Top 5 Most Popular Mobile Banking Apps in Japan

With the widespread use of smartphones, everyday banking tasks can now be easily handled through mobile apps. In Japan, most banks offer their own dedicated mobile apps, allowing users to check balances, make transfers, and manage their accounts all from a single smartphone. When selecting an app, key factors to consider include ease of use, security, and integration features. These apps continue to evolve to meet the changing needs of users. In this article, we highlight the top 5 most popular mobile banking apps in Japan, clearly outlining their features and which types of users they are best suited for.

Top 5 Most Popular Mobile Banking Apps in Japan

1. SBI Sumishin Net Bank
2. Sony Bank
3. au Jibun Bank
4. Rakuten Bank
5. PayPay Bank

1. SBI Sumishin Net Bank

Source: SBI Sumishin Net Bank Homepage

The SBI Sumishin Net Bank mobile app is renowned for its high convenience, enabling users to manage everything from daily transactions to asset management with just their smartphone. One standout feature is "Smart Authentication NEO," which uses biometric authentication to ensure secure logins and transactions. The app also lets users create up to ten separate accounts for different purposes, making it ideal for those who want to manage their savings and finances more efficiently. Another popular feature is the "Hybrid Deposit" option, which offers better interest rates when linked with SBI Securities. With a certain number of free ATM withdrawals at partner ATMs, the app is also cost-friendly, earning high marks for its overall usability.

2. Sony Bank

Source: Sony Bank Homepage

The Sony Bank mobile app is widely praised for its intuitive interface and extensive range of features. It is especially popular for foreign currency deposits, thanks to its low exchange fees and attractive promotional offers, which have earned it the top spot in foreign currency deposit campaign rankings. The bank also ranks first for its home loan services, with users appreciating the smooth, fully online application process and competitive interest rates. With these strengths, Sony Bank’s app has become a trusted and user-friendly option for those considering foreign currency savings or home loans.

3. au Jibun Bank

Source: au Jibun Bank Homepage

The mobile app of au Jibun Bank offers a wide range of unique services made possible through its strong connection with the KDDI Group. One of its standout features is the "Transfer by Phone Number" function, which enables users to send money using only the recipient’s phone number, provided they also have an au Jibun Bank account. This level of convenience is not commonly found in other banking apps. The app also integrates smoothly with au PAY and Ponta Points, making it a powerful tool for supporting a cashless lifestyle. Additionally, users can easily manage foreign currency and time deposits directly within the app. These features have earned it strong support, especially among au mobile users.

4. Rakuten Bank

Source: Rakuten Bank Homepage

The Rakuten Bank mobile app stands out for its high level of convenience, allowing users to handle everything from daily banking to asset management on a single smartphone. One of its key strengths is its seamless integration with Rakuten Group services, allowing users to earn and utilize Rakuten Points for more rewarding transactions and simplified everyday payments. The app's intuitive interface makes tasks like transfers and balance checks simple, even for beginners. In terms of security, features such as biometric authentication and one-time passwords help ensure safe usage. Users can also easily manage time deposits and foreign currency accounts directly through the app, making it an excellent choice for those looking to start managing their assets. Thanks to these features, the Rakuten Bank app receives consistently high praise from its users.

5. PayPay Bank

Source: PayPay Bank Homepage

The PayPay Bank mobile app stands out for its strong compatibility with smartphone payment systems. Its smooth integration with PayPay is a significant advantage, allowing users to quickly complete tasks like charging, sending money, and checking balances all within the app. The interface is simple and easy to navigate, making it accessible for anyone, even during busy days. Secure login with biometric authentication ensures safety for mobile banking. In addition, the app offers benefits such as reduced transfer fees and various features for managing finances, enhancing the overall mobile banking experience. It is especially popular among users who frequently use cashless payments, earning high marks for both practicality and convenience.

Conclusion

The mobile banking apps introduced here are all highly rated and widely used across Japan. Each app offers a unique combination of features, from user-friendly interfaces and robust transfer functions to strong security measures and added value services such as point integration and foreign currency deposits. These differences help each app stand out in its own way. As smartphone-centered lifestyles become the norm, it is clear that banking convenience is evolving rapidly through mobile technology. We hope this comparison gives you a helpful overview of current trends in digital banking in Japan and offers insight into what features users value most.