Hiroshima

๐Ÿ’ด

Local Currency

Sections

1. Local Currency Overview

  • Currency Name: Japanese Yen (JPY, symbol: ยฅ)
  • Denominations:
    • Coins: ยฅ1, ยฅ5, ยฅ10, ยฅ50, ยฅ100, ยฅ500
    • Banknotes: ยฅ1,000, ยฅ2,000 (rare), ยฅ5,000, ยฅ10,000
  • Exchange Rate: The exchange rate fluctuates daily. As of late 2023, ยฅ1 is approximately equal to 0.0067 USD or 0.0063 EUR. Check real-time rates before exchanging money.

2. Exchange and Obtaining Currency

Where to Exchange Money

  • Airports: Hiroshima Airport has currency exchange counters, but rates may not be as favorable as in the city.
  • Banks: Major banks in Hiroshima, such as Mitsubishi UFJ or Sumitomo Mitsui, offer currency exchange services. Note that banks are typically open from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM on weekdays and are closed on weekends and public holidays.
  • Post Offices: Many post offices in Japan offer currency exchange services, often with competitive rates.
  • Currency Exchange Counters: Look for Travelex or other exchange services in Hiroshimaโ€™s city center or near major train stations like Hiroshima Station.
  • ATMs: ATMs at convenience stores (7-Eleven, Lawson, FamilyMart) and international banks (e.g., Citibank) allow you to withdraw yen using foreign debit or credit cards. These ATMs often have English-language options.

Tips for Exchanging Money

  • Bring crisp, undamaged foreign currency, as some exchange services may reject worn or torn bills.
  • Keep your passport handy, as it may be required for currency exchange.
  • Compare rates at different locations to get the best deal.

3. Cash vs. Cards

Cash

  • Cash is King: Japan, including Hiroshima, is still a cash-centric society, especially for small businesses, local restaurants, temples, and public transportation.
  • Coins: Coins are widely used, so carry a small coin purse to manage them.
  • Where Cash is Preferred:
    • Local markets and street vendors
    • Small restaurants and izakayas (Japanese pubs)
    • Public transportation (buses, trams)
    • Entry fees for temples, shrines, and smaller attractions

Cards

  • Credit/Debit Cards: Cards are increasingly accepted in Hiroshima, especially at larger establishments like hotels, department stores, and chain restaurants. Visa, Mastercard, and JCB are the most widely accepted.
  • IC Cards: Prepaid transportation cards like ICOCA or Suica can also be used for small purchases at convenience stores, vending machines, and some shops.
  • Tips for Card Use:
    • Inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid card blocks.
    • Check for foreign transaction fees with your card provider.
    • Always carry some cash as a backup, as not all places accept cards.

4. Common Costs in Hiroshima

Hereโ€™s a breakdown of typical costs to help you budget:

  • Transportation:
    • Tram ride: ยฅ190โ€“ยฅ280 (flat fare within the city center)
    • Hiroshima Electric Railway (Hiroden) day pass: ยฅ600
    • Taxi start fare: ยฅ650โ€“ยฅ700
  • Food:
    • Bowl of ramen: ยฅ800โ€“ยฅ1,200
    • Okonomiyaki (local specialty): ยฅ1,000โ€“ยฅ1,500
    • Sushi meal: ยฅ2,000โ€“ยฅ5,000
  • Attractions:
    • Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum: ยฅ200
    • Miyajima ferry (round trip): ยฅ360โ€“ยฅ500
    • Hiroshima Castle entry: ยฅ370
  • Accommodation:
    • Budget hotel: ยฅ5,000โ€“ยฅ8,000 per night
    • Mid-range hotel: ยฅ10,000โ€“ยฅ15,000 per night
    • Ryokan (traditional inn): ยฅ15,000โ€“ยฅ30,000 per night (including meals)

5. Cultural Practices and Money Etiquette

  • Handling Money:
    • Always place cash or cards on the small tray provided at the counter, rather than handing them directly to the cashier.
    • When receiving change, accept it with both hands as a sign of respect.
  • Tipping:
    • Tipping is not customary in Japan and may even be considered rude. Exceptional service is expected as part of the culture.
    • Instead of tipping, express your gratitude verbally or with a small gift if appropriate.
  • Receipts:
    • Receipts are often provided automatically, even for small purchases. Keep them for your records or tax purposes if needed.
  • Exact Change:
    • Japanese people appreciate exact change, so try to use coins whenever possible.

6. Additional Tips

  • Vending Machines: Hiroshima, like the rest of Japan, has vending machines everywhere. They accept coins and small bills (ยฅ1,000 notes).
  • Convenience Stores: Stores like 7-Eleven, Lawson, and FamilyMart are great for withdrawing cash, buying snacks, or paying bills. They are open 24/7 and accept both cash and cards.
  • Tax-Free Shopping: Many stores in Hiroshima offer tax-free shopping for tourists. Look for the โ€œTax-Freeโ€ sign and bring your passport to qualify for the refund (usually for purchases over ยฅ5,000).

By understanding these aspects of Hiroshimaโ€™s currency and money practices, youโ€™ll be well-prepared to navigate the city with confidence. Let me know if you need further assistance with planning your trip!