I am currently living in Oita Prefecture as an international student. I am planning on opening a new bank account in a Japanese bank. I already have an account in JP Post Bank but I feel the need to open another bank account. I would like suggestions on which bank should I select for myself.
3 comments
Why do you feel the need to open another bank account?
As an international student, especially if you’re in Japan for less than 6 months since you arrived, it’s not so easy to open bank accounts. JP being the exception.
Of course you can try and it might even work but apparently that’s rare.
Also, if you don’t say why JP is not enough for you and what you’re looking for, suggesting things is a bit difficult.
If you have been in Japan for more than 6 months or if you have a job with a business card, then Sony Bank. Otherwise just stick it out with Yuucho Bank.
Aside from procedural matters, if you’re in Oita, Oita Bank is a good choice. They are called regional banks and have many branches and ATMs that are close to the prefecture. You can also use other banks in Kyushu and 7-11 ATMs. If you are over 18 years old and live in the prefecture, you can open an account, but you will first need to visit a branch.
If you don’t need to deposit or withdraw cash, online banking is sufficient. Store banks’ overseas remittance fees are too high.