What is Coincheck?
Coincheck is a cryptocurrency exchange under Monex Group, and one of the exchanges handling the most cryptocurrencies in Japan. Founded in 2014, it has been supported by a wide range of users from beginners to advanced traders thanks to its user-friendly app interface and extensive cryptocurrency listings.
Basic Information
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Operating Company | Coincheck, Inc. |
| Parent Company | Monex Group, Inc. |
| Founded | 2014 |
| Registration Number | Kanto Local Finance Bureau No. 00014 |
| Number of Listed Currencies | 30+ types |
| Minimum Trade Amount | From 500 yen (~$3.50) |
Coincheck History
- 2014: Service launch
- January 2018: NEM hack incident (approximately $530 million worth)
- April 2018: Acquired by Monex Group
- 2019: Official registration as crypto asset exchange operator by FSA
- 2021: Launch of NFT marketplace "Coincheck NFT"
- 2022 onwards: Enhanced security, expanded cryptocurrency listings
Listed Cryptocurrencies
Coincheck handles one of the most extensive cryptocurrency lineups in Japan.
Main Listed Currencies (As of January 2026)
| Category | Currencies | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Major Currencies | BTC, ETH, XRP | High trading volume and liquidity |
| Platform Tokens | SOL, ADA, DOT, ATOM | Smart contract capable |
| DeFi Tokens | LINK, UNI, AAVE | Decentralized finance related |
| Meme/Others | DOGE, SHIB | Community-driven |
| Stablecoins | DAI | Price-stable |
Trading Methods
- Sales Counter: Direct buy/sell with Coincheck (with spread)
- Exchange: Peer-to-peer trading (only some currencies like BTC, ETH, XRP)
Currencies available on the exchange have lower fees, but the selection is limited. For large purchases, consider using the exchange feature.
Fee Structure
Let's review Coincheck's various fees.
Deposit/Withdrawal Fees
| Item | Fee |
|---|---|
| Bank Transfer Deposit | Free (bank transfer fee self-paid) |
| Convenience Store Deposit | 770-1,018 yen |
| Quick Deposit | From 770 yen |
| JPY Withdrawal | 407 yen |
Trading Fees
| Trading Method | Fee | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sales Counter | Free (spread applies) | Effective 0.1-5% |
| Exchange | Free | Select currencies like BTC, ETH |
Crypto Transfer Fees
| Currency | Transfer Fee |
|---|---|
| BTC | 0.0005 BTC |
| ETH | 0.005 ETH |
| XRP | 0.15 XRP |
| SOL | 0.01 SOL |
About Spread
Trading at the sales counter incurs a "spread" (difference between buy and sell prices).
- BTC: Approximately 0.1-0.5%
- ETH: Approximately 0.5-1.5%
- Other Altcoins: Approximately 1-5%
Security Measures
Since the 2018 NEM hack incident, Coincheck has significantly enhanced its security.
Main Security Measures
- Cold Wallet Storage: Majority of customer assets stored offline
- Multi-Signature: Transfers require multiple signatures
- Two-Factor Authentication: Supports SMS and Google Authenticator
- SSL Encryption: Encrypted communications
- 24/7 Monitoring: Constant monitoring for unauthorized access
- Segregated Management: Customer assets separated from company assets
User-Side Security Settings
- Always enable two-factor authentication
- Don't share passwords with other services
- Watch out for phishing scams (verify official URLs)
- Move large assets to your own wallet
Unique Services
Coincheck offers various services beyond trading.
Coincheck NFT
A marketplace where you can buy and sell NFTs (Non-Fungible Tokens).
- Purchase NFTs without gas fees
- Popular domestic and international NFT projects available
- Easy purchase with cryptocurrency
Coincheck Savings
A service for automatic monthly cryptocurrency purchases.
- Start saving from 10,000 yen per month
- Reduce price volatility risk with dollar-cost averaging
- Automatic purchase via direct debit
Coincheck IEO
A service to participate in presales of new cryptocurrencies.
- Only carefully selected projects
- Opportunity to purchase before listing
- Fair participation through lottery system
Crypto Lending
A service to earn interest by lending your cryptocurrency.
- Up to approximately 5% annual rate
- Supports major currencies like BTC, ETH
- Choose your deposit period
Account Opening Process
Opening an account at Coincheck can be completed same-day via smartphone.
Requirements
- Smartphone (iOS/Android)
- ID document (Driver's license, My Number card, etc.)
- Email address
- Bank account
Opening Steps
- Download App: From App Store/Google Play
- Email Registration: Verify authentication email
- Phone Number Verification: Enter SMS verification code
- ID Document Submission: Take photo and upload via smartphone
- Selfie Verification: Match face with ID document
- Review Complete: Same day to several days
- Deposit and Start Trading: Deposit via bank transfer and start trading
Pros and Cons Summary
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| One of the most cryptocurrency listings in Japan | Sales counter spread is somewhat wide |
| User-friendly app | Limited exchange-supported currencies |
| Enhanced credibility under Monex Group | Withdrawal fees apply |
| Rich additional services like NFT and savings | No leverage trading |
| Purchase from 500 yen | - |
Coincheck is a suitable exchange for beginners starting cryptocurrency investment. The extensive cryptocurrency listings and user-friendly app are attractive, but for frequent trading, we recommend utilizing the exchange feature considering fees.
Cryptocurrency investment carries the risk of losing principal. Please make investment decisions based on your own research and judgment.
References
3- Information for crypto-asset users (opens in a new tab) Financial Services Agency of Japan