Japan to Begin Digital Yen CBDC Pilot Program in Fall 2026
The Bank of Japan and Ministry of Finance jointly announced that a pilot program for the central bank digital currency (CBDC) 'Digital Yen' will begin in fall 2026.
Digital Yen Pilot Program
On March 14, 2026, the Bank of Japan and the Ministry of Finance officially announced that a pilot program for the central bank digital currency (CBDC), known as the “Digital Yen,” will begin in fall 2026.
Plan Details
The pilot will launch in select areas of Tokyo, targeting approximately 100,000 participants. Participants will be able to send and make payments with Digital Yen through a smartphone application.
- Target Areas: Shibuya, Minato, and Chiyoda wards in Tokyo
- Participants: Approximately 100,000
- Duration: October 2026 - March 2027 (6 months)
International Context
Following China’s Digital Yuan and the EU’s Digital Euro, Japan has taken a significant step toward CBDC implementation. As central banks worldwide accelerate digital currency development, Japan’s move is expected to have a major impact on international financial markets.