If you want to do any business in Japan, one of the first things you are going to need is a 判子 hanko, also known as an 印鑑 inkan. These are stamp-like things that you can use to sign documents, such as for deliveries, bank accounts, other contracts, etc., and can in fact be registered with the city for signing for things like mortgages or loans.

There are some places that will accept a signature in place of a seal, but it is probably safer just to have one. I went to a shop that specializes in them and had mine engraved with my first name (written in katakana) for about $30, plus another $5 for the case, which includes some ink. It’s taken about 4 business days to make, so I’ve been waiting on this in order to complete setting up a bank account.

While I don’t imagine I’ll be using it a whole lot, it’s necessary for any time you need to deal with official documents, besides the ones you need to enter the country. It will make a nifty souvenir!