XRP has overtaken Ethereum 
$1,971 to become the most traded altcoin in Japan. According to data released by SBI Group, one of the largest cryptocurrency exchanges in the country, the trading volume of the XRP/JPY pair surpassed that of ETH/JPY last month. This development is a concrete indication of XRP’s long-standing popularity in Japan.
XRP’s Growing Impact in Japan’s Banking Sector
Japan is experiencing a noteworthy shift in its financial landscape. Reports indicate that around 80% of the country’s banks are preparing for XRP integration this year. This preparation process further solidifies the coin’s position in the market.
According to SBI VC Trade’s data, XRP’s trading volume clearly outshines Ethereum, while Solana 
$84 and Dogecoin 
$0.100152 rank fourth and fifth respectively. The fact that XRP has captured Ethereum’s long-held second position signals a significant shift in Japanese investor behavior.
Ripple’s strategic partnerships in Japan have laid the foundation for this success. Through strong relationships with Japanese banks and large enterprises, XRP has been adopted as a reliable investment vehicle in the country.
The Backstory of XRP’s Rise in Japan
SBI Group CEO Yoshitaka Kitao has drawn attention with his supportive remarks about XRP. Kitao highlights the practical advantages of XRP in international money transfers while criticizing Bitcoin 
$68,561 as an asset lacking “intrinsic value.”
According to Kitao, XRP’s incorporation into daily life is key to its long-term success. The rapid adoption of the altcoin by banks in Japan makes this perspective increasingly visible.
Additionally, XRP has been made available through Mercoin, one of Japan’s popular shopping applications. The broad user base of Mercoin has helped the popular altcoin gain recognition among individuals purchasing cryptocurrencies for the first time. Emi Yoshikawa, a former Ripple 
$1 executive, noted that a significant portion of Mercoin users comprises newcomers to the cryptocurrency market. This presents an opportunity for XRP to strengthen its position in Japan by reaching new audiences.
