Seeing the rise of Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies, you might be thinking, "I want to get in on this! I want to make a profit!" But for many, the biggest hurdle is figuring out which crypto exchange is the right one to start with.
It's true, choosing an account that fits your needs from the many available can be a daunting task.
This guide introduces the best crypto exchanges for beginners in Japan, carefully selected based on five key criteria: the number of tradable assets, trading fees, smartphone app usability, chart functionality, and the availability of leverage trading.
By reading this article, even if you're unsure which exchange to choose, you'll be able to find the one that's best for you.
What to Look For in a Crypto Exchange
Selecting the right platform is crucial. The most important factor is overall strength and reliability, not just one single feature.
A high-quality exchange offers a robust combination of security, a wide range of services, user-friendly tools, and competitive fees, ensuring it can serve you well as a main account for the long term.
Key Selection Criteria
When comparing exchanges, focus on these six essential points:
- Low Fees: Consider all associated costs, including trading, deposit, and withdrawal fees.
- High Trading Volume (Liquidity): Higher volume generally means easier order execution and better prices, especially for larger trades.
- Variety of Trade Types: Does it support spot trading, leverage trading, crypto lending, or automated accumulation plans?
- Number of Tradable Assets: A wider selection provides more investment opportunities and flexibility.
- App & Tool Usability: The platform and mobile app should be intuitive and easy to navigate.
- Strong Security: Prioritize exchanges with a proven track record of security, using practices like cold wallet storage for customer funds.
Top Recommended Crypto Exchanges
Based on a comprehensive analysis of the above factors, here are some of the most highly regarded exchanges for beginners in Japan.
For Overall Excellence
Often ranked highly for its all-around service, this exchange is known for its strong security as part of a major internet group, a wide array of tradable cryptocurrencies, and powerful trading tools for both beginners and advanced users. Its mobile app receives particular praise for its ease of use. It supports spot trading, leverage trading, crypto accumulation plans, and lending services, making it a versatile choice for a primary account.
For Bitcoin Trading
A well-established and highly trusted exchange with one of the largest user bases in Japan. It boasts top-level Bitcoin trading volume, ensuring high liquidity. It offers a balanced service with a good number of tradable assets, a user-friendly app, and strong security measures.
For Leverage Trading
Operated by a major financial group, this exchange brings a high level of trust and reliability. It offers a solid range of services including spot trading, leverage trading, and crypto lending. It's a strong choice for those particularly interested in leveraged positions.
For a Wide Range of Altcoins
This platform stands out for its extensive selection of cryptocurrencies, one of the largest in Japan. It's an excellent choice for investors looking beyond Bitcoin to trade various altcoins. The exchange is also noted for its exceptionally user-friendly smartphone app.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: I'm a complete beginner. What's the very first step?
A: The first step is to choose a reputable exchange and open an account. The process is usually quick and done online. You'll need to provide identification for verification purposes, a standard security procedure known as KYC (Know Your Customer).
Q: Can I start with a small amount of money?
A: Absolutely. Most Japanese exchanges allow you to start trading with a very small initial investment, often as low as 500 or 1000 yen. This makes it accessible for beginners to start learning without a significant financial commitment.
Q: Is it safe to keep my cryptocurrency on an exchange?
A: Reputable exchanges invest heavily in security, including cold storage for the majority of user funds. However, for significant long-term holdings, moving crypto to a private wallet you control is generally considered the safest option. For active trading, using a trusted exchange is standard practice.
Q: What's the difference between a "Sales" platform and an "Exchange" platform?
A: On a "Sales" platform, you buy and sell directly from the exchange itself at a quoted price (which includes a spread). It's simple and instant. On an "Exchange" platform, you trade with other users on an order book, which can sometimes offer better prices but may require more understanding of how order books work.
Q: Should I open more than one exchange account?
A: Many experienced traders use multiple exchanges. Different platforms offer different coins, fee structures, and services. Having accounts at more than one can give you access to a wider range of opportunities and better rates. Since account opening is free, it's a common strategy.
How to Open an Account
Opening a crypto exchange account in Japan is a straightforward process that can often be completed in minutes:
- Register: Visit the exchange's website, provide your email address, and set a password.
- Provide Personal Information: Fill in your details like name, address, and phone number.
- Verify Your Identity (KYC): Submit a photo of a government-issued ID (like a driver's license or passport) and sometimes a selfie holding that ID. This is a mandatory regulatory step.
- Deposit Funds: Once verified, you can deposit Japanese Yen via bank transfer to start trading.
👉 Find a secure exchange to begin your journey
Final Thoughts
With numerous options available, it might feel overwhelming to choose. For your first account, prioritizing a platform with strong overall capabilities is recommended. Remember, you are not limited to just one exchange; many users have accounts with several platforms to access different features and assets.
All the exchanges mentioned here allow for free account opening, so we encourage you to explore their offerings and find the one that best aligns with your investment goals. Start your crypto journey by taking that first step today.