Bitbank Launches Japan’s First Crypto-Backed Credit Card

Bitbank and EPOS Card launch Japan’s first crypto-linked credit card, offering 0.5% crypto cashback on everyday purchases via Visa.

Japan’s cryptocurrency sector just hit a new milestone. Bitbank Co., Ltd. has teamed up with EPOS Card Co., Ltd. to launch the “EPOS CRYPTO Card for bitbank.” 

The card went live on April 27, 2026. 

It is reportedly the first credit card in Japan allowing users to pay directly from crypto exchange assets. The partnership brings together two companies with distinct but complementary financial goals.

Related reading: 

Japan Gets Its First Crypto Credit Card

Bitbank operates the popular cryptocurrency exchange “bitbank.” The Tokyo-based company has built its reputation on security, citing zero hacking incidents since its founding. 

EPOS Card, meanwhile, is a fintech arm of the Marui Group, focused on expanding financial access across different income levels and age groups.

Together, the two companies developed a card that bridges crypto holdings and everyday spending. 

Users can now draw from their exchange balance for credit card payments. That removes a step many crypto holders face when converting assets before spending.

The card also offers 0.5% crypto cashback on purchases. This reward structure adds another layer of utility for existing bitbank users.

Visa Backs the Crypto Payment Push in Japan

The card runs on Visa’s payment network. Seetan Kitney, President and CEO of Visa Worldwide Japan Co., Ltd., acknowledged the launch publicly. 

Kitney noted that the move connects cryptocurrencies with everyday payment experiences more directly.

Visa sees this as part of a broader effort to expand financial access. The company stated it would continue working with issuers to drive innovation. Its role here focuses on providing a reliable and secure payment infrastructure.

This backing adds credibility to the product. It also signals that major payment networks are actively supporting crypto-integrated financial tools in Japan.

Read also: 

Crypto Adoption in Japan Gains Practical Ground

Japan’s regulatory environment around crypto is actively evolving. 

Authorities are working toward transitioning cryptocurrency oversight under the Financial Instruments and Exchange Act. This shift has increased public interest in crypto as a tool for asset building.

Both Bitbank and EPOS Card cite this growing interest as part of why the partnership made sense. Bitbank’s focus on an open financial society aligns with EPOS Card’s push for inclusive financial services. The card reflects both priorities.

Looking ahead, both companies plan to expand supported cryptocurrencies and digital asset types. They also aim to grow the payment and reward services tied to the card. 

The goal, as stated by both parties, is making digital assets more practical for daily use in Japan.

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