The redesigned banknotes pay tribute to Japanese capitalism, women's equality and scientific innovation.
Japan has issued its first new banknotes in two decades, with redesigned notes featuring 3D holograms aimed at thwarting counterfeiters.
Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said Wednesday that the redesigned 10,000-yen, 5,000-yen and 1,000-yen notes paid tribute to Japanese capitalism, women's equality and scientific innovation.
“I hope people will like the new banknotes and that they will help boost the Japanese economy,” Kishida told reporters at the Bank of Japan.
The banknotes feature holograms of historical figures whose orientation changes depending on the angle from which they are viewed, which according to Japanese authorities is a world first.
The 10,000 yen note features the image of Eiichi Shibusawa, an industrialist and government official credited with leading Japan's economic modernization during the Meiji era.
The 5,000 yen note depicts Umeko Tsuda, a pioneer in women's education who founded the precursor to Tokyo's Tsuda University.
The 1,000 yen note depicts Shibasaburo Kitasato, a bacteriologist who helped develop a method to prevent tetanus and diphtheria.
Japan, known for its heavy reliance on cash, introduced redesigned banknotes in 2019, giving consumers and businesses five years to prepare.
Banknotes already in circulation will continue to be accepted as valid currency.
Bank of Japan Governor Kazuo Ueda said cash will remain important despite the country's shift toward digital payments, which has lagged behind its developed peers.
“Cash is a secure means of payment that can be used by anyone, anywhere, anytime, and will continue to play an important role,” Ueda said.
The government has said it hopes to print around 7.5 billion new banknotes by March next year.
