Japan Post Bank — JP Bank — is one of the easiest bank accounts for foreigners to open in Japan. No complex requirements, nationwide ATM access, and international transfers supported. Here’s everything you need to know to open and use an account.
Why Yucho for Foreigners?
- Extensive network: ATMs at 24,000+ post offices nationwide — including rural areas where other banks don’t reach
- Relatively foreigner-friendly: More accessible than major megabanks for new residents
- 7-Eleven ATMs: Yucho cards work at all 7-Eleven ATMs
- International remittance: Direct overseas wire services (international remittance)
- No monthly fee: Free to maintain
Account Types
| Account | Japanese | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Regular savings | 通常貯金 | Standard account — what most people open |
| Fixed deposit | 定期貯金 | Time deposits with slightly better rates |
| Savings with standing orders | 振替口座 | For businesses and regular payments |
Most foreigners open a 通常貯金 account.
How to Open a Yucho Account
Requirements
- Passport
- Residence Card (在留カード) — must show your current address
- My Number Card or notification letter (sometimes required)
- Japanese phone number
Process
- Visit your nearest post office (郵便局) with the above documents
- Fill in the application form (staff can usually assist in simple English)
- Choose a 4-digit PIN for your cash card
- Your bankbook (通帳) and cash card arrive by mail in 1–2 weeks
Minimum deposit: None required to open.
ATM Usage
In Japan
Yucho ATMs are available at all post offices. Your Yucho card also works at:
- 7-Eleven ATMs (24/7, usually free)
- E-net ATMs (FamilyMart, etc.)
- Some MUFG and regional bank ATMs
Fee-free hours: Yucho ATMs are free Monday–Friday 8:45am–6pm; small fee outside those hours.
Overseas ATM Withdrawals
Yucho cards with international function (国際キャッシュカード) work at overseas ATMs on the Visa/Mastercard network. Fees apply (¥150–330 per withdrawal + exchange rate markup).
International Remittance (海外送金)
Yucho offers a wire transfer service called 国際送金 directly from post office counters:
- Available to 164 countries
- Minimum amount: ¥1,000
- Fee: ¥2,500 per transfer (flat fee)
- Exchange rate: Japan Post’s rate (not as good as Wise)
Vs. Wise: For large transfers, Wise is significantly cheaper. Yucho’s international remittance is convenient for occasional small transfers.
👉 See: Wise in Japan: Complete Guide for Foreigners 👉 See: Best Money Transfer Apps from Japan
Online Banking
Yucho’s online banking (ゆうちょダイレクト) allows:
- Balance checks
- Domestic transfers
- Standing order setup
- Account history
Interface: Primarily Japanese. Works with Google Translate.
Limitations to Know
- No debit card (initially): Yucho issues a cash card, not automatically a debit card. A Visa debit card can be applied for separately.
- Limited English support: Counter staff rarely speak English outside major cities
- No credit card: Yucho doesn’t issue credit cards