Bitbank launches Bitcoin credit card in Japan

Japan-based crypto exchange Bitbank has launched a credit card that allows users to settle bills directly in Bitcoin, marking a first for a licensed exchange in the country.

The product enables users to make purchases via standard credit card networks while repaying balances using BTC held in their Bitbank accounts, alongside a 0.5% cashback reward paid in cryptocurrency.

The launch comes as Japan’s regulatory environment opens up to deeper crypto integration, with Bitbank moving early to embed Bitcoin into everyday payment infrastructure.

The card differs from prepaid or debit crypto cards by offering full credit functionality, allowing users to spend first and settle later using digital assets rather than fiat currency.

Bitbank, licensed by Japan’s Financial Services Agency since 2017, is targeting domestic retail users who already hold Bitcoin and want to use it for daily transactions without converting to yen.

The launch follows earlier crypto card products in Japan, but Bitbank’s model reflects a shift toward fully integrated, regulated crypto payment solutions rather than standalone prepaid offerings.

At the time of reporting, Bitcoin price was $76,478.76.