🗺️ Mint Museum, Saitama (埼玉造幣博物館)

The Saitama Currency Museum is a place where you can learn about the manufacturing process and history of "currency." You can witness the moment when the current circulating Japanese yen bills are printed. The minting factory is responsible for crafting “medals” commissioned by the Cabinet Office's Awards and Honors Bureau using exquisite craftsmanship. The museum also showcases the medals from the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, as well as ancient coins, both large and small, that have appeared in historical dramas and movies.

You can visit the mint factory (weekdays only). The exhibition includes around 1,000 items, including that year's Olympic medals. In the museum shop, you can buy metal crafts, coin sets, and snacks that make great souvenirs.