List of Banks in Japan: A Comprehensive Guide

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Japan has a well-established banking system with a long history. The country's first bank was the Dai-Ichi Bank, established in 1873.

There are numerous banks in Japan, offering a wide range of services to individuals and businesses. The top four banks in Japan by assets are Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group (MUFG), Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group (SMFG), Mizuho Financial Group, and Resona Holdings.

These large banks have a significant presence in the country, with MUFG being the largest bank in Japan by assets.

National Banks

Japan has a robust financial system, and one key aspect is its network of national banks. The Development Bank of Japan is one of the country's main national institutions, providing financial support for various projects.

The Japan Finance Corporation is another crucial player, offering financial services to support economic growth. It's a vital part of Japan's financial infrastructure.

Okinawa Development Finance Corporation is a specialized institution, focusing on the development of the Okinawa region. It's a unique entity that addresses the financial needs of this specific area.

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Shoko Chukin Bank is a cooperative bank that plays a significant role in Japan's financial landscape. It's a member-owned bank that provides financial services to its members.

Japan has a variety of national banks, each with its own focus and mission. Here are some of the key national banks in Japan:

  • Development Bank of Japan (DBJ)
  • Japan Finance Corporation (JFC)
  • Okinawa Development Finance Corporation (Okinawa Shinkō Kaihatsu Kin'yū Kōko)
  • Shoko Chukin Bank (Shōkō Kumiai Chūō Kinko K.K.)
  • Japan Housing Finance Agency (Jūtaku Kin'yū Shien Kikō)

Regional Banks

Japan has a range of regional banks, each with its own distinct services and features. These banks play a significant role in the banking sector of Japan, catering to the needs of specific regions.

Regional banks in Japan have their head offices usually in the capital cities of the 47 Japanese prefectures, serving mainly their local customers. Some larger banks have opened offices in nearby countries, but the number of these has declined since the 1990s.

There are over 100 regional banks in Japan, with some of the major ones including Hokkaido Bank, Toho Bank, Chiba Bank, and Chugoku Bank. These banks offer a range of services to their local customers, including personal and business banking, loans, and investment services.

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Some notable regional banks in Japan include the Bank of Yokohama, which is the largest regional bank in Japan and the core arm of Concordia Financial Group. Other notable regional banks include Hachijuni Bank in Nagano City, Bank of Kyoto in Kyoto, and The 77 Bank in Sendai.

Here are some of the major regional banks in Japan and the services they offer:

These regional banks have a strong presence in the Japanese banking sector, and are committed to providing personalized services to their local customers.

Community Banks

Community banks in Japan are smaller in scale compared to the megabanks, but they play a vital role in supporting local economies.

Many community banks have a long history, with some dating back to the Meiji period. They are often family-owned and operated, with a strong focus on community involvement.

Community banks typically have a smaller customer base, with a strong emphasis on building relationships with local customers. This approach allows them to offer more personalized services.

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One notable example is the Hokkaido Takushoku Bank, which was established in 1949 and has a strong presence in the Hokkaido region. It offers a range of services, including personal banking and business loans.

Community banks in Japan often have a strong focus on supporting local businesses, which can be a key factor in their success. This is evident in their lending practices, which tend to favor local companies.

The community bank model is often seen as a more sustainable option, as it allows for more localized decision-making and a stronger connection to the community.

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Mergers and Acquisitions

Japan's banking system has undergone significant consolidation since the 1990s. This process has led to the emergence of major players in the industry.

One notable example is the creation of Mizuho Financial Group in 2000, which later merged with Mizuho Bank and Mizuho Corporate Bank in 2002. This consolidation has resulted in a more streamlined banking system.

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The Bank of Tokyo-Mitsubishi UFJ was formed in 2006 as part of the Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group. This merger has enabled the group to expand its operations and services.

Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation was established in 2002, marking another significant consolidation in the industry. This bank has since become a major player in Japan's banking sector.

Resona Holdings, Resona Bank, and Saitama Resona Bank were also consolidated in 2002, leading to a more efficient banking system.

Here's a list of some notable mergers and acquisitions in Japan's banking industry:

  • Mizuho Financial Group (2000) / Mizuho Bank / Mizuho Corporate Bank (2002)
  • Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group (2005) / The Bank of Tokyo-Mitsubishi UFJ (2006)
  • Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation (2002)
  • Resona Holdings / Resona Bank / Saitama Resona Bank (2002)
  • Mitsui Trust Holdings (2002) / The Chūō Mitsui Trust and Banking Co. (2000)
  • Hokkaidō Takushoku Bank, absorbed into North Pacific Bank and The Chūō Mitsui Trust and Banking Co. (1998)

Financial Structure

Japan's financial structure is quite unique and has undergone significant changes over the years.

The banking system in Japan is classified into foreign banks and domestically licensed banks, which include regional, city, and trust banks.

In the past, traditional banks in Japan were divided into clearly defined segments: commercial banks, long-term credit banks, trust banks, and loans and savings banks.

These traditional banks offered a range of services, including consumer loans and credit cards, which were introduced in the 1980s.

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The five largest banks in Japan in terms of total assets were also major players during this time, with many opening branches across the globe and engaging in FOREX activities.

Here's a breakdown of the different types of banks in Japan:

  • Foreign banks
  • Domestically licensed banks (regional, city, and trust banks)

Here's a list of the traditional bank segments in Japan:

  • Commercial banks
  • Long-term credit banks
  • Trust banks (retail banking activities)
  • Loans and savings bank

Top Banks

Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group is the largest bank in Japan, with total assets of 304,221,637 JPY million (2,713.60 US$ billion) as of June 2017.

Japan Post Bank is the second-largest bank in Japan, with total assets of 210,253,910 JPY million (1,875.43 US$ billion) as of June 2017.

Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group is the third-largest bank in Japan, with total assets of 201,864,739 JPY million (1,800.60 US$ billion) as of June 2017.

Here are the top 5 banks in Japan by total assets:

These banks are not only the largest in Japan but also have a significant impact on the country's economy.

Banking in Specific Cities

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The Bank of Yokohama/Concordia Financial Group is the largest regional bank in southwestern Tokyo, formed to provide smoother financial services after several existing banks collapsed in the area.

It's worth noting that Tokyo's banking landscape is quite complex, but having a large regional bank like the Bank of Yokohama/Concordia Financial Group can be a great asset for locals and businesses.

The city of Chiba, adjacent to Tokyo, is home to Chiba Bank, the third largest regional bank in Japan by total assets.

Yokohama/Concordia

Yokohama/Concordia is a significant player in the banking scene in southwestern Tokyo. It's the largest regional bank in the area.

The Bank of Yokohama, the precursor to Concordia Financial Group, was formed to fill the gap left by the collapse of several existing banks in the region. This merger aimed to provide smoother financial services to the local community.

In 2015, the Bank of Yokohama merged with Higashi-Nippon Bank to create Concordia Financial Group, Ltd. As a result, Concordia Financial Group was listed on the Nikkei 225 stock market index.

Chiba

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Chiba is home to Chiba Bank, the third largest regional bank in Japan in terms of total assets. It has its headquarters in Chiba, a city adjacent to Tokyo.

Chiba Bank has a strategic focus on expanding its branch network along Tokyo-bound railway lines. This approach is designed to tap into the surrounding areas' economic growth.

One of the bank's key areas of development is southern Chiba Prefecture, where it aims to establish the region as a major tourist and resort area.

Fukuoka

Fukuoka is home to the Fukuoka Financial Group, a Japanese company listed on the Nikkei. It's a financial holding with the Shinwa Bank as a wholly-owned subsidiary.

The group's headquarters is located in Fukuoka, the largest city of Kyushu in the south of Japan. Fukuoka Financial Group operates through 330 domestic branches and 8 international offices primarily in Asia.

With over 8,100 employees, the Group includes three regional banks (Bank of Fukuoka, Kumamoto Bank and Shinwa Bank) and other subsidiaries. Its primary services are banking, which includes deposits, loans, and domestic and foreign exchange services.

The company offers additional services like guarantees, revitalization support, loans management, and collection business. In 2016, the total income of the bank was $2 billion.

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Yamaguchi

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Yamaguchi is a region in Japan with a strong banking presence. The Yamaguchi Bank is a notable institution in the area, established in 1931.

This bank offers a range of services, including personal and corporate banking, wealth management, leasing, and online banking. With a focus on serving its local community, the Yamaguchi Bank has 65 branches mainly located in the Chugoku and Shikoku regions.

The bank's total assets as of March 2020 were a significant JPY 1.8 trillion, equivalent to approximately US$17.2 billion.

Oita

Oita is a city in Oita Prefecture, where you'll find the Oita Bank, a regional bank that's been around since 1933. It offers a range of services, including foreign currency deposits, personal loans, and leasing services.

The Oita Bank has a network of 33 branches, which is a significant presence in the region. As of March 2020, the bank had total assets of JPY 838 billion (US$8.0 billion).

Fukushima

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Fukushima is home to the Fukushima Bank, a regional bank that has been operating since 1944. It's headquartered in Fukushima Prefecture and primarily serves the Tohoku region.

The Fukushima Bank offers a range of services beyond traditional banking, including leasing and credit card services. This is a great option for locals and businesses looking for specialized financial solutions.

As of March 2020, the Fukushima Bank had a total of 61 branches. This extensive network makes it easily accessible to customers across the region.

With total assets of JPY 1.46 trillion (US$14.1 billion), the Fukushima Bank is a significant player in the regional banking scene.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Which Japanese bank is best for foreigners?

For foreigners, Japan Post Bank and Shinsei Bank are top options, offering extensive services and English support. Both banks cater to expatriates with tailored services and language assistance.

Wallace Brekke

Junior Assigning Editor

Wallace Brekke is a seasoned Assigning Editor with a keen eye for detail and a passion for storytelling. With a keen interest in finance and economics, Brekke has honed their skills in assigning and editing articles on a range of topics, including market trends and commodity prices. Brekke's expertise spans a variety of categories, including gold prices and historical commodity prices.

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