Ethereum (ETH) remains one of the most widely traded cryptocurrencies globally, and for Japanese investors, bitFlyer is a trusted platform to enter the digital asset market. Whether you're a beginner or looking to refine your trading strategy, understanding how to buy and sell Ethereum on bitFlyer is essential. This guide walks you through both available methods—Altcoin Marketplace and bitFlyer Lightning—with clear, step-by-step instructions to help you trade efficiently and cost-effectively.
Understanding Your Trading Options on bitFlyer
bitFlyer offers two primary ways to trade Ethereum (ETH):
- Altcoin Marketplace (Simple Buy/Sell)
- bitFlyer Lightning (Advanced Exchange Trading)
Each method has its own advantages and ideal use cases. Let’s explore both in detail.
Method 1: Buying and Selling ETH via Altcoin Marketplace
The Altcoin Marketplace is designed for beginners and users who prioritize speed and simplicity over price optimization.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Log in to your bitFlyer account and navigate to the Altcoin Marketplace section.
- Select Ethereum (ETH) from the list of available cryptocurrencies.
You’ll see two prices displayed:
- Purchase Price (higher, for buying)
- Selling Price (lower, for selling)
- Enter the amount of ETH you wish to buy or sell in the designated field.
- Click "Buy Coin" or "Sell Coin" to execute the trade instantly.
Pros and Cons
✅ Pros:
- Instant execution—no waiting for order matching
- User-friendly interface ideal for beginners
- No need to understand market dynamics
❌ Cons:
- Higher spreads compared to market rates
- Less control over pricing
- Not ideal for large-volume traders seeking optimal prices
👉 Discover a faster, smarter way to trade crypto across global markets.
This method is perfect if you want to quickly acquire ETH without diving into complex trading mechanics. However, if you're aiming for better prices and more control, bitFlyer Lightning is the better choice.
Method 2: Trading ETH on bitFlyer Lightning
bitFlyer Lightning is a full-featured trading platform primarily used for FX and spot trading. It supports spot trading for ETH/BTC pairs, giving users access to real-time order books and tighter spreads.
Getting Started with bitFlyer Lightning
- Go to the bitFlyer Lightning section of your account.
- Ensure the trading pair is set to ETH/BTC (not BCH/BTC or others).
- You’ll see the order book (market depth chart)—a live display of buy and sell orders from other traders.
This screen shows:
- Bid prices (what buyers are willing to pay)
- Ask prices (what sellers are asking for)
- Your ability to place custom orders based on current market conditions
Placing an Order
You can choose between two order types:
- Limit Order: Set your desired price. The trade executes only when the market reaches it.
- Market Order: Buy or sell immediately at the best available price.
For most scenarios, especially when avoiding slippage, limit orders are recommended.
Example:
If ETH is trading at ¥300,000 but you believe it’s overvalued, you might place a limit buy order at ¥290,000. Once another user sells at that price, your order fills automatically.
After entering your quantity and price, click "Buy" or "Sell". Your order will appear in the order book until matched.
Tips for Success on Lightning
- Monitor price trends before placing orders
- Avoid setting extreme prices that may never execute
- Cancel unfilled orders if market conditions shift significantly
- Use small test trades first if you’re new to order books
While this method often allows you to buy cheaper and sell higher, it requires patience and basic market awareness.
Why Choose bitFlyer Lightning Over Simple Buy/Sell?
Although the Altcoin Marketplace offers convenience, experienced traders typically prefer bitFlyer Lightning for several key reasons:
🔹 Lower Fees: Narrower spreads mean reduced trading costs
🔹 Price Control: You decide the exact entry and exit points
🔹 Better Returns: Over time, optimized trades lead to higher profits
🔹 Scalability: Ideal for larger transactions where every basis point counts
As you gain confidence, transitioning to Lightning can significantly improve your trading performance.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is bitFlyer safe for buying Ethereum?
Yes, bitFlyer is one of Japan’s most regulated and secure cryptocurrency exchanges. It complies with Financial Services Agency (FSA) regulations, uses cold storage for assets, and offers insurance against theft.
Q: Can I buy ETH with Japanese Yen on bitFlyer?
Absolutely. Both the Altcoin Marketplace and bitFlyer Lightning allow direct JPY deposits and ETH purchases using yen.
Q: What are the fees for trading ETH on bitFlyer?
The Altcoin Marketplace includes a built-in spread (markup). On bitFlyer Lightning, trading fees range from 0.01% to 0.1%, depending on your monthly volume and whether you’re a maker or taker.
Q: Do I need verification to trade ETH?
Yes. To comply with Japanese financial regulations, all users must complete identity verification (KYC) before trading.
Q: Can I transfer ETH from bitFlyer to an external wallet?
Yes. Once you own ETH, you can withdraw it to any compatible wallet. Be sure to double-check addresses and network types (ERC-20) before sending.
Q: Is there a mobile app for trading ETH on bitFlyer?
Yes. bitFlyer offers iOS and Android apps with full functionality for buying, selling, and monitoring ETH prices on the go.
👉 Access advanced trading tools and global liquidity with a leading crypto platform.
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Method for You
If you're just starting out, the Altcoin Marketplace provides a stress-free way to buy Ethereum instantly. But as your experience grows, switching to bitFlyer Lightning unlocks better pricing, greater flexibility, and a deeper understanding of market dynamics.
Regardless of your chosen method, always:
- Keep your account secure with two-factor authentication (2FA)
- Start with small amounts when trying new features
- Stay informed about market trends and regulatory updates
With practice, you’ll be able to navigate both platforms confidently—and make smarter decisions that align with your financial goals.
👉 Start trading ETH with powerful tools and deep liquidity today.
Remember: While bitFlyer serves Japanese users exceptionally well, global platforms like OKX offer additional features such as staking, derivatives, and broader altcoin selection—worth exploring as part of a diversified crypto strategy.