Banknotes of the Japanese yen

This is because it is desirable to use an accurate photograph as the original for a portrait, rather than a painting, in order to prevent counterfeiting.

[18] According to a news release [19] from the National Police Agency, they seized 11,717 counterfeit Series D banknotes (excluding the ¥2000 denomination) in 2005.

The 2000 yen note was first issued on July 19, 2000, to commemorate the 26th G8 summit in Okinawa and the 2000 millennium year as well.

Pictured on the front of the note is Shureimon, a famous gate in Naha, Okinawa near the site of the summit.

The other side features a scene from The Tale of Genji and the author Murasaki Shikibu on the lower right corner.

On April 9, 2019, Finance Minister Tarō Asō announced new designs for the ¥1000, ¥5000, and ¥10,000 notes, for use beginning on July 3, 2024.