One interesting difference between Japan and the West is the use of hanko, or name stamps, when indicating approval on a document, filling out forms at the bank, and so on. A custom imported from China ages ago, virtually every Japanese carries one of these unique name stamps with them. As a newly-arrived gaijin in Japan, having a name stamp meant the ability to choose an official kanji name for myself, and I remember how much fun it was registering my hanko at my local city office. There are various ways to go about assigning kanji characters to a foreigner’s name, including basing it on the pronunciation or assigning your name as an unofficial reading for the kanji that represents your name. Incidentally, J-List has a great custom name stamp service, which includes free assigning of a kanji name to you, based on your preferences. The hanko stamps are even legal for use in Japan!
For some reason, it doesn’t occur to anyone to steal your hanko stamp and withdraw all your money.
