Kyoto

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Currency Denominations

An overview of Japan's currency denominations, including coins and banknotes, and their usage in day-to-day transactions.

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Currency Used in Kyoto, Japan

Japan uses the Japanese Yen (JPY) as its official currency. The yen is symbolized as "ยฅ" and is internationally abbreviated as "JPY."

Denominations of Japanese Currency

Japanese currency consists of both coins and bills, with the following denominations:

Coins

  1. 1 yen (ยฅ1) - Made of lightweight aluminum.
  2. 5 yen (ยฅ5) - Made of brass and has a hole in the center. It is considered lucky in Japanese culture.
  3. 10 yen (ยฅ10) - Made of bronze.
  4. 50 yen (ยฅ50) - Made of cupronickel and has a hole in the center.
  5. 100 yen (ยฅ100) - Made of cupronickel.
  6. 500 yen (ยฅ500) - Made of nickel-brass and is one of the highest-value coins in the world.

Bills

  1. 1,000 yen (ยฅ1,000) - Commonly used for small purchases.
  2. 2,000 yen (ยฅ2,000) - Rarely seen in circulation but still valid. It is often considered a collector's item.
  3. 5,000 yen (ยฅ5,000) - Used for medium-sized transactions.
  4. 10,000 yen (ยฅ10,000) - The largest denomination, equivalent to approximately $67 USD (as of October 2023).

Conversion Considerations

  • The exchange rate fluctuates, so check the current rate before exchanging money. As of October 2023, 1 USD โ‰ˆ 150 JPY, but this can vary.
  • Currency conversion apps like XE or OANDA can help you calculate real-time rates.
  • Be aware that exchange rates at airports and hotels may be less favorable than at banks or currency exchange offices.

Practical Examples of Costs in Kyoto

Here are some typical costs to help you budget your trip:

  1. Transportation:

    • Kyoto City Bus fare: ยฅ230 per ride (flat rate within the city center).
    • Kyoto Subway: ยฅ210โ€“ยฅ350 per ride, depending on the distance.
    • One-day bus pass: ยฅ700 (unlimited rides for a day).

  2. Food:

    • Bowl of ramen: ยฅ800โ€“ยฅ1,200.
    • Traditional Kyoto kaiseki meal: ยฅ5,000โ€“ยฅ15,000.
    • Convenience store bento box: ยฅ500โ€“ยฅ800.

  3. Attractions:

    • Entry to Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion): ยฅ400.
    • Entry to Fushimi Inari Shrine: Free.
    • Tea ceremony experience: ยฅ2,000โ€“ยฅ5,000.

  4. Accommodation:

    • Budget hostel: ยฅ2,500โ€“ยฅ4,000 per night.
    • Mid-range hotel: ยฅ8,000โ€“ยฅ15,000 per night.
    • Luxury ryokan (traditional inn): ยฅ30,000+ per night.

How to Exchange Currency in Kyoto

  1. At the Airport:

    • Kansai International Airport (KIX) and Osaka Itami Airport (ITM) have currency exchange counters. Rates may not be the best but are convenient for immediate needs.

  2. Banks:

    • Major banks like Mitsubishi UFJ, Mizuho, and SMBC offer currency exchange services. Bring your passport for identification.

  3. Currency Exchange Offices:

    • Specialized exchange offices, such as Travelex or Sakura Exchange, are available in Kyoto Station and tourist areas. They often have better rates than banks.

  4. ATMs:

    • ATMs at 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, and Lawson convenience stores accept international cards (Visa, Mastercard, etc.) and allow you to withdraw yen directly. Be aware of your home bank's fees.

  5. Hotels:

    • Some high-end hotels offer currency exchange services, but rates may not be competitive.

Cultural and Practical Tips for Handling Money in Kyoto

  1. Cash is King:

    • While credit cards are increasingly accepted in Kyoto, especially in tourist areas, many smaller shops, restaurants, and temples still operate on a cash-only basis. Always carry enough cash for small purchases.

  2. Clean and Organized Bills:

    • Japanese people value cleanliness and order, even with money. Try to keep your bills flat and unwrinkled. Wallets with separate compartments for bills and coins are common.

  3. Use of Coins:

    • Coins are widely used in Japan, so itโ€™s helpful to carry a small coin purse. Youโ€™ll often need coins for vending machines, public transportation, and temple donations.

  4. Tipping Culture:

    • Tipping is not customary in Japan and can even be considered rude. Exceptional service is already included in the price, so thereโ€™s no need to leave extra money.

  5. Exact Change:

    • Japanese cashiers appreciate exact change, so try to use your coins when possible. However, they are also very patient and will happily count out change for you.

  6. Receipts:

    • You will always be given a receipt, even for small purchases. Itโ€™s polite to accept it, even if you donโ€™t need it.

  7. Vending Machines:

    • Japan is famous for its vending machines, which accept coins and small bills (ยฅ1,000). They are a convenient way to buy drinks or snacks while exploring Kyoto.

  8. IC Cards:

    • Consider getting a prepaid IC card like Suica or ICOCA. These cards can be loaded with yen and used for public transportation, vending machines, and even some shops and restaurants.

Summary

  • The Japanese yen (JPY) is used in Kyoto, with coins ranging from ยฅ1 to ยฅ500 and bills from ยฅ1,000 to ยฅ10,000.
  • Cash is widely used, so always carry enough yen, especially for small businesses and transportation.
  • Exchange currency at banks, exchange offices, or ATMs for the best rates.
  • Be mindful of cultural practices, such as not tipping and keeping your money organized.
  • Familiarize yourself with typical costs in Kyoto to budget effectively.

By understanding these details, youโ€™ll be well-prepared to handle money confidently during your time in Kyoto. Enjoy your visit to this beautiful and historic city!