Japan has begun circulating its first new banknotes in 20 years, featuring advanced holographic technology to combat counterfeiting. The new 10,000-yen, 5,000-yen, and 1,000-yen notes showcase three-dimensional portraits of prominent figures in Japanese history, including Eiichi Shibusawa, Umeko Tsuda, and Shibasaburo Kitasato.
These banknotes employ a unique printed pattern that generates holograms of the portraits facing different directions depending on the viewing angle, a world-first technology for paper money. The Bank of Japan aims to print approximately 7.5 billion of these newly designed bills by the end of the fiscal year.
While existing bills remain in circulation, businesses and consumers are adjusting to the new notes. The government is also encouraging a shift towards cashless payments to enhance productivity.
