Japan Post Bank (ゆうちょ銀行, Yucho Ginko) is operated by Japan Post and is one of the most widely accessible banks in Japan — with branches and ATMs at every post office nationwide. For many foreigners, it’s one of the easier banks to open an account with.
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