Mitsui Bank - The First Private Bank in Japanese History

This research examines the formation and development of Mitsui Bank (established in 1876) – the first private bank in Japanese history. Set against the backdrop of the fierce power transition from the Tokugawa Shogunate to the Meiji government, the article clarifies how the Mitsui family transitioned from a traditional money exchange system into a modern capitalist financial institution. Through the analysis of the landmark decisions of two key figures, Minomura Rizaemon (in the political pivot strategy) and Nakamigawa Hikojiro (in the professionalization of management), the study proves that Mitsui Bank not only pioneered the independent banking model in Japan but also served as the "financial heart" creating the Zaibatsu ecosystem. The success of this organization is a clear testament to the flexible integration between the foundation of indigenous accumulation and Western business standards, making a decisive contribution to the industrialization of the modern Japanese economy.