How to Make a Bank Transfer in Japan (Furikomi): Step by Step

Paying rent, repaying a friend, settling a bill: in Japan almost everything goes through the bank transfer, the furikomi. Here is how to do it, step by step, in 2026.

Quick answer: Furikomi (振込) is the Japanese bank transfer. You can do it at an ATM, through your bank's app, or in branch. You need the bank name, the branch, the account type and number, and the recipient's name in katakana. Fees range from 0 to 880 JPY depending on the bank and method. A transfer to another bank takes from a few hours to one business day.

What you need

• The bank and branch name (支店 shiten)
• The account type (普通 futsuu = ordinary)
• The account number (口座番号)
• The recipient's name in katakana

Making a furikomi at an ATM

1. Insert your card and choose 振込 (furikomi).

2. Select the destination bank, then the branch.

3. Enter the account number and the amount.

4. Check the recipient name that appears.

5. Confirm and keep the receipt.

Making a furikomi online

Online banks (Sony Bank, Rakuten) and the Japan Post app let you transfer from your phone, often with reduced or zero fees to internal accounts. To open a suitable account, see our bank account guide.

Fees and timing to know

• Internal transfer (same bank): often free.
• External transfer: 110 to 880 JPY depending on the bank and channel (the ATM costs more than mobile).
• Timing: instant to one business day; beware of transfers late at night or at the weekend.

Mastering furikomi means handling rent, bills and repayments smoothly in Japan: a basic skill of daily life.

See also: [opening a bank account in Japan](/blog/open-bank-account-japan-foreigner) and [furnished apartments in Tokyo](/blog/furnished-apartment-tokyo-top-5-expats).