Key Facts
• Mizuho Bank announced midday closures at select branches from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM.
• Closures will begin on September 8, 2025, at five branches, including Yamaguchi, Yamagata, and Matsuyama.
• The decision follows a decline in in-person visits due to increased online banking usage.
• Staff will take breaks simultaneously during closures to address labor shortages.
• The bank aims to maintain smooth operations with fewer staff.
• Future expansion of this policy will depend on branch environments and regional conditions.
• Mitsubishi UFJ Bank implemented similar midday closures at three Kyushu branches in September 2024.
Summary
Mizuho Bank will implement midday closures at five branches starting September 8, 2025, from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM. This decision comes as in-person visits decline due to the growing popularity of online banking. The closures aim to streamline operations amid labor shortages by allowing staff to take breaks simultaneously. Branches affected include Yamaguchi, Yamagata, and Matsuyama. While no plans for further expansion have been confirmed, the bank will evaluate based on branch and regional conditions. This move aligns with a similar policy introduced by Mitsubishi UFJ Bank in 2024 at three Kyushu branches.
