How to Make a Bank Transfer In Japan: An Easy Furikomi Guide

Need to make a bank transfer in Japan? 

Whether you're sending money to a friend, paying rent, making utility payments, or handling business transactions, knowing how to make a bank transfer—known as "furikomi"—is essential when living in Japan.

This guide will walk you through the steps, fees, and tips for transferring to Japan. 

What is furikomi?

Furikomi (振り込み) is the Japanese word for making a bank transfer or payment. It is most commonly used to transfer money between Japanese bank accounts.

To make a domestic bank transfer, you will need the recipient's banking information, such as their account number and bank branch code.

How to bank transfer in Japan

Making a furikomi in Japan is quite easy once you know what everything means. This section mainly focuses on domestic bank transfers.

Method 1: At a bank counter

You can do a bank transfer in Japan to your bank account.

Before going, you should prepare the following bank account details and information:

• Recipient’s Bank Name (銀行名, ginkoumei): Know the bank name you are transferring money to.

• Branch Name (支店名, shitenmei): Know the specific branch of the recipient's bank.

• Account Type (口座種別, kouza shubetsu): Specify whether it is a savings account (普通, futsuu) or checking account (当座, touza).

• Account Number (口座番号, kouza bangou): The recipient's account number.

• Recipient’s Name (受取人名, uketorininmei): The full name of the person or business account receiving the transfer.

• Your Bankbook or Cash Card: Depending on your bank, you might need your bankbook (通帳, tsuuchou) or cash card (キャッシュカード, kyasshu kaado).

• Amount to Transfer: Have the exact amount ready, including any applicable fees.

Japan Post furikomi form (PDF )

You can obtain a furikomi form at the bank near the counters or request the paper from the bank staff. Fill out the required information on the form.

After filling out the furikomi form, bring it to the bank teller along with your bankbook or cash card. The staff will process the transaction and provide you with a receipt. Keep the receipt as proof of the transaction.

The transfer fee varies depending on your bank and the total amount being transferred. It might be between 300 yen and 800 yen.

Method 2: Using an ATM

In Japan, most ATMs, especially major bank ATMs at banks, convenience stores, and shopping centers, support bank transfers.

Insert your cash card into the ATM and select your preferred language if applicable.

On the main menu, select 振込 (furikomi) for bank transfers. Then, enter the receipt's banking information, such as:

• Bank Name (銀行名, ginkoumei): Choose the recipient's bank from a list.

• Branch Name (支店名, shitenmei): Select the branch where the recipient's account is held.

• Account Type (口座種別, kouza shubetsu): Choose between a savings account (普通, futsuu) or a checking account (当座, touza).

• Account Number (口座番号, kouza bangou): Enter the recipient's Japanese bank account number.

• Recipient's Name (受取人名, uketorininmei): Enter the recipient's name using katakana. Some ATMs may require you to enter the name in full width (全角).

Then, enter the transfer amount. The ATM screen may display the total, including transfer fees. Confirm the details and complete the transaction. The ATM will dispense a receipt.

ATM bank transfer fees can range between 110 yen and 440 yen, depending on the bank, time of day, and whether the transfer is to an account within the same bank or different financial institutions.

Method 3: Online banking

Log into your online banking platform on your desktop or mobile app. 

Find the section for transfer or 振込 (furikomi). This button can be found under the "Transfers" or "Payments" tab.

Enter your recipient's banking information, such as:

• Bank Name (銀行名, ginkoumei): Select the recipient's bank from a drop-down list.

• Branch Name (支店名, shitenmei): Select the specific branch where the recipient's account is held.

• Account Type (口座種別, kouza shubetsu): Choose the correct account type (savings or checking).

• Account Number (口座番号, kouza bangou): Input the recipient's account number.

• Recipient's Name (受取人名, uketorininmei): Enter the recipient's name, typically in katakana. Some banks might require specific input methods.

Enter the specific amount you want to transfer, and the input will show you the total, including any additional fees. Review and confirm the information. 

To complete, you may need to pass security steps such as a one-time password or a security token provided by your bank. Finalize the bank transfer and save the form as proof of the transfer.

Online bank transfers in Japan can cost between 0 yen and 330 yen, depending on whether you are transferring within the same bank or not.

Furikomi fees

Depending on your Japanese bank account and your chosen payment method, you might have to pay a fund transfer fee when sending your amount to another bank. 

So here are the most major Japanese banks and transfer fees.

Bank counter transfer fees

Here are the bank transfer fees when you do it at the bank counter.

ATM transfer fees

Here are the bank transfer fees when you do it at the ATM.

Tips when making a bank transfer in Japan

Tip #1: Know their name in katana

Depending on their banking institution, their local bank account in Japan might be in katakana.

Tip #2: Double-check bank details

Also, double, if not triple, check all your recipient's banking information. One mistake can result in transferring to a different account or not transferring at all.

Tip #3: Be aware of transfer fees

Transfer fees vary depending on the bank, the total amount, and if the transfer is within the same bank. Knowing these fees can help you avoid unexpected costs and predict the total amount taken from your account.

Frequently asked questions

How long does a bank transfer take in Japan?

Japanese bank transfers can be made immediately with the same bank. If it is a different banking institution, a bank transfer in Japan can take 1-2 working days.

How much is a bank transfer fee in Japan?

Bank transfer fees in Japan can be between 100 and 600 yen. Usually, the sender pays for the transfer free of charge.

In closing

Making a bank transfer in Japan, or "furikomi," is straightforward once you understand the process. To avoid any issues, always double-check your information and keep a record of your transactions.