Japan plans to introduce fingerprint currency for tourists

Coming summer Japan is set to introduce fingerprint currency. With this new innovation, tourists visiting Japan won't need to change their money up. After having their identity verified, visitors will then be able to buy things from shops with a flash of their finger when their card details have been processed.

It is also hoped the system could replace the need to present a passport when checking in at hotels

The Japanese government are introducing the project in bid to encourage visitors from abroad in the lead up to the 2020 Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Government officials also hope the innovative measure will allay fears over credit and debit card fraud.

Japan News reports that 300 souvenir shops, restaurants, hotels and other establishments have signed up to participate in the experiment. 

They are located in areas that are popular among foreign tourists such as Hakone, Kamakura, Yugawara in Kanagawa Prefecture, and Atami in Shizuoka Prefecture.

By 2020, and in time for the Olympic Games, it is expected Tokyo will be fully compliant with the system.