A commemorative event was held on July 2 to celebrate the upcoming release of new banknotes, marking new designs 20 years. 

The new banknotes will be delivered to various financial institutions from the Bank of Japan on July 3, and circulation will commence. 

Mizuho Bank held a commemorative event on July 2 for the issuance of the new banknotes. The bank can be traced back to Daiichi Kokuritsu Bank, which was founded by the new face of the 10,000-yen bill Shibusawa Eiichi. 

S/ Kihara Masahiro, Group CEO, Mizuho Financial Group: With the introduction of the world’s first 3D hologram and advanced anti-counterfeiting technology, Shibusawa Eiichi has been selected as the face of the new 10,000-yen bill, marking a significant occasion. 

As of the end of June, around 90 percent of ATMs at financial institutions and checkouts at convenience stores have completed the transition to accept the new banknotes.  

However, ticket machines at restaurants are 50 percent compliant, and beverage vending machines remain at only 20 percent to 30 percent.  

It is important to note that the current banknotes can be used even after the new banknotes are issued. 

The Bank of Japan warns against fraudulent claims that old bills are no longer valid.