Cashing out USDT (Tether) to Japanese yen can seem complex, especially for beginners. But with the right approach, you can efficiently convert your digital assets while minimizing fees and avoiding common pitfalls. This guide walks you through two reliable methods to convert USDT to JPY—using MetaMask with a domestic exchange, or combining an overseas and domestic exchange. We’ll also cover essential tools, step-by-step procedures, and key considerations like transaction costs and tax implications.
Understanding USDT and Its Role
USDT (Tether) is a stablecoin pegged 1:1 to the U.S. dollar, making it one of the most stable and widely used cryptocurrencies in the blockchain ecosystem. It’s commonly used for trading, remittances, and preserving value across platforms. However, Japanese exchanges do not support direct USDT trading, meaning users must convert it into another cryptocurrency before cashing out.
To successfully withdraw USDT to yen, you'll need either a crypto wallet like MetaMask or access to both overseas and domestic exchanges. The method you choose will depend on where your USDT is stored and how much you want to optimize for speed, cost, and convenience.
👉 Discover secure ways to manage and exchange USDT
Comparison: USDT to JPY Conversion Methods & Fees
Because direct USDT-to-JPY trading isn’t available in Japan, you’ll need to use an intermediary cryptocurrency such as BNB (Binance Coin) or XRP (Ripple). Here's a breakdown of the two most effective routes:
Option 1: MetaMask + Domestic Exchange (e.g., bitbank)
Ideal if:
- Your USDT is already in MetaMask
- You're using BNB Smart Chain (BEP20)
- You prefer fewer platform switches
| Step | Fee | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Swap USDT to BNB in MetaMask | ~0.875% + gas (~0.001 BNB) | Gas fees fluctuate |
| 2. Send BNB to bitbank | ~0.001 BNB gas fee | Only BEP20 network supported |
| 3. Sell BNB for JPY | Maker: -0.02%, Taker: 0.12% | Use limit orders to reduce cost |
| 4. Withdraw JPY to bank | ¥550–¥770 | Free for under ¥30,000; ¥770 above |
Total Estimated Cost: ~0.002 BNB + ¥550 + trading spread
While this method avoids overseas exchanges, bitbank charges withdrawal fees, which adds up over time.
Option 2: Overseas Exchange (MEXC) + Domestic Exchange (GMO Coin)
Best if:
- You want lower overall fees
- Your USDT is on Ethereum, Polygon, or other networks
- You're open to using a trusted international platform
This route uses MEXC (a user-friendly overseas exchange) to convert USDT into XRP, then sends XRP to GMO Coin for JPY conversion.
Why XRP?
- Supported by major Japanese exchanges
- Low network fees
- Fast settlement (typically under 5 minutes)
Advantages:
- No Japanese yen withdrawal fees on GMO Coin
- Supports multiple blockchain networks
- Competitive trading fees
👉 Explore low-fee international exchanges for crypto conversion
Method 1: Convert USDT via MetaMask + bitbank
Step 1: Swap USDT to BNB in MetaMask
Ensure your MetaMask wallet has enough BNB for gas fees (minimum ~0.005 BNB recommended). If not, buy small amounts via a Japanese exchange like bitbank and send them to your wallet.
- Open MetaMask and select the BNB Smart Chain network.
- Click “Swap” → Choose USDT as the source token.
- Select BNB as the target.
- Enter the amount, review the exchange rate and estimated gas fee.
- Confirm the swap.
Once completed, your BNB balance should increase accordingly.
⚠️ Always double-check network selection—sending via ERC-20 or Polygon will result in lost funds if unsupported.
Step 2: Send BNB to bitbank
- Log in to bitbank, go to Assets > Deposit > BNB.
- Select BEP20 (BNB Smart Chain) and copy the deposit address.
- In MetaMask, click “Send” → Paste the address → Enter BNB amount.
- Confirm transaction.
Funds usually arrive within minutes.
✅ Minimum deposit: 0.01 BNB
❌ No deposit fees
For detailed visuals and troubleshooting, refer to official deposit guides.
Step 3: Sell BNB for JPY on bitbank
Avoid the spot market (tobidashi) due to high spreads. Instead:
- Go to Exchange > BNB/JPY.
- Tap Sell > Limit Order.
- Set price slightly below current market value for faster execution.
- Confirm order.
Once matched, the proceeds appear in your JPY balance.
Finally, withdraw yen to your bank account:
- Under ¥30,000: ¥550 fee
- Over ¥30,000: ¥770 flat rate
Method 2: MEXC + GMO Coin Route (Recommended)
What You’ll Need
- MEXC Account: A globally accessible exchange supporting multiple blockchains.
- GMO Coin Account: Top-tier Japanese exchange with zero JPY withdrawal fees.
Both platforms are beginner-friendly and offer mobile apps.
👉 Start trading on a secure global platform
Step 1: Transfer USDT from MetaMask to MEXC
- Log in to MEXC Web (app not available in Japan).
- Navigate to Assets > Deposit > On-chain Deposit.
- Select USDT and choose the correct network (e.g., BSC for BEP20).
- Copy the deposit address.
Back in MetaMask:
- Select USDT → “Send”
- Paste MEXC address
- Confirm with gas fee (~0.001–0.003 BNB)
Transfer time: Typically 2–5 minutes.
🔐 Never send from unsupported networks—double-check contract compatibility.
Step 2: Convert USDT to XRP on MEXC
- Go to Trade > Spot Trading.
- Search for XRP/USDT pair.
- Under “Buy XRP”, enter amount and desired price.
- Click Buy XRP → Confirm.
Your XRP will appear in your MEXC wallet shortly.
Step 3: Send XRP to GMO Coin
- On GMO Coin, generate an XRP deposit address (supports memo/tag).
- In MEXC, go to Assets > Withdraw > XRP.
- Paste address + memo, enter amount, confirm withdrawal.
Note: Minimum withdrawal varies (~1–5 XRP), and processing takes 3–10 minutes.
After arrival, manually verify the deposit source in GMO Coin settings for balance activation.
Step 4: Sell XRP for JPY on GMO Coin
- Open app → Switch to Trader Mode.
- Go to Spot Market > XRP/JPY.
- Tap Sell > Limit Order.
- Input quantity and price slightly below market rate for quick matching.
- Confirm order.
Proceeds are instantly available in JPY—withdraw freely with no fees.
Earn Yield on USDT While You Wait
If you're not in a rush to cash out, consider lending your USDT to earn passive income.
Platforms like BitLending allow users to lend USDT at up to 10% annual interest, with:
- Minimum: 200 USDT
- Term: 1 month minimum
- Repayment: Within 7 business days after request
Other supported coins include BTC, ETH, USDC, and DAI at similar rates.
This strategy works well if you’re accumulating funds or waiting for favorable market conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I cash out USDT directly on Coincheck or Bitflyer?
No. Neither Coincheck nor Bitflyer supports direct USDT deposits or trading. You must first convert USDT into a supported cryptocurrency like XRP or BNB before transferring and selling.
Are there taxes when converting USDT to JPY?
Yes. Profits from cryptocurrency conversions are considered taxable income in Japan under “miscellaneous income.” Keep records of all transactions for annual tax filing.
Where can I check USDT price and charts?
Use trusted platforms like CoinMarketCap or TradingView to monitor real-time USDT/USD or USDT/JPY rates. Since USDT is a stablecoin, its value should remain close to $1 or ¥150–¥160 depending on forex rates.
What are the contract addresses for USDT?
Always verify contracts before sending:
- BSC (BEP20):
0x55d398326f99059ff775485246999027b3197955 - Ethereum (ERC-20):
0xdac17f958d2ee523a2206206994597c13d831ec7 - Polygon:
0xc2132d05d31c914a87c6611c10748aeb04b58e8f
Using wrong addresses may result in permanent loss.
Why isn’t my XRP showing up on GMO Coin?
After depositing XRP, you may need to submit a deposit source form in GMO Coin’s settings—especially if sending from certain overseas exchanges. Processing typically takes less than an hour once verified.
Can I convert USDT directly to Bitcoin?
Yes—on most international exchanges like MEXC or OKX, you can trade USDT for BTC directly. However, since BTC isn’t ideal for fast fiat conversion in Japan, it's better suited for investment rather than immediate cash-out purposes.
With these strategies, even beginners can confidently convert USDT to Japanese yen efficiently and securely. Whether you prioritize simplicity or cost savings, choosing the right method makes all the difference.