Japan is a country with a long, rich financial history, and at the center of its economy stands the Japanese yen (JPY). Recognized as one of the most traded currencies in the world, the yen plays a vital role not only in Japan’s economy but also in global markets.
This blog will walk you through the history and origins of the Japanese yen, its symbols, distinctions, and security features, while also answering practical questions like, “Does the Japanese yen have cents?” or “Can I still use old Japanese yen?”
Most importantly, we will also explore how to buy, exchange, and use yen—and how modern digital solutions like Jeton Wallet and Jeton Card make managing money in Japan easier than ever. Let’s start to dive into the currency of Japan!
The Currency of Japan: Origins and History
The yen, meaning “circle” or “round object,” was officially adopted in 1871 under the New Currency Act by the Meiji government. At the time, Japan aimed to stabilize its economy and modernize its financial system.
In 1897, Japan adopted the gold exchange standard, though this system was later abandoned in 1931. The value of the yen fluctuated significantly over time, particularly during and after World War II. The floating nature of the yen caused its overall value to drop.
Later, through the Smithsonian Agreement, the yen was pegged to the US dollar, though this fixed exchange did not last long due to market volatility. However, with damaging fluctuations in the supply and demand aspects of the market, the agreement was dropped.
Today, while its value fluctuates against the US dollar and the euro, the yen remains the third most traded currency in the world, reflecting its importance in international trade and finance.
What Is the Symbol of the Japanese Yen?
The currency symbol for the Japanese yen is ¥. It’s often paired with numbers (e.g., ¥1000) to denote prices in Japan. This simple yet globally recognizable sign allows seamless communication in financial transactions and markets.
For international traders and travelers, identifying this symbol is essential, as it represents one of the strongest and most influential currencies globally.
Distinctions of the Japanese Yen
There are several things the Japanese yen has that make it different from other currencies. Japanese yen banknotes and coins hold cultural and historical value. The coins, for example, often have holes in the middle, such as the 5 yen and 50 yen coins, which makes them unique compared to many other global currencies.
The banknotes also honor important historical figures:
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¥10,000 bill: Yukichi Fukuzawa (scholar and founder of Keio University)
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¥5,000 bill: Ichiyo Higuchi (renowned writer)
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¥1,000 bill: Hideyo Noguchi (bacteriologist)
These details connect Japan’s currency not only to economic value but also to its cultural heritage.
Can I Still Use Old Japanese Yen?
If you wonder about “Can I still use old Japanese yen?” yes—but with conditions. Older Japanese yen notes and coins may still be exchanged at Bank of Japan branches or certain financial institutions. However, outdated currency designs are gradually phased out to maintain anti-counterfeiting measures.
If you are holding old yen before traveling to Japan, it is best to exchange them in advance or confirm with a local bank whether they are still valid for use.
Learn more about managing money and payments in Japan with Jeton:
The Yen’s Security Features
Japan’s currency is one of the most difficult to counterfeit. The bills feature many anti-counterfeit measures, including watermarks, holograms, and intaglio ink, which raises the print of the bills to the touch. It would be difficult to print or scan a similar one.
Key features include:
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Watermarks for authenticity checks
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Holograms to deter counterfeiting
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Intaglio printing, which gives a raised texture that you can feel
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Luminescent ink that glows under UV light
These advanced features make it extremely difficult to produce counterfeit yen, ensuring security and trust in the currency.
Does the Japanese Yen Have Cents?
Instead of “cents,” Japan uses a smaller unit called the sen, though it is no longer in everyday circulation. Modern transactions are conducted in whole yen (¥1 being the smallest unit commonly used).
This simplicity helps make financial transactions straightforward, both for locals and for tourists visiting Japan.
Why Is the Japanese Yen So Weak?
In recent years, many ask, “Why is the Japanese yen so weak?” This is often tied to Japan’s economic policies, interest rates, and international trade conditions.
The Bank of Japan’s low interest rates compared to the US and Europe make the yen less attractive for investors. Additionally, global market dynamics, inflation trends, and trade balances all influence its strength.
However, for tourists and foreign businesses, a weaker yen means more purchasing power in Japan, making travel and investment more appealing.
How to Buy Japanese Yen?
If you’re planning a trip to Japan or need yen for business, here are some common ways to buy Japanese Yen:
- Currency exchange offices at airports or in major cities
- Banks offering yen purchases at competitive exchange rates
- Digital wallets like Jeton, where you can deposit funds and convert them to yen instantly
Buying yen in advance ensures you avoid high exchange fees abroad. With Jeton Wallet, you can also load yen directly onto your digital account, ready for both online and offline payments.
How to Exchange Japanese Yen?
Exchanging yen can be done in several ways:
- Banks and exchange offices in Japan or your home country
- ATMs in Japan that accept foreign cards (though fees may apply)
- Digital platforms like Jeton, which allow you to convert currencies instantly at competitive rates
Digital methods are becoming the preferred option due to convenience, security, and cost savings.
How to Use Jeton in Japan?
- Download the Jeton App from the App Store or Google Play.
- Sign up with your details
- Verify your account for security
- Deposit funds via card, bank, or crypto
- Exchange to Japanese yen within the app
- Start spending or transferring—in-store, online, or globally
Jeton combines user-friendly design with advanced personalization, making it a top choice for managing money abroad.
How to Use Jeton Wallet and Jeton Card in Japan?
Are you traveling or conducting business in Japan? Jeton makes managing your money smoother.
With Jeton Wallet, you can:
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Deposit money via bank transfers, debit/credit cards, or even cryptocurrency
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Exchange into yen instantly with competitive rates
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Make cashless payments in shops, restaurants, or online
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Send or receive money across borders quickly
You can use Jeton Wallet in Japan easily!
With the Jeton Card, you can:
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Pay in Japanese yen both online and in-store
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Withdraw cash at ATMs
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Control spending via the Jeton app
Whether you’re a traveler or a business operator in Japan, Jeton provides the security, speed, and flexibility you need.
How to Send Money to Japan with Jeton
Sending money abroad can be costly and time-consuming with traditional banks. Jeton changes the game:
- Low-cost transfers compared to traditional methods
- Fast processing, often in minutes
- Transparent exchange rates so you know exactly what you’re paying
Whether sending money to family, friends, or business partners in Japan, Jeton ensures your funds arrive safely and affordably.
If you want to learn more about sending and receiving money in Japan, make sure to check out:
Wrapping Up
The Japanese yen is more than just Japan’s national currency; it’s a global financial powerhouse with deep cultural roots. From its fascinating history to its advanced security features, the yen continues to play a vital role worldwide.
But when it comes to using yen—whether buying, exchanging, or sending money—digital solutions like Jeton Wallet and Jeton Card offer unmatched convenience. With Jeton, you can manage yen securely, quickly, and at lower costs than traditional banks.
Ready to take your finances to the next level? Open a Jeton account today and download the Jeton app via Google Play or the App Store. Experience a smarter, faster, and safer way to manage money in Japan and beyond.
