Kobe
Currency Denominations
An introduction to Japanese yen denominations (both coins and bills) to help visitors familiarize themselves with local currency.
Sections
Currency Overview
The official currency of Japan, including Kobe, is the Japanese Yen (ยฅ), symbolized as "ยฅ" and abbreviated as "JPY." The yen is widely used across the country, and Kobe is no exception. It is a cash-friendly city, though credit cards are increasingly accepted in urban areas.
Currency Denominations
Banknotes
Japanese yen banknotes come in four denominations:
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ยฅ1,000 (Ichiman-en)
- Color: Blue
- Common Use: Everyday transactions, such as meals, transportation, and small purchases.
- Note: This is the most commonly used banknote for daily expenses.
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ยฅ2,000 (Nisen-en)
- Color: Green
- Common Use: Rarely seen in circulation. It is more of a collectorโs item or used in specific regions.
- Tip: Donโt be surprised if shopkeepers or vending machines hesitate to accept this note.
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ยฅ5,000 (Gosen-en)
- Color: Purple
- Common Use: Mid-range purchases, such as dining at a nice restaurant or buying gifts.
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ยฅ10,000 (Ichiman-en)
- Color: Brown
- Common Use: High-value transactions, such as hotel stays or large shopping bills.
- Tip: While widely accepted, some smaller shops or taxis may not have enough change for this denomination, so carry smaller notes.
Coins
Japanese yen coins come in six denominations:
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ยฅ1 (Ichi-en)
- Material: Aluminum
- Common Use: Small change, vending machines, or rounding off totals.
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ยฅ5 (Go-en)
- Material: Brass, with a hole in the center
- Common Use: Symbolically considered lucky in Japanese culture. Often used in offerings at shrines.
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ยฅ10 (Juu-en)
- Material: Bronze
- Common Use: Small purchases, vending machines, or public transportation.
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ยฅ50 (Gojuu-en)
- Material: Nickel, with a hole in the center
- Common Use: Similar to ยฅ10 but less common.
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ยฅ100 (Hyaku-en)
- Material: Nickel
- Common Use: Very common for vending machines, convenience stores, and small purchases.
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ยฅ500 (Gohyaku-en)
- Material: Nickel-brass
- Common Use: High-value coin, often used for larger vending machine purchases or quick transactions.
Tips for Using Currency in Kobe
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Cash is King
- While Kobe is a modern city, cash is still widely used, especially in smaller shops, local restaurants, and markets. Always carry some cash, particularly coins, for convenience.
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Credit Cards and Digital Payments
- Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, JCB, and American Express) are accepted in most hotels, department stores, and chain restaurants.
- Digital payment systems like Suica, Pasmo, and PayPay are gaining popularity, especially for transportation and convenience stores.
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Vending Machines
- Kobe, like the rest of Japan, has vending machines everywhere. These machines accept coins (ยฅ10, ยฅ50, ยฅ100, ยฅ500) and sometimes ยฅ1,000 notes.
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Exact Change
- Japanese people value efficiency, so try to provide exact change when possible. This is especially appreciated in busy places like train stations or small shops.
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Tipping Culture
- Tipping is not customary in Japan and can even be considered rude. Instead, excellent service is expected as part of the culture.
Exchanging Foreign Currency
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Where to Exchange Money
- Banks: Major banks in Kobe, such as Mitsubishi UFJ or Sumitomo Mitsui, offer currency exchange services.
- Currency Exchange Counters: Found at Kansai International Airport (KIX) and in Kobeโs Sannomiya area.
- ATMs: International ATMs, such as those at 7-Eleven, Lawson, or Japan Post, allow you to withdraw yen directly using a foreign debit or credit card.
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Exchange Rates
- Rates at airports and hotels may be less favorable than at banks or ATMs. Check rates online before exchanging.
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Documents Needed
- Bring your passport when exchanging money at banks or currency exchange counters.
Approximate Costs for Everyday Items in Kobe
Hereโs a rough guide to help you budget for your trip:
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Public Transportation:
- Subway or bus ride: ยฅ200โยฅ400
- JR train ride to nearby cities: ยฅ500โยฅ1,500
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Food and Dining:
- Bowl of ramen: ยฅ800โยฅ1,200
- Kobe beef meal (mid-range): ยฅ5,000โยฅ10,000
- Convenience store bento: ยฅ500โยฅ800
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Attractions:
- Kobe Port Tower entry: ยฅ700
- Nunobiki Herb Garden cable car: ยฅ1,500 (round trip)
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Shopping:
- Souvenirs: ยฅ500โยฅ2,000
- Clothing (mid-range): ยฅ3,000โยฅ10,000
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Accommodation:
- Budget hotel: ยฅ5,000โยฅ8,000 per night
- Mid-range hotel: ยฅ10,000โยฅ20,000 per night
Cultural Considerations
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Clean and Organized Money Handling
- Japanese people handle money with care. When paying, place cash or coins on the provided tray rather than handing it directly to the cashier.
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Lucky Coins
- The ยฅ5 coin is considered lucky because its pronunciation, "go-en," sounds like the word for "good fortune" or "destiny." Itโs often used in religious offerings at shrines.
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Avoid Folding Banknotes
- Keep your banknotes neat and unfolded. Wallets with compartments for bills and coins are common in Japan.
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Language Barrier
- While many cashiers in Kobe may not speak fluent English, they are accustomed to serving tourists. Pointing to the amount on the register or using a calculator to show the total is common.
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Tax-Free Shopping
- Many stores in Kobe offer tax-free shopping for tourists. Look for the "Tax-Free" sign and bring your passport to qualify for the refund.
Final Tips
- Always carry a mix of coins and smaller banknotes for convenience.
- Use international ATMs for better exchange rates compared to currency exchange counters.
- Familiarize yourself with the look and feel of Japanese yen to avoid confusion.
- Respect local customs when handling money, and enjoy the seamless efficiency of Kobeโs payment systems.
By understanding these details, youโll be well-prepared to navigate Kobeโs vibrant streets and enjoy its unique culture without any monetary hiccups!