Buy Japanese yen online
Our currency calculator is a quick and easy way to check our latest foreign currency exchange rates.
Why buy Japanese yen from M&S Bank?
When you visit Japan you are likely to experience a blend of tradition and cutting-edge modernity.
If you are planning a trip to Japan, we offer a number of benefits when you buy Japanese yen from M&S Bank.
- Our stores are open 7 days a week†
- Buy Japanese yen online and collect from your local Bureau de Change
- Exchange any leftover currency when you return using our buy back service
JPY Japanese yen exchange rate
The exchange rate may differ depending on the day you order your currency.
Find today’s Japanese yen exchange rate here. Or use our Japanese yen converter to see how much you could get for your pound.
How to sell back Japanese yen
Do you have left over Japanese yen from your recent trip? We can buy back foreign currency from you.
How to order Japanese yen
Our in-store and online services make ordering your Japanese yen simple:
- Order your Japanese yen online with our Click & Collect currency service. Choose your collection date and collect from your local Bureau de Change.
- Or visit your local Bureau de Change to buy Japanese yen*. You can find our Bureaux de Change in M&S stores nationwide. Many are open seven days a week late into the evening, so you can buy your Japanese yen at a time that suits you.
Countries that accept Japanese yen
Japan is the only country to use Japanese yen (JPY) as its official currency.
If you’re thinking about braving the long journey to Japan, bear in mind that you may have a layover in another country. You won’t be able to pay in Japanese yen outside of Japan, so make sure you have the right currency to buy a cup of coffee if you’re waiting around in an airport.
Why visit Japan?
From traditional tea ceremonies and historic landmarks like Kyoto’s Kinkaku-ji Temple, to the neon arcades of Akihabara, there are plenty of places to visit in Japan.
But whether you’re having lunch near the Tokyo Imperial Palace or exploring the food stalls in Osaka’s Dotonbori district, there’s a good chance you’ll need to pay with cash.
Japan is still largely a cash-based society and it’s a good idea to have some Japanese currency on hand, especially if you’re visiting local markets or rural areas.
With our currency converter, you can see how much Japanese yen your money will buy to help you plan out the perfect trip.
Japanese yen facts and history
We can represent Japanese yen by using the ¥ symbol. The Japanese yen was introduced in Japan’s Meiji era, where Japan went through rapid modernisation. The Japanese yen was officially adopted in 1871, using the decimal system to make trade smoother with the West.
Today, the Japanese yen is the third most exchanged currency in the foreign exchange market, after the United States dollar (USD) and the euro (EUR). Japan uses coins for smaller denominations, while bank notes are used for larger denominations.
You can find bank notes in the following denominations:
- 1,000 JPY
- 2,000 JPY
- 5,000 JPY
- 10,000 JPY
You can buy Japanese yen online using our Click & Collect service.
Frequently asked questions
How expensive is Japan?
How expensive you find Japan will depend on where you go.
For example, a bottle of water can cost:
- 121 JPY in Osaka
- 121 JPY in Kyoto
- 119 JPY in Tokyo
- 109 JPY in Nagoya
- 100 JPY in Aomori
- 100 JPY in Nagasaki
Major cities like Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka will generally be more expensive than smaller towns so you may need more yen if you’re visiting them.
You can use our currency converter to find the exchange rate for GBP to JPY.
Can you use other currencies in Japan?
Larger businesses usually accept international credit or debit cards, but Japan is still mainly a cash-based society.
In general, Japan only uses Japanese yen. Some hotels or major tourist areas might accept other currencies, but it’s best to have local currency so you always have a way to pay.
Do you need a visa to visit Japan?
If you’re a UK citizen, you can visit Japan for up to 90 days without a visa. If you want to stay a little longer you’ll need to apply for an appropriate visa. You should always research the most up to date visa guidelines before planning a trip.
Other passport holders should check the entry requirements with your embassy, ideally in plenty of time before you travel.
Should you tip in Japan?
Most Japanese restaurants and businesses believe that good service is part of the experience, so tipping isn’t necessary.
Instead, a polite “thank you” is the best way to show your appreciation for a great meal or excellent service.
What languages are spoken in Japan?
The official language of Japan is Japanese.
In major cities and tourist areas, you’ll usually find someone who can speak basic English, but this is far less common in rural areas.
What is the latest government travel advice for Japan?
Japan is generally considered a very safe place to visit. Before you go, make sure you’re up to date on Japan’s entry requirements and local laws so you don’t run into any trouble while you’re over there.
You can also visit the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) for the latest government travel advice for Japan.
When is the best time of year to visit Japan?
Spring (March to May) is considered one of the best times to visit Japan because of the famous cherry blossom season. The weather is also mild and comfortable, making it perfect for outdoor activities.
If you’re planning a skiing holiday, Mount Fuji opens for skiing in spring. Skiing season lasts from mid-April until early summer.
Summer (June to August) has exciting festivals known as “matsuri”. In these festivals, you can watch traditional performances, parades and firework displays. The Gion Matsuri in Kyoto runs in July and is one of the largest festivals in Japan.
However, summers in Japan are hot and humid. Staying hydrated and wearing light clothing is a must.
Important documents
M&S Travel Money Terms and Conditions (opens in a new window)
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Other popular currencies
If you are planning a future holiday or a trip that takes in multiple destinations, these other currencies may be useful:
US dollar
Mexican peso
Swiss Francs
*Subject to availability
† Subject to store opening hours