Buy Japanese Yen (JPY)

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Buy Japanese Yen (JPY) before your trip to Japan

Travelling to Japan means discovering a mix of bustling metropolises, nature, snow-capped mountains and peaceful villages. This country, also known for its technological advances, promises a spectacular journey. However, it is important to understand how the local currency works in your destination to ensure you're well prepared. The local currency in Japan is the Japanese Yen (JPY). For certain purchases and activities, having cash on hand will be useful. Although card payments are becoming more common, cash is still king in Japan. That’s why it’s advisable to carry enough Japanese Yen in cash. We recommend planning your travel budget before departure, so you can estimate your expenses and the amount of EUR to JPY you’ll need to convert.

Budgeting for Japan

It’s worth knowing that tipping a waiter directly in Japan is considered impolite. However, giving it to the owner to pass on is appreciated.

You should plan a daily budget for your trip including accommodation, meals, transport, activities and a few souvenirs. Expect to spend around 1350 JPY for a night in a hotel, about 5400 JPY on meals, 2000 JPY on public transport, and approximately 2700 JPY for museum entries.

1350 JPY
Average cost of one night’s stay

5400 JPY
Average daily food budget per person

Good to know

A few price examples in Japan

199 - 300 JPY
A single metro ticket

250 JPY
A cup of coffee

27,000 JPY
A 7-day Japan Rail (JR) Pass

500 JPY
A serving of takoyaki

400 JPY
A taxi ride

620 JPY
Entry to the Tokyo National Museum

BUY JAPANESE YEN

Travel tips for your stay in Japan

Kyoto remains the cultural, artistic and intellectual capital of Japan. There, you can visit the Golden Pavilion, Nijo Castle and the geisha district. You might also head to Nara to explore its historical landmarks.

In Kanazawa, you'll discover the beautiful traditional gardens you’ve heard so much about. A silk kimono from the region makes for a lovely souvenir. Don’t miss Kenrokuen Garden, considered one of Japan’s three most beautiful gardens.

Renting a car allows you to travel further and admire the country’s dramatic landscapes, such as the Japanese Alps on your way to Gokayama.

For mountain sports enthusiasts, Hakuba is a popular ski resort worth visiting.

One city with an old soul, spared from Tokyo’s great fire, also deserves your time while you’re there.

About Japanese Yen

Japanese Yen denominations

Banknotes: 1000 JPY, 2000 JPY, 5000 JPY, 10000 JPY
Coins: 1 JPY, 5 JPY, 10 JPY, 50 JPY, 100 JPY, 500 JPY

The word "yen" comes from a mispronunciation of 円, which is pronounced “en” or “enne.” It was a misinterpretation between the old Sino-Japanese writing and pronunciation.

The reverse of the 5000 yen note features the painting Kakitsubata Flowers by Ōgata Kōrin.

Why buy Japanese Yen (JPY) from ChangeGroup?

ChangeGroup has currency exchange offices worldwide, including several in France. We offer competitive rates for your transactions before you head off on holiday. Before exchanging euros for yen, check the exchange rate on the ChangeGroup website to secure the best deal. Online orders benefit from better rates, and you can opt for secure home delivery for just €15.95, saving you a trip to a bureau de change.

If you return from your trip with leftover yen, you can take advantage of our Buy-Back guarantee for only €6.95, allowing you to sell your unused currency back to us at the original purchase rate.