A bank account is a convenient way to receive living allowance or salary. It is also convenient when paying utility bills, and conducting other transactions. Certificate of Alien Registration card, passport, or another form of identification, and an 'inkan' stamp will be needed to open a bank account. Some banks will allow a signature to substitute for the 'inkan', so check in advance. If you already have an inkan stamp (in kanji, hiragana or katakana), don't forget to bring it.

Postal Account

Postal savings account (yuucho-bank) at Japan Post (the Japanese postal service) is also useful. The function and the required documents are similar to that of a bank. Post offices are located throughout the city.

Postal Savings Home Page:
http://www.jp-bank.japanpost.jp/en_index.html