Slight damage/tear on banknotes.

Was wondering, how much damage is still acceptable for Japanese banknotes? For example, a whole bill intact but with a tear.

And for slightly damaged bills, can I get it exchanged at a nearby bank (not Tokyo’s Bank of Japan)?

8 comments
  1. If it is more than two-thirds, the full amount.

    However, they may be denied on the basis of foreign nationality.

  2. Yes, go to your local bank. Explain the problem to the greeter and they will guide you through the process. The inspection will take some time depending on how busy they are. As long as everything is legit, they’ll replace it.

  3. If it’s slightly damaged, you can just tape it I think? with clear tape. There’s a whole bit about this in a famous mystery novel.

    But if it’s just a tear you can “launder” it by buying an onigiri at a conbini with it

  4. I use these types of banknotes to top up my suica with, they never get rejected somehow so that’s my go-to solution.

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