06/19/2026
Here are some interesting facts about the Japanese currency, the Japanese yen (JPY):
1. The yen is Japan's official currency.
It is issued by the Bank of Japan, Japan's central bank.
2. "Yen" means "round object."
The word comes from the Japanese pronunciation of the character 円, reflecting the adoption of round coins during modernization in the 19th century.
3. The yen was introduced in 1871.
It replaced a complex feudal monetary system as part of reforms during the Meiji Restoration.
4. Its currency code is JPY.
In international finance and foreign exchange markets, the yen is abbreviated as JPY.
5. Japan uses both coins and banknotes.
Common coins: 1, 5, 10, 50, 100, and 500 yen.
Common banknotes: 1,000, 5,000, and 10,000 yen.
6. The 5-yen coin is considered lucky.
Its pronunciation, "go-en," sounds like a Japanese word meaning a good connection or fortunate relationship.
7. The yen is one of the world's most traded currencies.
Along with the U.S. dollar and euro, it is a major currency in global foreign exchange markets.
8. Japan redesigned its banknotes in 2024.
The new notes feature prominent Japanese historical figures, including Eiichi Shibusawa, Umeko Tsuda, and Shibasaburo Kitasato.
9. The yen symbol is ¥.
It resembles the Chinese yuan symbol because both currencies share the same character origin.
10. The 1-yen coin can float on water.
Made of lightweight aluminum, it weighs only 1 gram and can float if placed carefully on the water's surface.
Fun fact: A 10,000-yen note is worth roughly tens of U.S. dollars, making it Japan's highest-denomination commonly circulating banknote. Exchange rates change daily.
