Japan Introduces New Banknotes for the First Time in 20 Years

The Bank of Japan has unveiled new banknotes, marking the first change in the design of the yen (Japan's official currency) in 20 years. This was announced on July 3 by the regulator's press service.

According to NHK, the new banknotes are equipped with 3-D hologram technology to combat counterfeiting. A new type of special imagery has also been introduced on the banknotes, making them more difficult to forge.

The 10,000 yen note features businessman Shibusawa Eiichi, who is celebrated as the father of Japanese capitalism. The 5,000 yen note depicts educator Tsuda Umeko, one of the first women to study abroad. The 1,000 yen note showcases bacteriologist Kitasato Shibasaburo, who developed treatment methods for tetanus.

The Japanese government and the bank plan to print 7.48 billion new banknotes by March of next year.