It’s a common question for travellers, can you spend Australian dollars directly in Japan? The short answer is no. Shops, restaurants, and attractions in Japan only accept the official currency, the Japanese yen (JPY). Even in popular tourist areas like Tokyo or Kyoto, foreign cash like AUD won’t be accepted. You’ll need to exchange Australian dollars to yen before you travel or withdraw yen once you arrive. Carrying yen cash is especially useful for public transport, smaller stores, rural areas, and even some traditional inns, where card payments may not be accepted.
The Japanese Yen (JPY) is Japan’s official currency and the third most traded currency in the world. It is accepted everywhere across Japan – from bustling cities like Tokyo and Osaka to rural areas and small restaurants. While foreign cards and debit cards are increasingly accepted in bigger cities, many shops, temples, and traditional markets still rely on cash. The yen comes in both yen coins (¥1, ¥5, ¥10, ¥50, ¥100, ¥500) and yen notes (¥1,000, ¥2,000, ¥5,000, ¥10,000). You’ll often find yourself using coins for public transport, vending machines, and small restaurants, so it’s a good idea to carry […]
Country Japan Official Currency Japanese yen Currency Code JPY Currency Symbol ¥ Banknote Denominations ¥1,000, ¥5,000 and €10,000 Coin Denominations ¥1, ¥5, ¥10, ¥20, ¥50, ¥100 and ¥500 In Stock Yes Current Rate
The official currency of Japan is the yen, represented by the symbol ¥ and the currency code JPY. Other less common symbols include 円 and 圓. It is the third most traded currency worldwide and a recognised foreign currency across Asia and beyond. Prices in Japan are often displayed with the ¥ symbol followed by the amount. The currency is commonly used in both cash transactions and card payments, but cash is still king, especially in rural areas and at smaller stores or food stalls.
