A Guide to the Japanese Hanko: What It Is & How to Get One

One Coin English Team

5 months ago

If you’ve ever tried to open a bank account, sign a lease, or register at city hall in Japan, you’ve probably come across the word hanko. Also known as an inkan or Japanese seal, this small stamp can carry a surprising amount of power, essentially replacing a signature in many formal contexts. Whether you’re new to Japan, planning a move, or simply curious about the culture, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the hanko system: what it is, how to obtain one, and whether you really need one as a foreigner.

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What Is a Hanko?

A hanko (also called an inkan) is a personal seal used in Japan to sign official documents. Instead of putting pen to paper, people use a stamp carved with their name, usually in kanji, katakana, or sometimes roman letters.

These seals are used in both everyday life and formal settings. Whether you’re picking up a parcel, opening a bank account, or signing a work contract, chances are you’ll come across a place where a hanko is expected.

Do Foreigners Really Need a Hanko?

In short, not always, but it is useful to have. These days, handwritten or digital signatures are becoming more accepted, especially since the pandemic pushed a lot of paperwork online. But certain offices, banks, and companies still expect a traditional Japanese seal.

You might be asked to use your hanko if you plan to:

Open a bank account
Rent an apartment
Sign an employment contract

Even when it’s not absolutely required, having one can save you time and make official processes smoother. Plus, it’s kind of fun to have your own personalized seal! It is a historical part of Japanese culture.

Where Can You Get a Hanko?

Getting a hanko is easier than you might think. Here are some options based on your budget and how fast you need it:

Hanko Shops (判子屋 or 印鑑屋)
These speciality shops are great if you want something custom-made. You can choose the material, font style, and have it made in under 30 minutes.
Online Shops
Websites like Hankoya.com or Inkan Hanko Shop offer customization in English and can ship to your home.

3. Big Stores like Don Quijote or Bic Camera
These stores often sell pre-made hanko, usually with common katakana names. They’re perfect for casual use, and prices start at around ¥500.

Types of Hanko

There are a few different types of inkan, depending on how official the task is:

Jitsuin (実印): Your official personal seal, registered with the city hall. It’s used for big things like buying property or signing important contracts.
Ginkō-in (銀行印): Used just for banking. You’ll need this when opening a Japanese bank account.
Mitome-in (認印): Informal seal used for receiving packages or internal office documents.

For most foreigners, a Mitome-in or Ginkō-in will cover everything unless you’re buying property or starting a business.

Materials and Sizes

Hanko come in all sorts of materials, which affect their price and durability:

Wood (tsuge) – Traditional and affordable
Plastic – Lightweight and budget-friendly
Horn (water buffalo) – Durable and often used for official seals
Metal or Titanium – Sleek, strong, and long-lasting

As for size, personal hanko usually range from 10.5 mm to 15 mm in diameter. A good all-purpose size is around 13.5 mm, especially if you’re planning to register it at the city office.

Can I Design My Own Hanko?

Many stores and online services allow you to customize your hanko‘s look. You can choose the font style, layout, and even include your name in katakana or romaji. Just make sure the design is clear enough for legal use, especially if you plan to register it.

How to Register Your Hanko

If you’re getting a jitsuin, it must be registered at your local city or ward office:

Bring your residence card and the hanko you want to register.
Fill out a short application form.
Receive a certificate called an inkan shōmei-sho (印鑑証明書).

This certificate proves that your seal is officially recognized, and you’ll need it for anything legally binding, like a housing or loan contract. Depending on which area you live, there may be a small fee between 100-300 yen.

Are Hanko Still Used in 2025?

While Japan is slowly digitizing, the hanko still holds cultural and legal weight. In many companies, schools, and government offices, it’s still the standard way to sign documents.

That said, things are changing. Many banks now allow online applications without a personal seal. But having a hanko on hand, especially if you’re staying long-term, is still a smart choice.

Final Tips for First-Time Hanko Users

Use katakana if your name doesn’t translate easily to kanji. Some stores may be able to make hanko with alphabet.
Check if your company or landlord requires a registered seal.
Don’t lend your inkan to others, it’s legally binding!
Keep your certificate (inkan shōmei-sho) somewhere safe because it’s as important as the seal itself.

Final Thoughts: Should You Get One?

If you’re planning on living in Japan for more than a few months, getting a hanko is a small but smart investment. It helps with everything from banking to housing, and it gives you a little cultural insight along the way.

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