Buying Japanese yen (JPY)

What currency is used in Japan?

Japan’s currency is the yen, represented by the currency code JPY and the currency symbol, ¥. The yen got its name when Japan moved from oval and square-shaped coins to round coins in the 19th century, as the word ‘yen’ also means ‘circle’ in Japanese.

Where can you buy Japanese yen (JPY)?

There’s no shortage of places to purchase Japanese yen in Australia, with bank branches, currency exchange businesses and online services like Australia Post making it easy to buy. However, each comes with different fees and exchange rates that could affect your travel budget.

How to buy Japanese yen in Australia

Although the process can differ slightly between providers, buying Japanese yen is straightforward in Australia. These are the basic steps involved:

1. Have a valid photo ID, such as a driver’s license or a passport
2. Fund your purchase with cash, a debit card or a credit card
3. Specify the amount you need in Japanese yen and review how much it costs in Australian dollars (AUD)
4. Pay for the Japanese yen in Australian dollars and receive your money

How to buy JPY online

Ordering Japanese yen online is seamless with Australia Post. Just follow these quick steps to get JPY for your journey.

1. Review our exchange rates, place your order online and choose a participating Post Office to collect your cash.
2. After you’ve placed an order, make payment via BPAY, Pay ID or credit card within 24 hours.
3. We'll confirm when your cash is ready. You'll have a week to collect it from your chosen Post Office. Remember to bring your receipt and photo ID.

Where can I exchange AUD for JPY?

Travellers heading to Japan have numerous options for exchanging AUD for JPY. For example, bank branches, currency exchange businesses and various online services make getting the right amount of Japanese yen relatively simple before departure. With 3,200+ participating Post Offices, Australia Post will likely have a location near you.

Why choose a travel money card instead of cash?

Cash is still widely used in Japan, but heading overseas with a prepaid travel money card can offer travellers advantages that make their adventure even better.

Peace of mind: Prepaid travel money cards can enhance financial security, as they’re separate from your everyday bank accounts. You also won’t run the risk of losing cash when you’re on the move, while some prepaid travel cards offer protection against unauthorised transactions.

Budget oversight: Staying on top of your budget isn’t always easy when you’re in a country as vibrant as Japan. However, preloading your card with JPY means you decide how much money you want to spend.

Lock in exchange rates: Loading your prepaid card with Japanese yen locks in the exchange rate. As foreign exchange rates constantly change, you might be able to time your purchase to secure a better deal than when exchanging AUD at a later date.

Trackable spending: Prepaid travel money cards can help travellers keep tabs on their spending. Supported by online features and apps that track purchases, managing your budget is hassle-free.

What is the cheapest way to buy Japanese yen in Australia?

Finding the cheapest way to buy Japanese yen means your AUD will go further once you arrive in Japan. Yet as some currency exchange methods are cheaper than others, researching your options is wise.

Your best option will depend on what’s available in your local area, but buying Japanese yen online usually means better exchange rates and lower fees. See the latest exchange rates with our helpful currency converter.

When is the best time to buy Japanese yen with Australian dollars?

There’s no single best time of the year to purchase Japanese yen with Australian dollars. However, if you have a trip to Japan in the weeks or months ahead, keeping an eye on exchange rates means you might spot a moment when converting currency works in your favour. With a prepaid travel card, you can lock in this rate to maximise value for money.

Helpful money tips for Indonesian adventures

Heading to Japan is hugely exciting, but there are a few monetary quirks you should know about. Consider these tips before departing on your journey:

Cash vs card: While international cards are widely accepted in cities, rural areas and some smaller shops remain cash-only. Carrying at least ¥30,000 in cash can be helpful for cash-only spots. A physical card with a PIN is also essential, as tap-and-go services may not always work. Smartraveller recommends asking your bank whether your cards will work in Japan before you arrive.

No tipping: Tipping is not part of Japanese culture. In fact, leaving a tip can be considered impolite, and some tourists have even had their tips returned. Occasionally, high-end restaurants add a service fee, but additional tipping isn’t expected.

Using ATMs: Not all ATMs accept foreign cards. Travel expert Marnie McLaren from The Japan Concierge suggests using 7-Eleven or Japan Post Bank ATMs, which work with major networks like Visa and Mastercard and are available throughout Japan, including rural areas.

Budget-friendly eating: To save money, eat where the locals do - like stand-up noodle bars or breakfast “Morning Sets” at cafés. According to McLaren, many upscale restaurants offer lunch specials at a fraction of the dinner price.

Travel cards for savings: A prepaid travel card loaded with yen before your trip can help avoid high conversion fees and may be more economical than traditional credit cards.

Buy Japanese yen for your next adventure with Australia Post

Getting the Japanese yen needed for your trip to Japan is simple with Australia Post. Just order foreign cash online or in-store at a participating Post Office.

FAQs - Buying Japanese yen