Japan is known for its advanced technology, unfortunately this doesn't extend to the banking system. Making a bank transfer in Japan is a relatively straightforward process, but it can be a little daunting if you're not familiar with the language or the process. However, with a little guidance, you'll be able to make a transfer with ease.
If you're in Japan long-term, we recommend opening a bank account to make your life easier. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to make a bank transfer in Japan, whether you're using online banking, an ATM, or cash.
Online Banking Transfer
1. Log into your online bank account.
2. Look for the option to make a bank transfer. This will typically be labeled as "振込" (furikomi)
3. Enter the recipient's details, including the bank name, branch, account number, and account type.
The bank name is typically labeled as "銀行名" (ginkōmei)
The branch name is typically labeled as "支店" (shiten)
The account number is typically labeled as "口座番号" (kōza bangō)
The account type is typically labeled as "講座科目" (kōza kamoku) and will usually be one of three options:
Ordinary (普通 futsū)
Checking (当座 tōza)
Savings (貯蓄 chochiku)
Make sure you double check all the details before proceeding
4. Enter the amount you wish to transfer.
5. You will be asked to double-check the information you entered and confirm you wish to continue.
ATM Bank Transfer
1. Insert your bank card and enter your PIN code.
2. Select "振込" (furikomi) on the home screen. Normally the next screen has text telling you that you may incur fees and to beware of fraud
3. Select the recipient's bank, branch, and account type.
4. Next you will be prompted to select the recipient's bank, branch and type of account (this will normally be Ordinary, or ( 普通 futsū), but double check with your recipient first)
5. Enter the recipient's account number and the amount you wish to transfer.
6. Double-check all the information before confirming (確認 kakunin) the transfer.
Cash Transfer (at an ATM)
1. Insert your cash and choose cash transfer "現金" (genkin) instead of bank transfer.
2. Enter your first and last names and a Japanese phone number.
3. Select the recipient's bank, branch, and account type.
4. Next you will be prompted to select the recipient's bank, branch and type of account (this will normally be Ordinary, or (普通 futsū), but double check with your recipient first)
5. Enter the recipient's account number and the amount you wish to transfer.
6. Double-check all the information before confirming (確認 kakunin) the transfer.
If you made a mistake:
Press the "訂正" (teisei) button to return to the previous screen or
Press the "取り消し" (torikeshi) button to cancel the operation
Note that most Japanese banks close at 3pm so if you make a transfer after that time, your transaction will be processed the next day. The Post Office Bank closes at 5pm.
Overall, making a bank transfer in Japan is a relatively straightforward process, whether you choose to do it online or through an ATM. With a little guidance and practice, you'll be able to make a transfer with ease. Remember to double-check all the details before confirming the transfer to avoid any mistakes. And if in doubt don’t be scared to ask the bank staff for help. They normally provide assistance and often have one or two staff members on duty to help customers at the ATMs. Even the security staff often will jump in to help if the bank staff are busy helping other customers.
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