Two must-do tasks upon arriving in Japan. Without a bank account, many things are restricted; without a mobile SIM, you can't even order food delivery.
🔍 Bank Account Eligibility Check
※ Each bank's screening criteria may change; the results are a general reference only.
🏦 Opening a Bank Account
Recommended Banks (Foreigner-Friendly)
1. MUFG Bank (Mitsubishi UFJ)
Most branches, foreigners can open accounts. Requires passport, residence card, and seal. Some branches require Japanese language ability.
2. Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation (SMBC)
Online appointment for account opening, process is relatively smooth. Requires a Japanese mobile number and address.
3. Japan Post Bank (Yucho Bank)
Lowest barrier to entry, even newcomers to Japan can open an account. However, transfer fees are higher, suitable for initial transition.
4. Rakuten Bank / SBI Shinsei Net Bank
Pure online banks, good interest rates and services. However, usually requires a Japanese mobile number and verification with another bank account first.
Passport + Residence Card (with address on the back)
Personal Seal (hanko, either registered or unofficial)
Japanese mobile number (for verification)
Certificate of Residence (required by some banks)
📱 Mobile SIM Card
Types of Carriers
📶 Major Carriers (Docomo / au / SoftBank)
Best signal, most expensive plans. Strict screening, some stores may refuse foreigners. Suitable for long-term residence.
💡 Budget SIM (MVNO)
30-50% cheaper, uses the major carriers' networks. Foreigner-friendly, easy online application. Recommended: IIJmio, LINEMO, ahamo, Rakuten Mobile.
Recommended Budget SIMs
Rakuten Mobile: Most cost-effective, but signal coverage is weaker. Cheap or even free tiers available.
ahamo: Under Docomo, good signal, monthly fee from 2,970 yen.
LINEMO: Under SoftBank, suitable for young people, from 990 yen.
IIJmio: Established MVNO, stable and reliable, flexible plans.
⚠️ Pitfall Warnings
2-year auto-renewal contracts are common; early cancellation incurs a penalty fee.
Service quality varies greatly between carrier stores; it's recommended to apply online first.
After getting a mobile SIM, many banks allow account opening; but opening a bank account sometimes requires a phone number—suggest getting a budget SIM first.