Money Through the Ages: A Walk Through Japan’s Currency Museum

Fuhonsen, replicas of which are on display in the museum, were minted in Japan beginning in the latter half of the seventh century.

Chinese coins dating from the Ming Dynasty (1368–1644).

Paper currency was issued by different clans across Japan. A map in the museum shows the notes in circulation in various areas.

Visitors are invited to feel the weight of a traditional ōban gold coin.

The very first banknote to be issued by the Bank of Japan featured Daikokuten, the god of wealth.

The exhibition includes a display of every paper note ever issued by the Bank of Japan.

Paper notes issued by regional clans incorporated sophisticated anticounterfeiting measures.

Feel the weight of ¥100 million in bills—about 10 kilograms. But don't try to take it away!