USD to JPY — today's rate explained
As of 2026-08-25, 1 US Dollar equals 159.20 Japanese Yen at the mid-market exchange rate. This is the fairest reference rate — the midpoint between what buyers and sellers are paying on global currency markets.
The USD/JPY pair is a barometer of global risk appetite. A weaker Yen often signals higher US interest rates relative to Japan's near-zero rates, affecting carry-trade flows worldwide.
Example: $1,000 converts to about ¥159,198.86 at mid-market. Japan still leans cash-friendly in places, so withdraw yen from ATMs without accepting dynamic currency conversion, and check this rate before you land.
About the USD and JPY
US Dollar (USD, $): The US Dollar is the world's primary reserve currency and the most traded currency on global foreign-exchange markets. It is the official currency of the United States.
Japanese Yen (JPY, ¥): The Japanese Yen is the third most traded currency and is widely used as a funding currency in global carry trades. It is used in Japan.
What moves the USD/JPY exchange rate?
Exchange rates respond to interest-rate decisions by central banks such as Federal Reserve and Bank of Japan, inflation data, trade balances, and geopolitical events.
For USD/JPY specifically, shifts in capital flows between the United States and Japan, changes in commodity prices, and differences in economic growth rates all contribute to daily rate movements.
USD to JPY — 30-day performance
Over the past 30 days, USD/JPY traded between 156.54 and 163.70, with the pair losing 2.69% overall. The current rate of 159.20 sits below the 30-day midpoint of 160.12.
Historical context helps you judge whether today's rate is relatively strong or weak, but past performance does not predict future movements. Always compare the rate you are offered against the mid-market figure shown here.
How to get a better USD to JPY rate
Banks and card providers typically add a 1–4% margin on top of the mid-market rate shown on this page, plus fixed transfer fees. Before exchanging USD for JPY, compare the final amount you will receive — not just the headline rate.
For larger amounts, specialist money-transfer services often beat bank rates. For travel, prepaid multi-currency cards or local ATMs may offer competitive rates depending on your bank's foreign-transaction fees. Read our mid-market rate guide and cheapest-exchange checklist before you convert.