Banknote handling machine and banknote handling method

A banknote handling machine for handling banknotes including a windowed banknote that has a window capable of transmitting light formed at a predetermined position comprising: a transport path configured to transport a banknote; a window identification unit configured to judge whether the banknote being transported on the transport path is a windowed banknote; a transport path sensor, which is arranged in the transport path, configured to detect the banknote passing thereon; and a banknote presence/absence detection unit configured to judge a presence or an absence of the banknote associated with a detection signal from the transport path sensor. The banknote presence/absence detection unit performs a detection based on a detection result of the window identification unit.