Japan’s crypto market takes a practical step forward as Bitbank and Epos Card introduce a new way to pay with digital assets. The EPOS CRYPTO Card for bitbank, launched on April 27, 2026, allows users to settle credit card bills using bitcoin held in their Bitbank accounts. This Visa-branded card is being promoted as the first in Japan to directly link a crypto exchange balance with credit card repayments.
How the Crypto Credit Card Works
Cardholders can choose how they want to pay each month. They may use a traditional bank account or select their Bitbank crypto balance. If they choose crypto, the system converts bitcoin into yen at Bitbank’s set rate to cover the bill.
Key features include:
- Payment flexibility between fiat and crypto
- Support for bitcoin settlements at launch
- Global usability through Visa’s merchant network
- Mandatory Bitbank account verification for applicants
This setup removes extra steps. Users no longer need to manually sell crypto, transfer funds, and then pay bills.
Rewards and Incentives for Users
The card also introduces a crypto rewards system. Users earn 0.5% of their spending back in digital assets. They can select rewards in bitcoin, ether, or Astar each month.
Additional incentives include:
- ¥2,000 worth of crypto for new cardholders
- Up to ¥4,000 in crypto through launch campaigns
- No annual fee, making it accessible to beginners
These benefits aim to attract younger, tech-savvy consumers interested in digital finance.
Challenges and Market Impact
Despite its innovation, the card has limits. Since bitcoin is sold during bill payments, users may face tax implications. Price volatility can also affect how much BTC is needed at payment time. Furthermore, the card does not support direct crypto purchases.
Even so, this launch signals a shift in Japan’s crypto industry. Companies are moving beyond trading and focusing on real-world utility. Bitbank and Epos are positioning themselves at the center of this transition, blending traditional finance with digital assets.
