bitFlyer
Registered crypto exchange · bitFlyer
- Fees
- Varies
- English
- Partial
An FSA-registered, JVCEA-member crypto exchange serving Japanese residents, commonly cited for a long operating history.
Choosing a registered crypto exchange
Why FSA registration matters and how to avoid unregulated platforms and scams.
Direct answers
Use only FSA-registered, JVCEA-member exchanges (e.g. bitFlyer, bitbank); unregistered offshore platforms remove your protections and are common in scams.
Key points
- Only FSA-registered, JVCEA-member exchanges may serve residents.
- Check the FSA registered list before depositing.
- Unregistered offshore platforms remove legal protections.
- Guaranteed returns and “recovery” services are scams.
Why registration matters
Only exchanges registered with the FSA and belonging to the JVCEA may legally serve residents of Japan, and registration brings custody, segregation, and consumer-protection obligations. Using an unregistered offshore exchange removes those protections, can complicate tax and withdrawals, and is often how fraud operates. Always confirm an exchange appears on the FSA’s registered list before depositing funds.
Avoiding scams
Treat any offer of guaranteed or unusually high returns as a scam — legitimate crypto has no guaranteed return. Be wary of fake exchange apps, social-media “investment coaches,” romance-investment approaches, and especially “recovery” services that promise to retrieve lost funds for a fee (a common second scam targeting victims). Withdraw test amounts first, enable strong security, and never send crypto to someone who contacted you.
Who this is for
- People starting with crypto in Japan
- Anyone verifying an exchange is legitimate
What this is not
- Recommendations of specific coins
- Trading strategy
Important cautions
- Never use an unregistered exchange; guaranteed-return offers are always scams.
Related products & services
bitbank
Registered crypto exchange · bitbank
- Fees
- Varies
- English
- Partial
An FSA-registered, JVCEA-member crypto exchange serving Japanese residents, often noted for its trading interface.
Frequently asked questions
Which crypto exchanges are legal to use in Japan?
Only exchanges registered with the Financial Services Agency (FSA) and belonging to the JVCEA may legally serve residents of Japan — examples include bitFlyer, bitbank, and Coincheck. Using an unregistered offshore exchange means you lose Japanese legal and consumer protections and can complicate tax and withdrawals. Always confirm an exchange is on the FSA’s registered list before depositing funds.
How does FX (margin) leverage work for retail traders in Japan?
Domestic retail FX leverage is capped by regulation, commonly at 25x, which limits how large a position your deposit can control. Leverage amplifies both gains and losses, and sharp moves can trigger margin calls or losses beyond your deposit. FX is high-risk and unsuitable for money you cannot lose. Watch for unregulated offshore brokers offering much higher leverage — they remove your protections and are often used in scams.