Counterfeit currency is not a widespread problem in Japan, and cases are relatively rare compared to many other countries.

Japan is known for its low crime rates, and the country has strict laws and advanced technology to prevent and detect counterfeit notes.

The Bank of Japan also provides information on how to identify genuine Japanese Bank Notes

Rest assured that encountering counterfeit currency in Japan is quite unlikely, and you can feel confident using cash during your stay in the country.

Watermark:

A portrait watermark of Shotoku Taishi appears when held up to the light.

Ultrafine-line Printing:

Intricate fine lines that are hard to replicate.

Hologram:

Tilt the note to see color and pattern changes.

Watermark-bar-pattern:

When held up to the light, three vertical watermark bars become visible.

Latent Image:

View from an angle to see the number “10000” on the front and “NIPPON” (Japan) on the back.

Security Features of
10,000 Yen Note

Image Source: Bank of Japan

Pearl Ink:

Semi-transparent pink pearl ink in the margins.

Microprinting:

Tiny “NIPPON GINKO” (Bank of Japan) letters.

Luminescent Ink:

Governor’s seal glows orange under UV light.

Intaglio Printing:

Raised ink for tactile feel.

Tactile Marks:

Rough texture for visually impaired recognition.

Low Risks In Japan

Despite these cases, the overall incidence of counterfeit currency in Japan remains low.

Reporting Incident

If you do happen to receive a suspicious note in Japan, you can take it to a bank or a police station for verification.

The Bank of Japan

The country's central bank, works closely with law enforcement agencies to monitor and prevent the circulation of counterfeit notes.

20 Methods to Identify Genuine Japanese Yen Banknotes and Detect Counterfeits

Remember, while these methods can help identify counterfeit Japanese yen banknotes, it's essential to be familiar with the security features of genuine notes and consult with trained professionals or authorities if you suspect a counterfeit.

01

Watermark:

Hold the banknote up to the light to check for a watermark portrait that matches the printed portrait on the bill. The watermark should be visible from both sides.

02

Latent image:

Tilt the banknote to view the latent image, which is hidden within the printed design. The image should become visible when the note is held at a specific angle.

03

Pearl ink:

Look for the pearl ink feature, which appears as a semi-transparent layer with a pearl-like luster. This feature is visible when the banknote is tilted under light.

04

Holographic strip:

The ¥10,000 and ¥5,000 notes have a holographic strip that displays a three-dimensional effect and changes color when tilted.

05

Microprinting:

Check for tiny, printed text on various parts of the banknote. This microprinting should be sharp and clear when magnified.

06

Intaglio printing:

Feel for raised ink on the portrait, lettering, and other design elements. Intaglio printing gives banknotes a distinct tactile texture.

07

Serial numbers:

Verify that the serial numbers are evenly spaced, printed in the same ink color, and do not have any discrepancies or inconsistencies.

08

Luminescent ink:

Some elements on Japanese banknotes, such as the denominational numerals, glow under ultraviolet (UV) light.

09

Security thread:

Look for an embedded security thread that runs vertically through the banknote. This thread should have microprinting and be visible when held up to the light.

10

Ink color consistency:

The ink colors on genuine banknotes should be vivid, consistent, and not appear faded or smudged.

11

Optically variable ink:

The ¥10,000 and ¥5,000 notes have a color-changing foil patch that shifts colors when tilted.

12

Paper texture:

Authentic Japanese banknotes are made from a specific type of paper that feels crisp and slightly rough to the touch.

13

Registration marks:

Check for small registration marks on the front and back of the banknote. These marks should align perfectly when the note is held up to the light.

14

Watermark bar:

In addition to the watermark portrait, look for a vertical watermark bar on the left side of the banknote.

15

Fluorescent fibers:

Under UV light, authentic Japanese banknotes have randomly scattered fluorescent fibers embedded in the paper.

16

Microperforations:

The ¥1,000 note has a series of tiny, perforated holes that form the denomination numeral when held up to the light.

17

Blind marks:

Genuine Japanese banknotes have tactile marks (raised dots) that assist the visually impaired in identifying the denomination.

18

Dimensions:

Familiarize yourself with the standard dimensions of each Japanese banknote denomination to help identify counterfeits that may have inconsistent sizes.

19

Magnetic ink:

Some elements on Japanese banknotes are printed with magnetic ink that can be detected by specialized equipment.

20

Comparison:

Always compare a suspect banknote with a genuine one of the same denomination to help identify any discrepancies or inconsistencies.

Last 20 Counterfeit Currency Cases In Japan

These 20 cases, spanning from 2023 to 2009, demonstrate the ongoing efforts of Japanese law enforcement agencies, financial institutions, businesses, and the public in combating the circulation of counterfeit currency.

While the incidence of counterfeiting remains relatively low in Japan compared to many other countries, these cases highlight the importance of maintaining vigilance, collaboration, and public awareness in detecting and preventing the spread of fake banknotes and coins.


(2023) Counterfeit 10,000-Yen Notes Found in Kanagawa Prefecture

In January 2023, three counterfeit 10,000-yen notes were discovered at a convenience store in Yokohama City, Kanagawa Prefecture. The store clerk noticed the suspicious appearance of the notes and alerted the local police. Upon investigation, the police confirmed that the notes were indeed counterfeits, bearing the same serial number. The authorities believe that the counterfeit notes were likely produced using high-quality printing methods, making them difficult to distinguish from genuine currency at first glance. Investigators are working to trace the origin of the counterfeit notes and identify any individuals involved in their production or circulation. The Kanagawa Prefectural Police have issued a warning to local businesses and residents to be vigilant when handling 10,000-yen notes and to report any suspicious bills to the authorities. This incident serves as a reminder that while counterfeit currency cases are relatively rare in Japan, it is essential for the public to remain cautious and informed about the security features of genuine Japanese banknotes.
Source: Kanagawa Shimbun (In Japanese)

(2022) Man Arrested for Using Counterfeit 5,000-Yen Note in Osaka

In August 2022, a 45-year-old man was arrested in Osaka City for allegedly using a counterfeit 5,000-yen note at a convenience store. The incident occurred when the man attempted to purchase a pack of cigarettes using the counterfeit bill. The store clerk, who had received training on detecting counterfeit currency, immediately noticed that the note appeared suspicious and contacted the police. Osaka Prefectural Police officers arrived at the scene and confirmed that the 5,000-yen note was indeed a counterfeit. Upon questioning, the man claimed that he had received the note as change from another store and was unaware that it was a fake. However, further investigation revealed that the man had a history of involvement in minor offenses. The police are now working to determine the source of the counterfeit note and whether the suspect had any knowledge of its inauthenticity. This case highlights the importance of proper training for store employees in detecting counterfeit currency and the swift action taken by law enforcement to address such incidents.
Source: Mainichi Shimbun - Page No Longer Found

(2021) Counterfeit 1,000-Yen Bills Found in Ehime Prefecture

In July 2021, four counterfeit 1,000-yen bills were discovered at a convenience store in Matsuyama City, Ehime Prefecture. The store manager reported the incident to the local police after noticing that the four bills had the same serial number, raising suspicions about their authenticity. Ehime Prefectural Police launched an investigation and confirmed that the bills were indeed counterfeits. The authorities believe that the counterfeit notes were likely produced using sophisticated printing techniques, as they closely resembled genuine 1,000-yen bills. Investigators are now working to trace the origin of the counterfeit notes and identify any individuals or groups involved in their production or distribution. The police have also alerted local businesses and financial institutions to be vigilant when handling 1,000-yen bills and to report any suspicious notes to the authorities. This incident underscores the ongoing efforts by law enforcement agencies to combat counterfeit currency circulation in Japan and the need for public awareness about the security features of genuine Japanese banknotes.
Source: NHK World-Japan - Page No Longer Found 

(2020) Suspects Arrested for Possessing Counterfeit 10,000-Yen Notes

In October 2020, three suspects were arrested in Nagoya City, Aichi Prefecture, for allegedly possessing 18 counterfeit 10,000-yen notes. The arrests were made following a joint investigation by the Aichi Prefectural Police and the Nagoya Regional Taxation Bureau. The suspects, two men and a woman, were found to have the counterfeit notes in their possession during a search of their residences. According to the police, the counterfeit 10,000-yen notes were of high quality and closely resembled genuine currency, making them difficult to detect through casual inspection. During questioning, the suspects claimed that they had received the counterfeit notes from an acquaintance and were unaware of their inauthenticity. However, investigators believe that the suspects may have been involved in the distribution of the counterfeit currency. The police are now working to trace the source of the counterfeit notes and determine the extent of the suspects' involvement in the case. This incident serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts by law enforcement agencies to crack down on counterfeit currency circulation in Japan and the importance of public vigilance in detecting and reporting suspicious banknotes.
Source: The Japan Times - Page No Longer Found

(2020) Counterfeit 2,000-Yen Notes Found in Shizuoka Prefecture

In September 2020, a counterfeit 2,000-yen note was discovered at a supermarket in Hamamatsu City, Shizuoka Prefecture. The incident occurred when a customer attempted to pay for their groceries using the counterfeit note. The cashier, who had received training on detecting counterfeit currency, noticed that the note felt unusual and had a slightly different appearance compared to genuine 2,000-yen bills. The store manager contacted the local police, who confirmed that the note was indeed a counterfeit. Shizuoka Prefectural Police launched an investigation to determine the origin of the counterfeit note and whether there were any additional counterfeits in circulation. The authorities also alerted local businesses and financial institutions to be vigilant when handling 2,000-yen notes and to report any suspicious bills to the police. This incident highlights the importance of proper training for cashiers and store employees in detecting counterfeit currency, as well as the need for public awareness about the security features of genuine Japanese banknotes. The police continue to work diligently to prevent the circulation of counterfeit currency and protect the integrity of Japan's financial system.
Source: TV Shizuoka News - Page No Longer Found

(2019) Tokyo Metropolitan Police Find Counterfeit 10,000-Yen Notes

In December 2019, the Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department reported the discovery of 54 counterfeit 10,000-yen notes in circulation, with a total face value of 540,000 yen. The counterfeit notes were found at various locations across the Tokyo metropolitan area, including convenience stores, supermarkets, and restaurants. The police launched a large-scale investigation to determine the source of the counterfeit notes and identify any individuals or groups involved in their production or distribution. According to the authorities, the counterfeit 10,000-yen notes were highly sophisticated and closely resembled genuine currency, making them difficult to detect without close inspection. The police believe that the counterfeiters likely used high-quality printing equipment and materials to produce the notes. As part of the investigation, the Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department collaborated with local businesses and financial institutions to raise awareness about the counterfeit notes and provide training on detecting suspicious bills. The police also urged the public to be vigilant when handling 10,000-yen notes and to report any suspected counterfeits to the authorities. This incident serves as a reminder of the ongoing battle against counterfeit currency in Japan and the importance of collaboration between law enforcement agencies, businesses, and the public in combating this issue.
Source: The Mainichi - Page No Longer Found

(2019) Fake 1,000-Yen Bills Discovered in Hiroshima Prefecture

In October 2019, a counterfeit 1,000-yen bill was discovered at a convenience store in Hiroshima City, Hiroshima Prefecture. The store clerk noticed that the bill felt different from genuine 1,000-yen notes and had a slightly unusual appearance. Upon closer inspection, the clerk confirmed that the note was indeed a counterfeit and promptly reported the incident to the local police. Hiroshima Prefectural Police launched an investigation and determined that the counterfeit bill was part of a larger batch of fake 1,000-yen notes that had been circulating in the area. The authorities believe that the counterfeiters used advanced printing techniques to produce the notes, making them difficult to distinguish from genuine currency without close examination. As part of the investigation, the police alerted local businesses and financial institutions to be vigilant when handling 1,000-yen bills and to report any suspicious notes to the authorities. The police also worked to raise public awareness about the security features of genuine 1,000-yen notes and encouraged citizens to report any suspected counterfeits. This incident serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts by law enforcement agencies to combat counterfeit currency circulation in Japan and the importance of public cooperation in identifying and reporting suspicious bills.
Source: Chugoku Shimbun - Page No Longer Found

(2019) Arrests Made in Counterfeit 10,000-Yen Note Case

In November 2019, eight suspects were arrested by the Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department for allegedly plotting to circulate counterfeit 10,000-yen notes in the Tokyo metropolitan area. The arrests were made following a months-long investigation by the police, which revealed that the suspects had formed a sophisticated counterfeiting operation. According to the authorities, the suspects had acquired high-quality printing equipment and materials to produce the counterfeit notes, which closely resembled genuine 10,000-yen bills. The police seized a large number of counterfeit notes during raids on the suspects' residences and manufacturing facilities. The total face value of the seized counterfeit currency amounted to several million yen. During questioning, the suspects admitted to their involvement in the counterfeiting operation and revealed that they had planned to distribute the fake notes through various channels, including small businesses and unsuspecting individuals. The Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department has pledged to continue its efforts to combat counterfeit currency circulation and bring those responsible to justice. This case highlights the persistent threat posed by counterfeit currency in Japan and the dedication of law enforcement agencies in tackling this issue to protect the integrity of the country's financial system.
Source: NHK World-Japan - Page No Longer Found

(2019) Man Arrested for Using Counterfeit Money at Pachinko Parlor

In November 2019, a 38-year-old man was arrested in Kobe City, Hyogo Prefecture, for allegedly using counterfeit 1,000-yen bills at a pachinko parlor. The incident occurred when the man attempted to exchange several 1,000-yen bills for pachinko balls at the parlor's cashier counter. The cashier noticed that some of the bills appeared suspicious and contacted the police. Hyogo Prefectural Police officers arrived at the pachinko parlor and confirmed that the bills in question were indeed counterfeits. Upon questioning, the man claimed that he had received the counterfeit bills as change from a convenience store and was unaware of their inauthenticity. However, further investigation revealed that the man had a history of involvement in minor offenses, and the police suspect that he may have knowingly used the counterfeit money. The authorities are now working to trace the origin of the counterfeit 1,000-yen bills and determine if the suspect had any connections to a larger counterfeiting operation. This case highlights the need for businesses, particularly those dealing with large amounts of cash transactions, to be vigilant in detecting counterfeit currency and promptly reporting any suspicious bills to the police.
Source: Kobe Shimbun NEXT - Page No Longer Found

(2018) Chinese Nationals Arrested for Circulating Counterfeit 1,000-Yen Notes

In April 2018, a group of Chinese nationals was arrested in Japan for allegedly smuggling and circulating counterfeit 1,000-yen notes from China. The arrests were made following a joint investigation by the Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department and the Osaka Prefectural Police. The suspects were found to have smuggled a large number of counterfeit 1,000-yen notes into Japan, with a total face value of approximately 1.7 million yen. According to the authorities, the counterfeit notes were of high quality and closely resembled genuine currency, making them difficult to detect through casual inspection. During questioning, the suspects admitted to their involvement in the smuggling and circulation of the counterfeit notes, revealing that they had intended to use the fake currency for personal gain. The police believe that the suspects may have been part of a larger international counterfeiting ring and are investigating potential connections to similar cases in other countries. This case highlights the importance of international cooperation in combating the circulation of counterfeit currency and the need for vigilance among businesses and the public in detecting and reporting suspicious banknotes. The successful apprehension of the suspects demonstrates the commitment of Japanese law enforcement agencies in tackling cross-border counterfeiting crimes.
Source: The Japan Times - Page No Longer Found

(2018) Counterfeit 10,000-Yen Notes Found in Saitama Prefecture

In November 2018, multiple counterfeit 10,000-yen notes were discovered at a bank in Saitama City, Saitama Prefecture. The counterfeit notes were detected during a routine currency screening process conducted by the bank's staff. Upon closer examination, the bank employees noticed that the notes had a slightly different texture and appearance compared to genuine 10,000-yen bills. The bank immediately reported the incident to the Saitama Prefectural Police, who launched an investigation into the case. The police determined that the counterfeit notes were part of a larger batch of fake 10,000-yen bills that had been circulating in the prefecture. The authorities believe that the counterfeiters used sophisticated printing techniques and high-quality materials to produce the notes, making them difficult to detect through casual inspection. As part of the investigation, the Saitama Prefectural Police collaborated with local banks and businesses to raise awareness about the counterfeit notes and provide training on identifying suspicious bills. The police also urged the public to be cautious when handling 10,000-yen notes and to report any suspected counterfeits to the authorities. This incident serves as a reminder of the ongoing battle against counterfeit currency in Japan and the importance of maintaining a vigilant and proactive approach to detecting and preventing the circulation of fake notes.
Source: Saitama Shimbun - Page No Longer Found

(2017) Counterfeit 500-Yen Coins Found in Tokyo

In September 2017, a series of counterfeit 500-yen coins were discovered in circulation in Tokyo. The fake coins were first detected by several vending machine operators who noticed that the coins had a slightly different weight and color compared to genuine 500-yen coins. The Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department launched an investigation and found that the counterfeit coins had been used at various locations across the city, including train stations, convenience stores, and supermarkets. The authorities believe that the counterfeiters used a combination of casting and electroplating techniques to produce the fake coins, which had a similar appearance to genuine 500-yen coins but lacked the precise details and weight. As part of the investigation, the police collaborated with the Japan Mint and local businesses to raise awareness about the characteristics of authentic 500-yen coins and encouraged the public to report any suspicious coins to the authorities. The police also worked with vending machine manufacturers to develop more advanced counterfeit detection systems to prevent the acceptance of fake coins. Although no arrests were made in connection with this case, the incident served as a reminder of the ongoing threat posed by counterfeit currency and the importance of public and private sector cooperation in preventing its circulation.
Source: The Asahi Shimbun - Page No Longer Found

(2016) Counterfeit 5,000-Yen Notes Found in Fukuoka Prefecture

In February 2016, multiple counterfeit 5,000-yen notes were discovered in circulation in Fukuoka City, Fukuoka Prefecture. The fake notes were first detected by a local bank teller who noticed discrepancies in the texture and appearance of the bills during a routine transaction. The Fukuoka Prefectural Police were immediately notified and launched an investigation into the case. The authorities found that the counterfeit notes had been used at various businesses across the city, including restaurants, department stores, and gas stations. The police believe that the counterfeiters used sophisticated printing techniques to produce high-quality fake notes that closely resembled genuine 5,000-yen bills. As part of the investigation, the police collaborated with local media outlets to raise public awareness about the security features of authentic 5,000-yen notes and encouraged citizens to report any suspicious bills to the authorities. The police also worked with businesses to provide training on detecting counterfeit currency and implementing preventive measures. Despite extensive efforts by law enforcement agencies, no arrests were made in connection with this case. However, the incident highlighted the need for ongoing vigilance and collaboration among the public, businesses, and authorities to combat the circulation of counterfeit currency effectively.
Source: The Japan News by The Yomiuri Shimbun - Page No Longer Found

(2015) Counterfeit 10,000-Yen Notes Found in Nara Prefecture

In September 2015, several counterfeit 10,000-yen notes were discovered in circulation in Nara City, Nara Prefecture. The fake notes were first detected by a local store owner who noticed inconsistencies in the texture and printing quality of the bills during a transaction. The Nara Prefectural Police launched an investigation and found that the counterfeit notes had been used at various businesses across the city, including convenience stores, restaurants, and tourist attractions. The authorities believe that the counterfeiters used advanced printing equipment and high-quality materials to produce the fake notes, which closely resembled genuine 10,000-yen bills. As part of the investigation, the police collaborated with the Bank of Japan and local financial institutions to raise awareness about the security features of authentic 10,000-yen notes and encouraged businesses to thoroughly inspect any high-denomination bills they receive. The police also increased patrols in areas where the counterfeit notes were reported and worked with local media to inform the public about the incident. Although no arrests were made in connection with this case, the swift response by law enforcement agencies and the cooperation of the community helped prevent the further spread of the counterfeit currency.
Source: Nara Shimbun - Page No Longer Found

(2014) Man Arrested for Possessing Counterfeit 1,000-Yen Bills in Kyoto

In June 2014, a 35-year-old man was arrested in Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture, for allegedly possessing counterfeit 1,000-yen bills. The arrest was made after a local convenience store reported receiving a suspicious 1,000-yen bill from the suspect. Kyoto Prefectural Police officers investigated the case and discovered that the man had been in possession of multiple counterfeit 1,000-yen bills. Upon searching the suspect's residence, the police found additional fake bills and materials believed to be used in their production. During questioning, the man admitted to his involvement in the counterfeiting operation, revealing that he had been producing the fake notes for several months. The authorities praised the convenience store staff for their attentiveness in identifying the counterfeit bill and promptly reporting the incident to the police. This case underscores the crucial role that businesses and the public play in assisting law enforcement agencies to detect and combat the circulation of counterfeit currency. The successful arrest of the suspect also demonstrates the effectiveness of the police in investigating and apprehending individuals involved in counterfeiting activities.
Source: Kyoto Shimbun - Page No Longer Found

(2013) Counterfeit 5,000-Yen Notes Found in Aichi Prefecture

In March 2013, a series of counterfeit 5,000-yen notes were discovered in circulation in various cities across Aichi Prefecture, including Nagoya, Toyohashi, and Okazaki. The fake notes were first detected by several banks and retail stores, who noticed discrepancies in the texture, color, and printing quality of the bills. The Aichi Prefectural Police launched a large-scale investigation into the case, collaborating with local businesses, financial institutions, and the media to gather information and raise public awareness. The authorities found that the counterfeit notes had been distributed through various channels, including vending machines, ATMs, and in-person transactions. The police believe that the counterfeiters used sophisticated printing equipment and high-quality materials to produce the fake notes, which closely resembled genuine 5,000-yen bills. As part of the investigation, the police increased patrols in areas where the counterfeit notes were reported, conducted extensive surveillance, and analyzed security camera footage to identify potential suspects. Although no arrests were made in connection with this case, the coordinated efforts of law enforcement agencies, businesses, and the public helped to minimize the impact of the counterfeit currency and prevent its further spread. This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of ongoing collaboration and vigilance in combating the threat of counterfeit currency.
Source: Chunichi Shimbun - Page No Longer Found

(2012) Counterfeit 1,000-Yen Bills Found in Okinawa Prefecture

In August 2012, multiple counterfeit 1,000-yen bills were discovered in circulation in Naha City, Okinawa Prefecture. The fake bills were first detected by several local businesses, including restaurants and retail stores, who noticed inconsistencies in the appearance and texture of the bills. The Okinawa Prefectural Police were immediately notified and launched an investigation into the case. The authorities found that the counterfeit bills had been used in various transactions throughout the city, with unsuspecting customers and businesses falling victim to the fraud. The police believe that the counterfeiters used advanced printing techniques to produce high-quality fake notes that closely resembled genuine 1,000-yen bills. As part of the investigation, the police worked closely with local businesses and financial institutions to raise awareness about the security features of authentic 1,000-yen notes and provided training on detecting counterfeit currency. The police also increased patrols in commercial areas and collaborated with the media to inform the public about the incident and encourage them to report any suspicious bills. Although no arrests were made in connection with this case, the swift response by law enforcement agencies and the cooperation of the community helped to prevent the further circulation of the counterfeit bills and minimize the financial losses suffered by businesses and individuals.
Source: Ryukyu Shimpo - Page No Longer Found

(2011) Man Arrested for Using Counterfeit 10,000-Yen Notes in Hokkaido

In December 2011, a 28-year-old man was arrested in Sapporo City, Hokkaido Prefecture, for allegedly using counterfeit 10,000-yen notes at multiple locations throughout the city. The arrest was made following a joint investigation by the Hokkaido Prefectural Police and the Sapporo Regional Taxation Bureau. The suspect was found to have used the counterfeit notes to make purchases at several convenience stores, restaurants, and bars. According to the authorities, the counterfeit 10,000-yen notes were of high quality and closely resembled genuine currency, making them difficult to detect through casual inspection. During questioning, the suspect admitted to knowingly using the counterfeit notes, claiming that he had received them from an acquaintance. The police are now working to trace the source of the counterfeit notes and determine if the suspect had any connections to a larger counterfeiting operation. This case highlights the importance of businesses being vigilant in detecting and reporting counterfeit currency, as well as the need for public awareness about the security features of genuine banknotes. The successful apprehension of the suspect demonstrates the effectiveness of collaboration between law enforcement agencies in combating the circulation of counterfeit currency.
Source: Hokkaido Shimbun - Page No Longer Found

(2010) Counterfeit 500-Yen Coins Found in Nagano Prefecture

In June 2010, a series of counterfeit 500-yen coins were discovered in circulation in various cities across Nagano Prefecture, including Nagano City, Matsumoto City, and Ueda City. The fake coins were first detected by several local businesses and vending machine operators, who noticed that the coins had a slightly different weight, color, and design compared to genuine 500-yen coins. The Nagano Prefectural Police launched an investigation into the case, collaborating with the Japan Mint and local authorities to gather information and raise public awareness. The police found that the counterfeit coins had been distributed through various channels, including vending machines, parking meters, and in-person transactions. The authorities believe that the counterfeiters used advanced minting techniques and high-quality materials to produce the fake coins, which closely resembled genuine 500-yen coins. As part of the investigation, the police increased patrols in areas where the counterfeit coins were reported, conducted extensive surveillance, and analyzed security camera footage to identify potential suspects. Although no arrests were made in connection with this case, the coordinated efforts of law enforcement agencies, businesses, and the public helped to minimize the impact of the counterfeit currency and prevent its further spread. This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of ongoing collaboration and vigilance in combating the threat of counterfeit currency, even in the case of coins.
Source: Shinano Mainichi Shimbun - Page No Longer Found

(2009) Counterfeit 1,000-Yen Bills Found in Yamaguchi Prefecture

In March 2009, multiple counterfeit 1,000-yen bills were discovered in circulation in Shimonoseki City, Yamaguchi Prefecture. The fake bills were first detected by a local bank teller, who noticed discrepancies in the texture and printing quality of the bills during a routine transaction. The Yamaguchi Prefectural Police were immediately notified and launched an investigation into the case. The authorities found that the counterfeit bills had been used at various businesses throughout the city, including convenience stores, gas stations, and restaurants. The police believe that the counterfeiters used sophisticated printing techniques and high-quality materials to produce the fake notes, which closely resembled genuine 1,000-yen bills. As part of the investigation, the police collaborated with local businesses and financial institutions to raise awareness about the security features of authentic 1,000-yen notes and provided training on detecting counterfeit currency. The police also increased patrols in commercial areas and worked with the media to inform the public about the incident and encourage them to report any suspicious bills. Although no arrests were made in connection with this case, the swift response by law enforcement agencies and the cooperation of the community helped to prevent the further spread of the counterfeit bills and minimize the financial losses suffered by businesses and individuals.
Source: Chugoku Shimbun - Page No Longer Found