Planning a Holiday to Japan? Here's What You Need to Know About the Japanese Yen
26/05/2025
If you're dreaming of cherry blossoms, sushi trains, and neon-lit nights in Tokyo, you're not alone. Holidays to Japan continue to top travel bucket lists around the world and for good reason. But before you get swept up in the excitement of bullet trains and bowing deer, there’s one essential thing to tick off your list: your travel money.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveller, at Hays Travel, we’re here to help you buy Japanese Yen the smart way. So you can focus on the fun stuff, like planning your first ramen stop.
So, what’s the deal with the Japanese Yen?
The Japanese Yen (JPY) is the official currency of Japan, and unlike some currencies, it doesn’t use decimals like US dollars or pounds. That’s right—there are no cents or pence. So, if you’re wondering why things cost thousands of Yen, don’t panic. ¥1,000 is roughly around £5–6 (exchange rates vary), so once you get used to the numbers, it’s easy to manage.
In short, if you’re seeing a lot of zeros when you exchange your pounds to yen, it’s not because you’re suddenly rich—it’s just how the currency works. But hey, we can dream.
💡 Top Tip: Need help converting Yen to Pounds on the go? Pop into your nearest Hays Travel branch for expert advice or use our online currency rate calculator.
Do I really need cash in Japan?
Short answer: Yes... And that surprises a lot of people.
Japan may be one of the most technologically advanced countries in the world. But it's still surprisingly cash-friendly. Many smaller shops, local restaurants, temples, and even some taxis and train stations only accept cash. This is where it pays (literally) to buy Japanese Yen before you fly. We recommend avoiding the hassle of hunting down ATMs or paying extra fees overseas by sorting your foreign exchange at home. Plus, you’ll often find great rates on Japanese Yen if you plan ahead.
💡 You can order your Yen online now and collect at your local Hays Travel branch at a time that suits you – quick, easy, and secure.
How much Japanese Yen should I take?
The age-old question for travellers everywhere. How much Japanese Yen should I take on holiday to Japan? It depends on how you travel. Public transport is affordable, street food is delicious and cheap, and convenience stores are full of tasty surprises. But even if you’re planning a splurge or two, Japan offers great value if you manage your money right.
Here’s a rough daily budget based on travel style:
• Budget explorer: ¥6,000–8,000/day (around £30–£40)
• Mid-range traveller: ¥10,000–15,000/day (£50–£75)
• Luxury seeker: ¥20,000–30,000+/day (£100–£150+)
💡 Remember: Japan is super safe, so carrying cash isn’t nearly as risky as it might feel elsewhere.
Pro tips for handling your travel money in Japan
💡 Buy Japanese Yen before you travel to avoid poor airport rates or sketchy exchange counters.
💡 Keep some small denominations for vending machines, lockers, and train tickets.
💡 Don't assume everyone takes card payments, even if you're in Tokyo.
💡 Sick of loose leftover cash when you get home? Buy your travel money with Hays Travel and opt into our buy back guarantee (and maybe turn that spare change into a future flight fund).
💡 Want a mix of cash and card? The Hays Travel Currency Card is perfect for secure spending abroad. Simply load Japanese Yen directly and manage it on the go!
Say konnichiwa to Japan and goodbye to currency confusion!
By planning ahead and getting your foreign exchange sorted with Hays Travel, you’ll have more time (and money) to enjoy everything the Land of the Rising Sun has to offer. From sipping sake under cherry blossoms to navigating Tokyo’s buzzing streets, travel smarter with Hays Travel’s money experts by your side.