the US dollar. While USD may be accepted in some tourist hotels and major cities, you will generally get better rates paying in Japanese yen and should exchange money before or on arrival.
What is the exchange rate for Japan?
As of July 2026, approximately 1 USD = 161.79 JPY and 1 GBP = 216.89 JPY. Rates change daily — always check a live source before travelling or sending money.
What is money called in Japan?
Money in Japan is called the Japanese yen (JPY).
Do other countries use the Japanese yen?
No — Japan is the only country on this site using the Japanese yen as its official currency.
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