Fukuoka

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Currency Denominations

Sections

Currency Used in Fukuoka, Japan

The official currency of Japan, including Fukuoka, is the Japanese Yen (ยฅ), abbreviated as JPY. The yen is widely used across all transactions, from large purchases to small daily expenses.

Currency Denominations

Japanese currency is divided into coins and bills, with the following denominations:

Coins

  1. 1 yen (ยฅ1): Made of lightweight aluminum, this is the smallest denomination. It is often used for small change but may not be accepted in vending machines.
  2. 5 yen (ยฅ5): Made of brass and has a hole in the center. It is considered lucky in Japanese culture because the pronunciation of "5 yen" (go-en) sounds like "good fortune" or "destiny" in Japanese.
  3. 10 yen (ยฅ10): Made of bronze, this coin is commonly used for small purchases.
  4. 50 yen (ยฅ50): Made of cupronickel and also has a hole in the center. It is another lucky coin due to its association with good fortune.
  5. 100 yen (ยฅ100): Made of cupronickel, this is one of the most commonly used coins, equivalent to about 1 USD (depending on exchange rates).
  6. 500 yen (ยฅ500): Made of nickel-brass, this is the highest-value coin and is frequently used for vending machines, transportation, and small purchases.

Bills

  1. 1,000 yen (ยฅ1,000): The most commonly used bill for everyday transactions, such as meals, transportation, and shopping.
  2. 2,000 yen (ยฅ2,000): Rarely seen in circulation, this bill is considered a collector's item. It was issued to commemorate the year 2000 and the Okinawa Summit. You may encounter it occasionally, but it is not widely used.
  3. 5,000 yen (ยฅ5,000): Used for medium-sized purchases, such as dining at a nice restaurant or shopping.
  4. 10,000 yen (ยฅ10,000): The largest denomination bill, often used for larger transactions. It is equivalent to approximately 67 USD (as of October 2023, but exchange rates vary).

How Transactions Are Typically Carried Out

  1. Cash is King: While credit cards and digital payment methods (like PayPay, Suica, or IC cards) are becoming more common in Fukuoka, cash is still the most widely accepted form of payment, especially in smaller shops, local restaurants, and traditional markets.
  2. Exact Change: Japanese people often prefer to pay with exact change. Itโ€™s a good idea to carry a mix of coins and smaller bills for convenience.
  3. Vending Machines and Public Transport: Coins (ยฅ10, ยฅ50, ยฅ100, ยฅ500) and smaller bills (ยฅ1,000) are widely used in vending machines, buses, and trains. ยฅ5,000 and ยฅ10,000 bills may not be accepted in some machines.
  4. Tipping Culture: Tipping is not customary in Japan, including Fukuoka. Attempting to tip may cause confusion or embarrassment. Instead, excellent service is considered standard and included in the price.

Currency Exchange Procedures

If you need to exchange foreign currency for yen, here are the best options in Fukuoka:

  1. Banks: Major banks like Mitsubishi UFJ, Sumitomo Mitsui, and Japan Post Bank offer currency exchange services. Be sure to bring your passport, as it is required for identification.
  2. Currency Exchange Counters: Fukuoka Airport and Hakata Station have currency exchange counters with competitive rates. These are convenient for travelers arriving in the city.
  3. ATMs: Many ATMs in Fukuoka accept foreign cards for cash withdrawals in yen. Look for ATMs at 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, or Lawson convenience stores, as they are foreigner-friendly and offer English-language options.
  4. Hotels: Some larger hotels in Fukuoka may offer currency exchange services, but the rates are often less favorable than banks or ATMs.
  5. Avoid Private Money Changers: Unlike some countries, private money changers are not common in Japan, and itโ€™s safer to use official channels.

Culturally Important Considerations

  1. Handling Money: In Japan, money is treated with respect. When paying, place your cash or card on the small tray provided at the counter instead of handing it directly to the cashier. This is considered polite and professional.
  2. Clean Bills: Japanese people prefer clean, crisp bills. If you receive wrinkled or torn bills, you can exchange them at a bank.
  3. Coin Purses: Many locals use coin purses to organize their coins, as they are frequently used in daily transactions. Consider carrying one to keep your coins handy.
  4. ATMs and Business Hours: While ATMs are widely available, some may have limited operating hours, especially in rural areas or smaller neighborhoods. Plan ahead if you need cash late at night.
  5. Language Barrier: While many ATMs and exchange counters offer English-language options, itโ€™s helpful to know the Japanese word for yen (ๅ††, pronounced "en") and basic phrases like "ryogae" (ไธกๆ›ฟ, meaning currency exchange).

Tips for Using Money in Fukuoka

  1. Carry Cash: Always have some cash on hand, especially when visiting smaller establishments, temples, or rural areas around Fukuoka.
  2. IC Cards for Convenience: Consider purchasing a prepaid IC card like a Suica or Nimoca card. These can be used for public transportation, vending machines, and even some shops and restaurants, reducing the need for cash.
  3. Check Exchange Rates: Before exchanging money, check the current exchange rates to ensure youโ€™re getting a fair deal.
  4. Keep Small Bills and Coins: Many smaller businesses may not have change for large bills like ยฅ10,000, so itโ€™s wise to carry smaller denominations.
  5. Tax-Free Shopping: If youโ€™re a tourist, you can enjoy tax-free shopping at many stores in Fukuoka. Be sure to bring your passport and meet the minimum purchase requirements (usually ยฅ5,000 or more).

By understanding the currency system and cultural practices in Fukuoka, youโ€™ll be well-prepared to handle financial transactions smoothly and respectfully. Enjoy your time in this vibrant city!