tokyo tourist suica card

• Tokyo Cheapo (繁體中文)

The Ultimate Guide to Suica Cards

Suica cards are the universe’s gift to travelers in Japan. Sure, these prepaid IC cards function as train cards, but they’re also so much more than that.

From transport to shopping, here’s everything you need to know about this ultra convenient travel card.

Latest news on Suica cards in Japan

So, let’s talk about this worldwide chip shortage and what it means for our beloved Suica cards. Basically, at the moment, you can’t get a new blank or registered Suica card as easily as you could before. Official statements say that all sales have been suspended. However, the Welcome Suica is still available for short-term visitors to Japan.

But, the actual situation changes a lot. According to our on the ground research, as of February 2024:

• The Welcome Suica is only available at Haneda Airport and online via Klook
• You can use cash or credit cards to buy Welcome Suica cards from ticket machines at Haneda Airport
• Normal Suica cards are available for foreign tourists only at Narita Airport, and at JR Travel Service Centers at major JR train stations

What is a Suica card?

The Suica card is type of train card in Japan. Specifically, a Suica is a IC card issued by JR (Japan Railway) East. At the most basic level, it’s a prepaid card you can use in Tokyo and wider Japan. You can use it on trains, subways, and buses, as well for vending machines, some convenience stores, and station-area facilities like coin lockers. Suica cards are cheap, easy, and flexible — there’s nothing not to love about them.

The Welcome Suica Card: Specifically for short-term visitors to Japan

¥ 1,000 or ¥ 2,000 Buy your Welcome Suica online via Klook Expires after 28 days

In September 2019, JR East introduced the Welcome Suica, a sakura -themed card which is perfect for (some) visitors. It comes pre-loaded with either ¥ 1,000 or ¥ 2,000 . Unlike a regular Suica, it doesn’t have a ¥ 500 deposit — so you don’t need to worry about returning the card when you’re done with it. However, this also means you can’t get a refund for any remaining balance. Also keep in mind that the Welcome Suica automatically expires after 28 days.

You can purchase the Welcome Suica card at JR East Travel Service Centers at Narita Airport Terminal 1 Station, Narita Airport Terminal 2/3 Station, Haneda Airport International Terminal Station, Tokyo Station, Hamamatsuchō Station, Shinagawa Station, Shibuya Station, Shinjuku Station, Ikebukuro Station, or Ueno Station. However, we recommend buying your Welcome Suica online via Klook before you arrive.

When you activate the Welcome Suica, you’ll get a receipt that has useful information like the expiration date on it. You’re supposed to keep this receipt in case anyone asks to see it (annoying).

Also, Welcome Suica is not compatible with Apple Pay.

How do you use a Suica card?

Suica cards work much the same as train cards in other parts of the world. They’re prepaid cards, so once you’ve charged your Suica you simply tap it on the IC card panel at a train station ticket gate as you enter and leave. Very occasionally — usually in countryside areas — the IC card reader will be attached to a pole or wall instead of an automatic ticket gate.

Buses are a slightly different beast. If it’s a flat-aree bus, you just need to tap your Suica once — when you exit the bus. However, if the bus has a fare board displayed, you’ll need to tap on and off.

If you tap your IC card and the panel beeps or flashes red, it usually means your balance is too low. You’ll need to find a charging machine before you can get through the gates.

Where can you use Suica cards?

Pretty much everywhere: There’s a fair bit of interoperability, meaning that your Suica card will get you around Tokyo with no bother. It can be used on all JR East train and bus lines, as well as on many lines owned by other Japanese rail companies. It’s also fully compatible with the Tokyo metro area’s Pasmo system . And it works on the Tokyo Monorail to Haneda Airport.

You can also use Suica cards in many other parts of Japan, such as Kyoto , Sendai , and Niigata , as well as areas serviced by other IC travel card systems, including:

• ICOCA, run by JR West
• Kitaca, run JR Hokkaidō
• TOICA, run by JR Central
• PiTaPa, used in the Kansai region , and some parts of Okayama , Hiroshima , and Shizuoka
• manaca, used in Nagoya and surrounds
• SUGOCA, run by JR Kyūshū
• nimoca, used by Nishitetsu (Nishi-Nippon), and others in the Fukuoka region
• Hayakaken, used by the Fukuoka City Subway

Basically, if the train card name has an “a” on the end, chances are it’s part of the Suica family. Or if you see “IC” on the card reader then it will work with Suica. If you do find yourself somewhere that a Suica card doesn’t get you through the automatic ticket gate, simply make your way to the staffed gate, show them your card and say where you boarded the train. They should have you sorted out in a jiffy.

Pro tip: While Suica cards work in areas outside of Tokyo, you can’t use it to cross from one area to another. For example, you can’t use your Suica to travel from Tokyo to Nagoya in a single tap-on, tap-off journey — you need to tap on and off within the same area. So, you would have to tap on in Tokyo, travel to a station on the border of the area, tap off, then tap on again to re-enter the station.

Can I use my Suica card on the Shinkansen?

Here’s one of the tricky things about trains in Japan: There is the base fare, which is determined by how far you travel. And then, if you are riding any of Japan’s special trains, like the Shinkansen or other high-speed, limited express trains, there is a surcharge on top of the base fare. And IC cards like Suica generally only cover the base fare.

So to ride the Shinkansen (or, say, the Narita Express to the airport), you have to buy a paper ticket from the ticket machines for the surcharge. And then use BOTH the ticket and IC card when going through the ticket machines.

If you live in Japan and ride the Shinkansen a lot, you can set up your Suica so that you can use it to pay for non-reserved (only) Shinkansen rides on JR East-operated Shinkansen lines. You can do this either from the Suica app (in Japanese only) or via a Suica ticket machine. Both methods are explained in this cute video made by JR (in Japanese).

How to charge a Suica card

If the balance on your IC card is getting low, you’ll need to load more money onto it using a ticket machine. There are normally several ticket machines near the ticket gates at a train station. Or, you can usually find a dedicated train Card charging machine inside the ticket gates too.

Once you’ve found a machine, you can change the language to English — there’s usually a button near the top right of the screen. Then just follow the on-screen prompts to charge your Suica card and you’re good to go. Easy peasy, lemon squeezy. Well almost. Some caveats: The smallest denomination coin you can use to charge your pass is a ¥500-coin. So no, you can’t just tip all your loose change into the machine.

Photo guide for charging your Suica card

Can you charge a phyiscal Suica card with a credit card?

Unfortunately, even the newest, shiniest ticket machine won’t let you top up your Suica IC Card with a credit card. However, you could use a credit card to purchase a commuter pass and load your Suica card at the same time.

Can I charge a Suica card at a convenience store?

Yes, you can also top up your Suica at a convenience store. You can either use the ATM in the store, or load money at the cash register.

Where can I buy a Suica card?

A new Suica Card will cost ¥ 1,000 — this is made up of a ¥ 500 deposit for the card and a ¥ 500 charge loaded onto the card.

Under normal circumstances, you can buy Suica IC cards in a number of places. You could get one at Haneda or Narita , as well as from JR East ticket machines at train stations — just look for the machines displaying the Suica symbol. You can also buy them at JR East Travel Service Centers.

Pro tip: While you can’t buy normal Suica cards at the moment, short term visitors to Japan can buy a Welcome Suica online .

Photo guide for purchasing a blank Suica card

You can buy a Suica card from an issuing machine, and yes, the machines do have Engilsh support.

Registering a Suica card

If you have a blank Suica card — and not a Welcome Suica — you can register it. When you register it, the ticket machine prints your name on it — so you stand a better chance of getting it back if you lose it. And if you don’t get it back, you can request that the remaing balance is transfered to a new card. All of this is useful if you live in Tokyo, but less so if you’re just visiting.

You can register your Suica card at the time of purchase by selecting “MySuica” and inputting the information requested — your name, date of birth, gender, and phone number.

How do I return a Suica card?

At the end of your trip you can return your Suica card and get your deposit back — if you don’t want to keep it as a souvenir, that is. But, there is a fee for this: ¥ 220 , which will be deducted from the remaining balance on your card. Your deposit of ¥ 500 is exempt from this, though, so you’ll always get that back. Obviously, you can’t deduct ¥ 220 from a card with less than ¥ 220 on it, so try to return your card with as little as possible left on it.

To return a Suica card, you need to take it to a train station. If you got the Suica from a JR East train station, you can return it so any JR East station. However, if you purchased it elsewhere, like from Tokyo Monorail, you need to return it there. Whichever station you return it at, you’ll need to take the Suica to a ticket office or station office — you can’t return it to a machine. If you registered the Suica, you may need to fill out a little bit of paper work when you return it.

Pro tip: Suica cards can be also be returned at Narita Airport or Haneda Airport .

Suica cards for children

If you’re traveling in Japan with youngsters, it’s definitely worth getting a children’s Suica card. This is because the fares for children aged 6 to 11 are half the price of adults’. You can get children’s Suica cards from JR Ticket Offices — not ticket machines. You’ll need to provide proof of the child’s age when you get the train card, so make sure to bring some ID along.

Pro tip: In Japan, children under 6 can generally travel on the trains for free, as long as there are only two of them per adult; the third child under 6 will be charged a child’s fare. When passing through the ticket gates, simply scan your own IC train card and walk through together. While the odds of being asked are low, it is worth carrying a proof of age document — like a passport — to avoid any awkward conversations with the train and metro staff.

Virtual Suica cards

If you like your tech, or just having one less card in your wallet, you can look into getting a virtual Suica card. It’s known as Mobile Suica, and works through tapping your phone — instead of a physical card — to pay for your travel. The device doesn’t need to be connected to a network, nor unlocked, to work. It does need to be on, though.

Who can use the Mobile Suica app?

On Apple devices , the Mobile Suica app is available for the iPhone 8 and up, and Apple Watch Series 3 and later. It also works on iPhone 7s that were purchased in Japan (and all new models after that). Anything released earlier is not compatible.

Android users can access Mobile Suica via Google Pay . However, they must have an “osaifu-keitai” eligible phone, which essentially means a smartphone purchased in Japan.

Setting up a virtual (mobile) Suica card in Japan

Got a phone that’s compatible with Mobile Suica? Lucky you. Here’s how to get set up.

Apple users

To set up a virtual Suica on your iPhone, you need an iPhone 8 or later, and the latest iOS. To activate the card, open the Wallet app and select the Suica profile. If you previously had a physical Suica, you can add the remaining amount on that card to your virtual wallet by following the prompts and adding the last few digits of the card. Or you can create a new Suica card on your iPhone. You can choose to pay via Apple Pay or direct from your credit card; the costs are the same, so this is just a matter of preference.

It’s worth noting that if you have an iPhone and Apple Watch, you cannot have the same Suica account on both devices. It is possible to switch between devices, though. See the Apple help on Suica for more info.

How to top up your Mobile Suica through Apple Pay

To top up your Mobile Suica through Apple Pay simply tap on your registered Mobile Suica, press the Add Money button and type in your desired amount. Choose the card you will be paying with and verify your purchase by using Face or Touch ID. Keep in mind that there might be instances where cards issued in your home country — especially if they’re debit cards — might not support this feature.

How to refund your Mobile Suica balance through Apple Pay

To refund your Mobile Suica balance through Apple Pay, you will need two things — the official Suica app and a Japanese bank account.

Load the app and select the Suica balance you want to refund on the list screen, tap refund this Suica and confirm the given information. You will then need to enter your Japanese bank account details and then confirm everything again.

Note, that you may be charged a ¥ 220 refund fee, and that the refund can take anywhere from two weeks to a month to receive.

Android users

To use Mobile Suica on your phone, you need to add Suica to your Google Pay profile. Suica also has an app for Android users that allows you to buy commuter passes, Green Car tickets, and Shinkansen tickets. But it’s only available in Japanese at the moment, and the reviews on Google Play aren’t promising.

Note: The Mobile Suica only works when your device is on. If your battery dies while you’re on the train, inform the staff at your exit gate; they will give you a slip with fare details on it. The next time you arrive at a station, show the staff the ticket you were given to pay what you owe and to allow your Suica to get you through the ticket gate.

Adding a Suica to your Apple Wallet

If you’ve got an iPhone 8 or later, you can add your Suica to your Apple Wallet. This isn’t quite the same as Mobile Suica, which funnels through the Suica app, but follows the same concept. If you don’t already have a physical Suica, you can set one up digitally. Simply go to your Apple Wallet, hit the + button, and select “Travel Card”, followed by “Suica”. Top up your initial amount, and you’re good to go. This can be done without changing your iPhone region, so you won’t have to change to Japan if you’re just visiting.

Alternatively, if you already have a Suica, you can transfer it and your existing balance into your Apple Wallet. To do this, after you hit Suica in the procedure above, tap “Transfer Existing Card.” You’ll be asked for your date of birth and the last four digits of your Suica card number. Fill that in, then you’ll tap your phone against the physical Suica card. Once done, your card and its existing balance will be loaded into your Apple Wallet and be ready to use. Be careful though! Once complete, the physical card will no longer work, so be certain you won’t need it going forward.

To top up a Suica in your Apple Wallet, you’ll need a linked credit or prepaid card in the Wallet app. Tap your Suica in the app, and hit “Add Money.” You’ll choose how much you want to top up, and then be given the choice of which card in your Wallet you want to use for the top up. Choose a card, confirm with Touch or Face ID, and you’re set. Keep in mind that you currently can’t refund money loaded onto a digital Suica in your Apple Wallet, so don’t load too much for a short trip!

Frequently asked questions

Do suica cards save you money.

Yes, but only a very little at a time. Within Tokyo, the fare for Suica (or any IC card) users is a couple of yen cheaper than the full fare price. So a trip on the JR Yamanote line from Shinjuku to Shibuya costs only ¥157 instead of ¥160.

If you’re thinking, hang on that’s almost 2%! It is, but the percentage diminishes with distance until there is no discount at all. But we reckon you can save maybe a couple thousand yen a year.

Note: In a few exceptional cases, the paper ticket is a few yen cheaper than the Suica, but these are rare.

How do I check my balance?

When you tap your card at the ticket gates (or when boarding a bus), your remaining balance will appear on the card reader. You can also check your balance using the same vending machines used to by tickets and passes. If your card is linked to your mobile or watch, then you can check your balance on your device.

Can foreigners buy a suica card?

Yes, there are no restrictions on who can buy a Suica card. But, the Welcome Suica is only available for those with “temporary visitor” stamps in their passports.

What if my Suica card is lost or stolen?

If you lose your Suica card, or it’s stolen, you can get it reissued if you registered it . To get it reissued, you’ll need to head to a JR train station office and the staff will help you through the process.

What if my Suica is damaged?

If your Suica is damaged or not working properly, head to a JR train station office and the staff there will sort you out. Just keep in mind that staff may not speak much English — if this is a concern for you try out a bigger station like Tokyo Station.

How can I use my Suica card for shopping?

Using your Suica card to pay for shopping is very straightforward, you just need to tap it against the card reader. IC cards are often accepted for payments at convenience stores, drink vending machines, and various other stores. Many stores have signs near the register showing what forms of cashless payments they accept, if “IC” is on the list then you’re good to go.

Can you share a Suica train card?

If you are traveling in a group, everyone needs to have their own IC card or train ticket. The exception is children under 6, because they can travel for free.

What does Suica mean?

Suica stands for “super urban intelligent card.” There is also some word play as “sui sui” is the Japanese onomatopoeia for gliding smoothly. Clearly, people put a lot of thought into this.

Wait, is that why the mascot for Suica is a penguin?

For more information on IC cards in Japan, see our handy Suica and Pasmo comparison guide . You can also check the official JR East site .

While we do our best to make sure it’s correct, information is subject to change. This post was a joint effort with Lily Crossley-Baxter . Last updated: February 2024.

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• Transportation

Guide to Suica Cards

How to get a Suica Card and more

For a convenient and stress-free travel experience, both around Tokyo and in regions beyond, it’s worth investing in a Suica card. This debit-style transportation card is popular with both residents of Japan and visitors alike. Take the hassle out of trying to figure out metro routes and ticket costs by purchasing a rechargeable Suica card.

What is a Suica card?

Suica is a debit-style transportation card sold by the JR Rail Company in its Tokyo train station hubs, as well as in locations such as Haneda and Narita Airports. This distinctive bright green card with its penguin logo can be used almost indefinitely – it doesn’t expire unless a period of ten years has passed between uses, and any monetary balance remains unaffected in that time.

What are the benefits of having a Suica card?

Above all – convenience. With Japan still often considered a cash-based society, it pays to have a multi-purpose card that can take care of most of your travel needs, but the Suica IC card can achieve a lot more:

• Tap-and-go access to trains, buses and trams around Japan. More >
• Pay at vending machines, shops and restaurants. More >
• Access to luggage storage lockers at stations. More >

How are Suica and PASMO different?

Many first-time visitors to Japan may often wonder what are the differences between Suica and PASMO – another IC travel card often mentioned.

PASMO cards are transportation cards that are designed and sold by Tokyo Metro. Suica cards are designed and sold by Japan Rail (JR).

Aside from their outward appearance, there is virtually no difference in usage between the Suica and PASMO cards. For travelers or visitors staying near the center of Tokyo, which has an abundance of Tokyo metro stations, it may simply be easier to purchase a PASMO card from the nearest station instead of making the trek to a more outlying JR rail station.

How can I purchase a Suica?

Suica cards can be purchased from ticket machines in most of Tokyo’s main JR rail stations (ie Tokyo, Hamamatsucho, Shimbashi, Shinjuku, Shibuya, etc). English instructions walk buyers through the steps needed to obtain a card. Cards can be personalized or left blank – if personalized, a card that is lost can later be identified and reclaimed with proof of identification.

Cards require an initial ¥500 deposit, though this can be reclaimed when returning the card (inside the station) at the end of your holiday.

How to top up a Suica

Cards can be topped up immediately, or at regular intervals as needed. When charging the card, cash can be added in increments of ¥1000. Suica cards can hold a balance of up to ¥20,000. Only yen cash can be used to add money to a Suica card. Credit cards are not accepted.

You can also top up a Suica at most ticket machines, even at non-JR stations, such as Tokyo Metro, as well as buses that accept Suica/PASMO.

Did you know? If you are caught out and run out of charge on the card when arriving at a station, you can even top-up at special kiosks inside the gates before you exit. It reduces the need to worry about trying to calculate the exact fare between stations.

For children aged 6-11, a special youth Suica card can be obtained. Marked with the kanji for small (小), this card entitles younger users to a discount of 50% on the regular train fare. Youth Suica cannot be purchased at the self-service kiosks and must be bought in person from a JR staff member in one of the JR train offices. Presentation of identification or of the minor him or herself may be required.

Step-by-step guide to buying the Suica

• Find the nearest ticket vending machine.
• Touch the 'English' button on the right corner of the monitor to switch languages for easier use.
• Select 'Purchase New Suica' on the lower left panel.
• You'll have 3 options: MySuica (for personalization - useful if needing to reclaim a lost card), Suica and Charge.
• There are several options you can choose, from ¥1000 to ¥10,000 (including the deposit cost of ¥500).
• Insert cash.
• And finally, take your Suica card, change, and receipt.

Returning your Suica when leaving Japan

If you decide not to keep your Suica for future use, you may return it to any JR rail office.

If any amount of money over ¥220 is left on the card, the JR company will charge a fee of ¥220 to process a refund and return the remaining amount to you. If the balance is under ¥220, no refund is issued and the balance is zeroed out.

(This includes balances such as ¥80, that would end up in negative numbers upon subtraction of the refund fee. The balance is simply zeroed out with no penalty to the card holder.)

However, all customers will receive the initial ¥500 deposit back upon turning in the card.

Where can I use my Suica card?

Travel with suica.

Suica are most commonly used as transportation passes, which users simply tap over the ticket gate to gain entry to the train tracks and tap again to exit a station, where the fare for the journey is automatically calculated and debited. There is a small discount on single journeys for those that use a Suica pass compared to those that rely strictly on paper tickets.

While cards emblazoned with Suica are sold in Tokyo, these JR-sponsored passes are also usable on regional forms of transportation.

Since 2013, Suica can be used interchangeably with the regional IC cards, like Kansai's ICOCA and PiTaPa, Nagoya's TOICA and Manaca, Sapporo's Kitaca, Fukuoka's SUGOCA and Hayakaken and Kyushu's nimoca. Hiroshima's street car/trams also support Suica, as well as several other regional transport systems.

Note that continuous travel between different regions of Japan is not possible just on a Suica alone.

Shop with Suica

Suica can also be used to make purchases at vending machines marked with the card’s logo. Simply tap the card against the machine’s card reader, select the product of your choice, and tap your card a second time to complete the purchase.

Many convenience stores also now provide an option for Suica holders to use their card to pay for purchases. Look for the card reader at the cash register and follow the clerk’s instructions or the instructions on the screen.

Many restaurant chains also support payments by Suica – just look for the familiar green logo near the payment terminal.

Luggage Storage

A number of lockers in Japan have begun switching to a coinless system, where users access their bags with a Suica or other debit-style transportation card.

Often found in train stations, these lockers don’t require a key for entry, and instead provide an entry code to be used in conjunction with the Suica card when reclaiming any baggage.

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The Red Suica Card: “Welcome Suica” for Foreigners Visiting Japan

JR East started to sell a special IC card for visitors to Japan called “Welcome Suica” on September 1, 2019. Have you used it before? Where can you buy it? Let’s see how it differs from a regular Suica card!

Table of Contents

Red Suica「Welcome Suica」

From： JR East

The card face of “Welcome Suica” is different from the normal green Suica card, but it has a red and white pattern. The red color represents the sun, and the white color represents cherry blossoms. Red and white are also the colors of the Japanese flag.

In terms of use, there is no difference between the red Suica card and the green Suica card, as the card can be swiped to enter the station directly and can be used as an electronic payment card for purchases at places where the Suica card can be used for payment.

To recharge, you can choose from 1,000 yen, 2,000 yen, 3,000 yen, 4,000 yen, 5,000 yen, or 10,000 yen at ticket vending machines and other locations.

Unlike the Green Suica Card, when you apply for the Red Suica Card, you do not need to pre-deposit 500 yen, but all the amount you recharge for the first time can be used as fare/shopping money.

In addition, the regular Suica card generally has no expiration date and can be used for as long as it is in use. Unless the card is not used for ten years, the card will not be invalidated. The red Suica card “Welcome Suica” has a validity period of 28 days from the first swipe and will be automatically invalidated on the 28th day. Visitors can certainly take this card home as a souvenir of their visit to Japan.

Where to apply for the red Suica card “Welcome Suica”

• Tokyo Station
• Shinjuku Station
• Shibuya Station
• Ikebukuro Station
• Ueno Station
• Shinagawa Station
• Hamamatsucho Station
• Narita Airport Station
• Narita Airport Terminal 2 Station
• Tokyo Monorail Haneda Airport Terminal 2 Station
• Haneda Airport Terminal 2 Station
• Haneda Airport Terminal 3 Station and other stations

Notes on the red Suica card “Welcome Suica”

No refund of balance.

The Welcome Suica does not require a 500 yen advance deposit, but it also does not refund the remaining balance. In other words, the balance of the card will not be refunded either before or after the expiration of the Red Suica Card.

Therefore, it is important to use up the remaining balance on your Red Suica Card before it expires in order not to lose out.

The recharge amount is limited to 1,000 yen

When you recharge your  Welcome Suica, you can only recharge from

You can choose to recharge within this thousand amount, but not for example 1,500 yen.

The balance limit is 20,000 yen

If you have more cash and wish to reload all of it to your Red Suica Card, you should note that there is a balance limit on the Red Suica Card.

Even if you have 30,000 yen, you can only load up to 20,000 yen.

No renewal after expiration

The Red Suica Card “Welcome Suica” is only valid for 28 days. If you stay in Japan for more than 28 days, you can only apply for a new card after the Red Suica Card expires, and you cannot renew your old card.

You must bring a Reference Paper with you when you use Welcome Suica

A Reference Paper will be delivered with the Red Suica Card.

You can check the validity period of your Welcome Suica card, information about your discount ticket, etc., on the Reference Paper that you receive when you purchase the card. (This information will not be displayed on the Welcome Suica card itself.)

Always carry this Reference Paper around with you, and show it to the staff if they ask to see it.

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2024 Japan Suica Card Guide: Price, Where to Buy & FAQs

On our Japan spring trip, we didn’t buy any transport cards like the Japan Suica Card before our trip. We thought we could easily get one on our arrival.

Our close friend recommended that we immediately buy our Suica Card as soon as we arrive at the Tokyo Station and so we did. We used the ticket machine to buy our Suica Cards, but it got us scratching our heads several times. Mind you, it was challenging and overwhelming, to say the least.

Learn from our experience and secure your Suica Card before your Japan trip. We made this guide so you know everything about the Suica Card in Japan including its usage, price, where to buy, and frequently asked questions (FAQs).

[NEWS]: Since Aug 2023, selling of Suica Cards had been temporarily suspended due to the shortage of semiconductors worldwide. Fortunately, tourists can still buy the alternative Japan IC Card Welcome Suica which is valid for 28 days.

BUY WELCOME SUICA

What is a Japan Suica Card?

The Suica Card is an integrated smart card in Japan, similar to Korea’s T-Money Card , Taiwan’s EasyCard , and Hong Kong’s Octopus Card , you can use to pay for public transport such as trains, buses, and even taxis with the Suica logo. Suica also serves as a prepaid e-money card to pay for items in vending machines and convenience stores in Japan.

Although there are many other IC cards in Japan like the PASMO Card and ICOCA Card, the Suica Card is the most popular, which is why it gets easily sold out. With its temporary suspension, tourists can opt to buy the alternative Welcome Suica instead.

Which areas in Japan can I use my Suica Card?

You can use your Suica Card in the following areas in Japan:

JR East Lines in the Greater Tokyo Area:

• Tokyo Metropolis

Certain transport systems in other parts of Japan:

What is not covered by the suica card.

While you can use your Suica Card in most parts of Japan, do note that you cannot use it to ride the shinkansen , express trains , highway buses , or airport shuttles .

What can I use my Japan Suica Card for?

You can use your Suica Card to pay for the following:

1. Public transportation

The Suica Card is mainly used to pay for rides on Japan’s public transportation including trains, monorails, buses, and taxis.

2. Convenience stores

Most convenience stores in Japan accept IC cards like Suica as mode of payment. So, you can use it to pay for items you buy from convenience stores like 7-Eleven , Family Mart , and Lawson .

3. Vending machines

You can find vending machines almost everywhere in Japan. If you run out of coins or cash, you may use your Suica Card to pay instead.

You can also use your Suica Card to pay for lockers in Japan.

5. Restaurants

Some restaurants in Japan accept IC cards like Suica as payment for the food. You may ask their staff or look for the Suica logo in their payment counters.

How much does a Suica Card cost?

You may choose to buy your Suica Card for ¥1,000, ¥2,000, ¥3,000, ¥4,000, ¥5,000, or ¥10,000, which already includes a deposit fee of ¥500.

Do note that the maximum top-up is ¥20,000, and you can only load your card with Japanese Yen currency. You cannot use your credit card to top up your Suica Card.

Where can I buy a Suica Card?

As of writing, the sale of the regular Suica Card is temporarily suspended until further notice. As an alternative, you can buy the special Japan tourist IC Card Welcome Suica from the following:

Option 1: Klook

Welcome suica with jr lines 1-day pass.

• Card price: ¥1,500 (US$10)
• Top-up not included
• Nice feature: 1-Day Unli Ride on JR trains in Tokyo + Tokyo Monorail Line
• Pick-up location: NINJA WiFi Service Counter of Haneda Airport

GET WELCOME SUICA

Option 2: Haneda Airport

If you failed to secure your Welcome Suica online , you can still buy it at Haneda Airport. You may proceed to the JR EAST Travel Service Center and Welcome Suica vending machine at Haneda Airport Terminal 3 (Tokyo Monorail Station).

Do note that as the stocks are limited, only one Welcome Suica is sold per person.

Instructions on how to use the Suica Card

Using your Suica Card is so simple. All you have to do is tap the Suica Card on the reader at any ticket gate. The final fare will be automatically calculated and deducted at the station where you got off.

Watch the video below so you have a better idea on how to use the Suica Card:

Japan Suica Card frequently asked questions (FAQs)

1. how do i put money on my suica card.

To top up or put money on your Suica Card, you can go to:

Option 1: Ticket vending machines at subway stations

Find any JR ticket machine at Japan’s subway stations and top up your Suica Card by following these steps:

1. Place your Suica Card on the card holder. 2. Change the language to English. 3. Choose the amount you’d like to top up. 4. Pay the top-up amount with Japanese Yen. 5. Get your newly reloaded Suica Card.

Option 2: Convenience stores

You may also proceed to convenience stores in Japan including 7-Eleven, Lawson, and FamilyMart. They usually have reloading machines for your Suica Card.

2. Can foreigners buy a Suica Card?

Yes, foreigners can buy a Suica Card in Japan. However, with the current shortage problem, tourists are encouraged to buy the Welcome Suica , a special Japan IC card for tourists valid for 28 days. While it does not have a deposit amount, it’s also not refundable.

3. Can I withdraw money from my Suica Card?

The Suica Card is a prepaid e-money card so it’s not usually used to withdraw cash in Japan. Although others say that some ATM machines do allow Suica cash withdrawals, we haven’t personally tried it ourselves.

4. Is my Suica Card refundable?

Yes, your Suica Card is refundable. There is refund fee of ¥220, which will be deducted from the remaining amount in your card. For Suica Cards issued by JR East Japan, you may proceed to any JR East stations for the refund.

However, if you purchased the Welcome Suica , you cannot request a refund for it.

5. Do Suica Cards expire?

Yes, Japan Suica Cards expire in 10 years so you have to use any remaining amount within the validity period or get a refund for it. If you bought the Welcome Suica , it expires after 28 days and any amount left is not refundable.

6. Can I still reuse my Suica Card when I go back to Japan?

Yes, you can reuse your Japan Suica Card as many times as you want so long as it’s still within the 10-year validity period. As for the Welcome Suica , it is only valid for 28 days so you cannot reuse this special tourist card in Japan after it expires.

We hope we covered the basics of the Japan Suica Card.

Excited to plan your Japan trip? Here are more resources for you:

• Japan SIM card or pocket WiFi guide
• Japan spring itinerary
• Japanese food list
• Japan Visa guide for Filipinos
• Japan Visa Without ITR guide for Filipinos
• Japan Tour Packages

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• Home --> >
• Welcome Suica/Suica -->>
• Welcome Suica (With IC Special Pass)

For a more convenient and comfortable Japan trip!

​ "Welcome Suica" is a convenient IC card offered by JR EAST, that allows you to shop and get on trains, buses, etc., with just a tap of the card. ​

• No need to deposit money to purchase the card!
• No need to pay with coins or deal with change!
• Comes with an IC Special Pass! Get from the airport to central Tokyo, and all around the city!

What is the Welcome Suica?

28-day validity period (ex: 28 days from 1/1 – 1/28).

• Charge the IC card for repeated use.
• Get through the automatic ticket gate with just a tap of the card. (Touch & Go)

There will be no refunds for any remaining charge on your IC card.​ ​ (Welcome Suica IC cards will not be collected after use.)

What is the Welcome Suica (with IC Special Pass) Card?

Comes with one of three non-dated ic special passes.

Narita → Tokyo 1-Day Pass Haneda → Tokyo 1-Day Pass Tokyo Metropolitan District Pass (Tokunai Pass) One of these passes will come preset in the card. Travel as much as you want all day within the designated area! Because the pass is undated, customers will have to activate the pass themselves. It will only be valid for the day (one day) in which it is activated.

Narita→Tokyo 1-Day Pass

Use this pass for unlimited rides on non-reserved seats on local and rapid trains from Narita Airport to Tokyo Metropolitan District, or within the 23 Special Wards of Tokyo. This pass is especially handy for business and shopping.

Haneda→Tokyo 1-Day Pass

Use this pass for unlimited rides on non-reserved seats on local and rapid trains from Haneda Airport to Tokyo Metropolitan District, or within the 23 Special Wards of Tokyo. This pass is especially handy for business and shopping.

Tokyo Metropolitan District Pass (Tokunai Pass)

Unlimited hop on hop off travel using non-reserved seats in ordinary cars of ordinary trains (including rapid trains) in the 23 wards of central Tokyo

You can also register other IC special passes onto your card

You can register and use other IC special passes on your Welcome Suica IC card after using up the preset special pass.

Discount tickets that can be registered with the Welcome Suica and Suica

About Activation

The one-time activation process will:

• Allow you to start using the Suica function of the card (28-day validity period).
• Allow you to start using the IC special pass (same-day only).

How to Activate

If you are  within​  the ic special pass applicable area.

Activate the card at a ticket vending machine or a multifunction ticket vending machine.

• If you have any difficulty with the process, tell a ticket gate staff member you'd like to activate your pass.

If you are outside of the IC Special Pass applicable area

-->[If you are within the Suica area]

You can activate the card at a ticket vending machine or a multifunction ticket vending machine.

• If you have any difficulty with the process, tell a ticket gate staff member you'd like to activate your pass. You will not be able to use your card to get through the automatic ticket gates if it has not been activated.

-->[If you are within the PASMO area]

• You will be able to use the Suica function of the card at ticket vending machines.
• You will not be able to activate the IC special pass using the ticket vending machines. *You will not be able to activate the IC special pass outside of the Suica/PASMO area.
• Once you charge your card, you can use it to get through the automatic ticket gates.
• The IC special pass will be activated once you use your card to pass through the automatic ticket gates. Note, however, that you will only be able to use the IC special pass within the IC special pass designated area.

Reference Paper

Use your Reference Paper to check the validity period of your Welcome Suica IC card, information about the preset IC special pass, etc. Customers should print the Reference Paper themselves, and carry it with them at all times during their travels.

You can print the Reference Paper at a ticket vending machine or multifunction ticket vending machine.

• If you lose your Reference Paper, you can reprint it at a ticket vending machine or multifunction ticket vending machine in the Suica area. You can also ask a staff member at a station in the Suica area for help.

Example Reference Paper

How to Use the Welcome Suica Card

Riding trains.

Tap your Welcome Suica card on the automatic ticket gate for one second, and you can get on the train without buying a ticket.

• You will not be able to get through the gate if you don't have sufficient balance on your card.​ Recharge your card at the fare adjustment machine, then tap your card on the sensor of the automatic ticket gate.

Shopping in Stores

Buying Beverages at Vending Machines

Using a Locker

You can use your Welcome Suica card as the key to your locker, and use it to pay for the locker as well. *You cannot split your payment between cash and your Welcome Suica card.

The Welcome Suica is So Convenient

You can use your card in places like these.

You can use your Welcome Suica card in any store that has one of these marks!

The Welcome Suica IC Card can be used for shopping throughout the country! Use it to pay anywhere you see a Suica electronic payment mark, even in areas where it cannot be used for the train.

Major Stores Where You Can Use the Welcome Suica

Charging the Welcome Suica IC Card After Activation

Charging at a Ticket Vending Machine

Charging at a Convenience Store

Charging on Seven Bank ATM (in Seven-Eleven Stores, etc.)

Areas Where You Can Use the Welcome Suica Card for Trains

• For the latest details on each area, see the official website, etc., for the relevant railway company.
• Some transportation companies may not allow you to pay with a Welcome Suica card.
• You may only use your Welcome Suica card for journeys that begin and end within the same card area. You may not travel beyond the area in which you begin your journey and into another area when using the Welcome Suica card.

Welcome Suica Train Areas

Logo for Transportation IC Card Nationwide Network of Mutual Use Service

• This is the logo for the IC card nationwide network of mutual use service, which includes Suica, PASMO, Kitaca, TOICA, manaca, ICOCA, PiTaPa, SUGOCA, nimoca, and Hayakaken.

• Refunds for IC special passes that you have registered on your own will be given only if the pass is unused, and is still within its validity period. (Service fee required.)
• There will be no refunds due to train outages.
• Refunds are only possible at JR East Ticket Offices within the designated area.
• There may be something in your card holder that is preventing the automatic ticket gate from scanning your card.
• Your card may not have processed properly the last time you used it at a automatic ticket gate.
• You have used a station outside the Suica area, and your card need to be adjusted.

For example, here is the expiration date of the card until the end of May 2025. Cannot be used from June 2025. Please be careful.

East Japan Railway Company East Japan Railway Company Procedural Regulations for IC Cards for Foreign Visitors to Japan (Terms and Conditions) (English)

East Japan Railway Company IC Card Ticket Handling Rules (Terms and Conditions) (English)

See here for more details.

About Suica

If you plan to use the Suica for longer (29 days or more) and/or for your next trip to Japan*, you should use the regular Suica.

*Please be aware that your Suica will expire 10 years from the last date of use.

The information on this site is current as of March 2020, and is subject to change. Photos/illustrations are reference images.

• Download Adobe Reader to view PDF files.

Go back to Welcome Suica/Suica

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Truly Tokyo

A Tokyo Travel Guide

Tokyo IC Cards: Pasmo and Suica

Prepaid IC cards are the best way to pay for transport and many other things in Tokyo and the rest of Japan. The best ones are Pasmo and Suica. I'll give you all the details on buying and using them here.

The Takeaway

• Prepaid smart cards are incredibly convenient. Buy one as soon as you can!
• The best prepaid cards for travelers in Japan are Pasmo and Suica.
• For most purposes, Pasma and Suica are interchangeable. Buy either!
• You can use Pasmo/Suica for all trains, subways and buses in Tokyo.
• You can also use Pasmo/Suica at many shops, especially convenience stores.
• You can use Pasmo/Suica in other parts of Japan as well
• Buy Pasmo cards from vending machines at subway stations in Tokyo
• Buy Suica cards from vending machines at JR stations in Tokyo, or buy a Suica card online
• You can buy either card at Narita and Haneda airports.
• Buy a Pasmo or Suica! Wait, did I already say that?

The Details

• Prepaid cards (also known as stored-value cards, smart cards or internal chip/IC cards) are huge in Japan. Once you buy one and use one, you'll never want to go back to fishing for change in your wallet every time you ride a bus or a train or buy something in a convenience store. Normal tourists can buy prepaid cards in Japan (ie, you don't need to be a resident and you don't even need to show ID). I strongly recommend that you buy a prepaid card, even if you just intend to spend a few days in Tokyo.
• The two main prepaid cards in Tokyo are Pasmo and Suica . Suica is issued by JR East (one of Japan's main train companies) and Pasmo is issued by a consortium of private transport companies in east Japan. But, this doesn't matter, because they're fully interchangeable! I mean, you can ride JR trains with a Pasmo and private lines with a Suica. The only difference is where you purchase them: you purchase Pasmo cards from vending machines at subway stations in Tokyo; you purchase Suica cards from vending machines at JR stations in Tokyo. Both types of machines have English-language screen guidance. You can also buy these cards at the ticket offices in these stations. You can also buy these cards at Narita or Haneda airports. You can also buy a Suica card online

Check Hotel Availability

Destination, check-in date, check-out date.

Here's a quick FAQ with everything you need to know:

How much do Pasmo/Suica cost?

Where can you buy pasmo/suica, are there child pasmo/suica cards, how do you top up a pasmo/suica card, what happens if you lose your card, can you use pasmo/suica in other parts of japan, can you use pasmo/suica in shops and vending machines, can you use pasmo/suica on the shinkansen, should i buy a pasmo/suica card, tokyo vacation checklist.

• For all the essentials in a brief overview, see my First Time In Tokyo guide
• Check Tokyo accommodation availability and pricing on Booking.com and Agoda.com - often you can book with no upfront payment and free cancellation
• Need tips on where to stay? See my one page guide Where To Stay In Tokyo
• You can buy shinkansen (bullet train) tickets online from Klook - popular routes include Tokyo to Kyoto , Tokyo to Osaka and Tokyo to Hiroshima
• You can buy a Japan SIM card online for collection on arrival at Tokyo Narita or Haneda airports. Or rent an unlimited data pocket wifi router
• See my comprehensive Packing List For Japan
• Compare airline flight prices and timings for the best Japan flight deals . Check my guides to arriving at Narita Airport and at Haneda Airport .
• If you're visiting more than one city, you might save money with a Japan Rail Pass – see if it's worth it for you
• A prepaid Suica card makes travelling around Tokyo much easier - here's how
• World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world

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Story See More of Japan With the Help of the Suica Card The All-in-One Tourist Card to Travel and Shop By JNTO on 13 January 2023

Figuring out ticketing machines at train and bus stations and how to get to popular destinations in Japan can be challenging for foreigners but there are some hacks you can do for a fuss-free travel experience such as getting a Suica card. 

Please note that this information is current as of January 2023 and may be subject to change.

Issued by the East Japan Railway Company (JR East), the Suica card , easily recognised through its penguin mascot motif, is a prepaid, rechargeable card that you can use for many purposes. 

Besides using it for JR East train lines, it can also be used for many bus lines, major convenience stores, vending machines, and even coin lockers. Covering a wide transportation network extending beyond the Tokyo metropolitan area, the all-in-one Suica card is easily one of the most popular and convenient tourist cards! 

Where Can I Use the Suica Card?

Getting Around Japan:

The Suica card can be used for the JR East train lines in Tokyo’s metropolitan area. It can also be used for many buses and subways. This is good to have handy for the Tokyo Monorail, which connects Haneda Airport with Tokyo, too. Tourists who are contemplating their choices will also be pleased to know that the Suica card is fully compatible with the Tokyo metropolitan area’s Pasmo system.

Outside of Tokyo, it can be used in areas where Kitaca, PASMO, TOICA, manaca, ICOCA, PiTaPa, SUGOCA, nimoca, Hayakaken, and odeca are available; these can be used from Hokkaido to Okinawa for railways, buses and more. However, do note that the Suica cannot be used for continuous travel between areas. When crossing from one area to another, you have to first exit the ticket gate and then enter the next station.

Some modes of transportation such as certain highway buses and express trains do not accept the Suica card since you may need to book and pay in advance to use these. To avoid confusion and optimise your travel plans, do check for the latest updates because the valid usage area is constantly expanding. 

Shopping With Ease:

More than just a transport card, the versatile Suica card can be used for shopping as well. A wide variety of retailers have started to accept the Suica card as a means of payment, which means the Suica card is your tap-and-go wallet. 

You don’t have to worry about not having enough cash on hand as this easy and convenient option can help you pay at many establishments.

For a start, you can use the Suica card to pay for purchases at major local convenience store chains that many tourists love. Adding to the list are beverage vending machines, supermarkets, drug stores, cafes and even some fast-food chains. The full list of stores can be found here , or just keep a look out for the Suica and partners’ logos displayed at the store.

Where to Buy and How to Top-Up the Suica Card?

Travellers flying in from Narita or Haneda International Airport can purchase a Suica card easily at JR East Travel Service Centers. You can also buy a prepaid Suica card from ticketing machines at major JR East train stations and JR Ticket Offices (Midori-no-madoguchi).

Expect to pay JPY1,000 for the initial purchase of a Suica card, which includes a JPY500 deposit fee that is fully refundable when you return the card. However, do note that a charge of JPY220 is deducted upon return. (If there is less than JPY220 left on your card, it will not be refunded.) 

You can easily top up your Suica card at Automatic Ticket Vending Machines and Multi-Functional Ticketing Machines found at train stations and most convenience stores. The rechargeable amounts available are JPY500; JPY1,000; JPY2,000; JPY3,000; JPY5,000; and JPY10,000. You can load a minimum amount of JPY1,000 at convenience stores. 

Short-term visitors can also consider the special Welcome Suica card. This tourist card with a sakura design comes without a JPY500 deposit fee but is valid for only four weeks and the balance credit cannot be refunded. It makes a cute souvenir to take home for memories.

If effortless travel and shopping convenience matter greatly to you, the Suica card is one good thing to have when exploring Japan. Reduce the stresses of public transport and shopping language barriers. Navigate Japan as the locals do; simply tap the card and go! 

*Suica is a trademark of East Japan Railway Company.  

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How to Use the Suica card as a Tourist in Japan

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The Suica card is an absolute must-have if you’re visiting Japan. Find out how to use it here (and why it makes your trip so much easier!)

Planning a trip to Japan can be overwhelming. I recently returned from a 15-day adventure through Japan’s most popular cities and it was unlike any other trip I’ve been on before. I was overwhelmed by how much I didn’t know. Cultural norms, restaurant culture, tipping or not, navigating public transit in a non-Romance language, etiquette and politeness, and more – everything was a bit unknown to me, no matter how much I researched.

But I was most nervous about navigating public transportation in Japan.

My arrival hotel was located adjacent to Shinjuku Station, the busiest train station in the world! In the largest city in the world!

How would I know where to go? How would I buy tickets? Would the ticket machines even have an English option?

Within a day or so, however, I had effectively mastered public transit in Tokyo – and I can attribute a lot of my success to the Suica card.

I know, that sounds silly. But having the Suica card eliminated a lot of the barriers to getting on public transit. It even helped me at the conbini (convenience stores, like 7/11, Lawsons, or Family Mart) and even at Tokyo Disney!

If you’re a tourist visiting Japan, you absolutely need to get a Suica card. Find out why you need to use a Suica, how to use it, and even where to buy a Suica here!

Please note: this post may contain affiliate links. What that means is, if you click on a link and make a purchase, I may make a commission at no additional cost to you. For more information, please see my Affiliate Disclosure .

What is a Suica card?

A Suica card is a type of contactless smart card used for transportation in Japan, particularly in major cities like Tokyo. If you’ve been to New York, it’s similar to the Metro card there!

A Suica card can be purchased and loaded with a specific amount of money or linked to a credit card for automatic top-ups. It is used as a convenient and efficient way to pay for public transportation fares, including trains, subways, buses, and even some taxis.

To use a Suica card, the user just taps the card on the reader located at the ticket gate or on the transportation vehicle. The fare is automatically deducted from the card’s balance, and the remaining balance can be checked on the reader or at designated machines.

You can have either a physical Suica card or add your Suica to your iPhone and use it effortlessly from your Apple Wallet. Both are easy, but loading it to your Apple Wallet is definitely the way to go. More on that below.

It really couldn’t be any easier than that!

How do you pronounce Suica?

You may be tempted to say “soo-ee-kuh” but that is not correct.

Suica is promounced “swee-kuh”.

(You may think you’ll never need to pronounce Suica outloud, but your Suica can be used at convenience stores and Tokyo Disney, and you’ll almost certainly have to pronounce it then! Read more below)

Why use a Suica card?

A suica is super convenient for public transit.

You may be thinking “why bother with a Suica card? I’ll only be visiting for a short time – it’s going to be too much hassle for my short trip”.

I cannot emphasize enough how useful a Suica card is.

With a Suica, you can literally just tap into and out of turnstiles at public transportation hubs. You can skip the ticket line all together…

… And just head straight through the passenger gates to your platform.

Just tap and walk!

This means you are (1) skipping lines that can be long AND (2) skipping what may be a confusing ticket buying experience. (I wouldn’t know how hard it is – I haven’t had to do it! #ThanksSuica). On buses and trams, it also means that you can skip having exact change to pay your fare and just tap in & out.

A Suica is also convenient for convenience stores and vending machines!

Yes, your Suica can also be used to buy things at vending machines or other convenience stores!

The three main conbini – 7/11, Lawsons, and Family Mart – seem to have a surcharge if you pay with credit card. In my experience, at least, the cashier always seemed disappointed if I paid with credit card. Japan is very much a cash-forward society but I love the convenience of paying with cards.

Suica to the rescue!

You can nearly treat a Suica like a credit card. Top it up before making a purchase and then you can use tap-to-pay effortlessly at all the main conbini . Just politely say “Suica?” when going to pay and the cashier will help you navigate to do that.

You can also use it to make purchases at vending machines! Get water, electrolyte drinks, coffee drinks, juice, and even alcoholic beverages… all with a quick tap of the Suica.

Your Suica can even be used to make purchases at Tokyo Disney

Tokyo Disney was definitely more credit card friendly than anywhere else I went in Japan, but I hated having to pull out my card everytime I wanted a churro or a drink.

Using my Suica in my Apple Wallet let me make purchases super easily without whipping out a credit card. It was accepted everywhere that I found – including in the shops!

Why to get a Suica card on your iPhone

Tourists love to purchase the physical Suica card but getting the Suica on your iPhone just elevates the convenience of the Suica card.

Imagine not having to worry about keeping your little physical Suica card safe… not having to pull it out in the middle of hectic rush hour in Tokyo … not having to worry about topping it off… not wondering what the balance is on your physical Suica…

Without a doubt, the absolute best way to have a Suica is to add it to your Apple Wallet. Just pull the phone out of your pocket and tap in and out at the reader on the turnstiles above. You don’t even need to unlock your phone to use it! You can pull it out with a dark, black screen and tap in and out – and your fare will still be processed.

The tap-to-pay at the conbini and vending machines is equally valuable. No digging around for a card (of any kind!) or rumaging through your bag for coins to get your drink – tap, pay, drink. Easy.

How to get a Suica card on your iPhone

I hope you’re convinced now that having the Suica on your iPhone is incredibly convenient.

Open up your Apple Wallet and hit the “+” button in the upper right-hand corner.

Hit “Transit Card” in the bottom box of options and then search “Suica”. Tap Suica, press continue, and then select a yen amount. 1000 yen will be $10 or less with current exchange rates, but you can enter any value you want here.

After that, voila! You have your Suica linked to your Apple Wallet and now will get all the benefits outlined above.

If you weren’t able to add money to your Suica, you may have incompatible cards. When I visited Japan (November – December 2023), only MasterCard was accepted for foreigners. I had to open up a new card in order to top up my Suica which may sound crazy, but it guaranteed that I was alway carrying a broadly-accepted card while in Japan, so it was worth it.

Rumor has it that Visa is going to be accepted soon, but you may need to get a MasterCard until then.

How to buy a physical Suica card

Not willing to mess around with Apple Wallet? Not using an iPhone? No worries, you can always buy a physical Suica card!

To buy a Suica card, you can simply head to any major train station in Japan. Look for the ticket machines or ticket counters, often located near the entrance or inside the station. Go to the ticket machine or counter and select the option for purchasing a Suica card. The machine will guide you through the process, prompting you to select the desired amount to load onto the card. You’ll be charged a deposit that is refundable once you return the card.

The official Suica website indicates that the card can only be loaded with yen instead of a credit card, but some bloggers say it can be loaded with a credit card. It may depend on where you purchase your Suica, I’m sorry I’m unsure!

A “Welcome Suica” is an alternative option for tourists only. It is only valid for 28 days from the date of purchase and doesn’t require a deposit, but still carries all the benefits of the regular Suica card. Both physical Suicas and Welcome Suicas seem to be limited lately due to semiconducter chip shortages, so please research availability of both before departing for Japan.

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• Transportation

Guide to Suica Cards

How to get a suica card and more.

For a convenient and stress-free travel experience, both around Tokyo and in regions beyond, it’s worth investing in a Suica card. This debit-style transportation card is popular with both residents of Japan and visitors alike. Take the hassle out of trying to figure out metro routes and ticket costs by purchasing a rechargeable Suica card.

What is a Suica card?

Suica is a debit-style transportation card sold by the JR Rail Company in its Tokyo train station hubs, as well as in locations such as Haneda and Narita Airports. This distinctive bright green card with its penguin logo can be used almost indefinitely – it doesn’t expire unless a period of ten years has passed between uses, and any monetary balance remains unaffected in that time.

What are the benefits of having a Suica card?

Above all – convenience. With Japan still often considered a cash-based society, it pays to have a multi-purpose card that can take care of most of your travel needs, but the Suica IC card can achieve a lot more:

• Tap-and-go access to trains, buses and trams around Japan. More >
• Pay at vending machines, shops and restaurants. More >
• Access to luggage storage lockers at stations. More >

How are Suica and PASMO different?

Many first-time visitors to Japan may often wonder what are the differences between Suica and PASMO – another IC travel card often mentioned.

PASMO cards are transportation cards that are designed and sold by Tokyo Metro. Suica cards are designed and sold by Japan Rail (JR).

Aside from their outward appearance, there is virtually no difference in usage between the Suica and PASMO cards. For travelers or visitors staying near the center of Tokyo, which has an abundance of Tokyo metro stations, it may simply be easier to purchase a PASMO card from the nearest station instead of making the trek to a more outlying JR rail station.

How can I purchase a Suica?

Suica cards can be purchased from ticket machines in most of Tokyo’s main JR rail stations (ie Tokyo, Hamamatsucho, Shimbashi, Shinjuku, Shibuya, etc). English instructions walk buyers through the steps needed to obtain a card. Cards can be personalized or left blank – if personalized, a card that is lost can later be identified and reclaimed with proof of identification.

Cards require an initial ¥500 deposit, though this can be reclaimed when returning the card (inside the station) at the end of your holiday.

How to top up a Suica

Cards can be topped up immediately, or at regular intervals as needed. When charging the card, cash can be added in increments of ¥1000. Suica cards can hold a balance of up to ¥20,000. Only yen cash can be used to add money to a Suica card. Credit cards are not accepted.

You can also top up a Suica at most ticket machines, even at non-JR stations, such as Tokyo Metro, as well as buses that accept Suica/PASMO.

Did you know? If you are caught out and run out of charge on the card when arriving at a station, you can even top-up at special kiosks inside the gates before you exit. It reduces the need to worry about trying to calculate the exact fare between stations.

For children aged 6-11, a special youth Suica card can be obtained. Marked with the kanji for small (小), this card entitles younger users to a discount of 50% on the regular train fare. Youth Suica cannot be purchased at the self-service kiosks and must be bought in person from a JR staff member in one of the JR train offices. Presentation of identification or of the minor him or herself may be required.

Step-by-step guide to buying the Suica

• Find the nearest ticket vending machine.
• Touch the 'English' button on the right corner of the monitor to switch languages for easier use.
• Select 'Purchase New Suica' on the lower left panel.
• You'll have 3 options: MySuica (for personalization - useful if needing to reclaim a lost card), Suica and Charge.
• There are several options you can choose, from ¥1000 to ¥10,000 (including the deposit cost of ¥500).
• Insert cash.
• And finally, take your Suica card, change, and receipt.

Returning your Suica when leaving Japan

If you decide not to keep your Suica for future use, you may return it to any JR rail office.

If any amount of money over ¥220 is left on the card, the JR company will charge a fee of ¥220 to process a refund and return the remaining amount to you. If the balance is under ¥220, no refund is issued and the balance is zeroed out.

(This includes balances such as ¥80, that would end up in negative numbers upon subtraction of the refund fee. The balance is simply zeroed out with no penalty to the card holder.)

However, all customers will receive the initial ¥500 deposit back upon turning in the card.

Where can I use my Suica card?

Travel with suica.

Suica are most commonly used as transportation passes, which users simply tap over the ticket gate to gain entry to the train tracks and tap again to exit a station, where the fare for the journey is automatically calculated and debited. There is a small discount on single journeys for those that use a Suica pass compared to those that rely strictly on paper tickets.

While cards emblazoned with Suica are sold in Tokyo, these JR-sponsored passes are also usable on regional forms of transportation.

Since 2013, Suica can be used interchangeably with the regional IC cards, like Kansai's ICOCA and PiTaPa, Nagoya's TOICA and Manaca, Sapporo's Kitaca, Fukuoka's SUGOCA and Hayakaken and Kyushu's nimoca. Hiroshima's street car/trams also support Suica, as well as several other regional transport systems.

Note that continuous travel between different regions of Japan is not possible just on a Suica alone.

Shop with Suica

Suica can also be used to make purchases at vending machines marked with the card’s logo. Simply tap the card against the machine’s card reader, select the product of your choice, and tap your card a second time to complete the purchase.

Many convenience stores also now provide an option for Suica holders to use their card to pay for purchases. Look for the card reader at the cash register and follow the clerk’s instructions or the instructions on the screen.

Many restaurant chains also support payments by Suica – just look for the familiar green logo near the payment terminal.

Luggage Storage

A number of lockers in Japan have begun switching to a coinless system, where users access their bags with a Suica or other debit-style transportation card.

Often found in train stations, these lockers don’t require a key for entry, and instead provide an entry code to be used in conjunction with the Suica card when reclaiming any baggage.

• Public Transport

Sarah Endarastya @endarastya.sarah

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Suica, Pasmo, Icoca and seven more of Japan's most popular IC cards were made compatible with each other in 2013, making it possible to travel on almost all trains , subways and buses in most of Japan's largest cities with just a single of these cards.

What is an IC card?

IC cards are rechargeable cards that can be used to conveniently pay fares on public transportation and to make payments at many vending machines , shops and restaurants by simply touching the card on a reader for about one second. Dozens of train and bus operators across Japan have started issuing their own IC cards since 2001.

Instead of physical IC cards, it is possible to use digital versions of some of the cards on mobile phones ; however, at present, oversea tourists can do this only if they own an Iphone .

What are the ten major IC cards?

The following ten major IC cards are compatible with each other:

What is covered and what is not?

The ten cards are valid on virtually all trains, subways and buses in most of Japan's major cities, including Tokyo , Osaka , Kyoto , Nagoya and Fukuoka . But there are a few issues to keep in mind:

It is not possible to travel outside IC card areas. Both, the origin and destination stations have to be located inside the IC card's coverage area. Furthermore, it is not possible to use an IC card to travel between disjoined IC card areas (except when using shinkansen trains; see details below). For example, you cannot use it to travel between Tokyo and Sendai .

IC cards can be used on selected shinkansen lines, but need some set-up before use. There are currently three different systems:

• On the Tokaido/Sanyo/Kyushu Shinkansen IC cards can be used on the Tokaido / Sanyo / Kyushu Shinkansen via the Tokaido Sanyo Kyushu Shinkansen Online Reservation Service . In order to do so, one or more IC cards and a credit card have to be registered on the website or app (note that the app is available only in a limited number of countries and known as smart EX). Afterwards, it is possible to purchase shinkansen tickets online and use the registered IC cards to pass through the shinkansen ticket gates. Fares are charged to the registered credit card rather than subtracted from the IC cards' balance.
• On shinkansen in eastern and northern Japan It is possible to use regular IC cards on all shinkansen trains in eastern and northern Japan by purchasing e-tickets through JR East's reservation website . Fares are charged to the registered credit card rather than subtracted from the IC cards' balance.
• On shinkansen operated by JR East Regular IC cards can be used on non-reserved seats along the Tohoku, Akita, Yamagata , Joetsu and Hokuriku Shinkansen trains (Hokuriku Shinkansen only between Tokyo and Joetsu-Myoko stations). Before you can use an IC card for this service, which is known as "Touch de Go", a one-time set-up procedure is required at a ticket machine. Fares will be subtracted from the IC card's balance.

When riding other trains that require a supplement fee, e.g. limited express trains, travelers can use the IC card to pay the base fare when passing through the ticket gates, but the supplement ticket needs to be purchased separately at a ticket machine, office or online.

Many highway buses cannot be paid by IC card.

The table below shows in more detail the coverage of the IC cards:

How to use IC cards?

When passing automatic ticket gates, touch the card onto the card reader for about one second (rather than inserting it into the ticket slot). The applicable fare will be automatically deducted when you exit through the ticket gate at your destination station. When riding buses , card readers are placed at the entrance and/or exit of the bus. A card cannot be shared by multiple travelers for the same ride. Each traveler needs a separate card.

Is there a discount over regular tickets?

IC cards generally do not provide any discounts over regular tickets. But in Greater Tokyo , Niigata and Sendai , train fares can differ by a few yen depending on whether an IC card or a paper ticket is used. This is because fares are rounded to the nearest ten yen in case of paper tickets, but not rounded in case of IC cards. Around central Tokyo, payment by IC card is always cheaper than payment by paper ticket (by up to nine yen), but outside of central Tokyo, either ticket type can be up to five yen cheaper than the other.

Where to get an IC card?

IC cards can be purchased at ticket machines and ticket counters of the issuing railway companies. The initial cost consists of a refundable deposit of 500 yen plus an initial amount (typically 1500 yen) to be charged onto the card. For a surcharge, Suica and Pasmo cards can also be purchased and sent to you before the start of your trip through Japan Experience . Last but not least, Iphone users can add Suica, Pasmo and Icoca cards to Apple Pay .

Are there digital versions of the IC cards?

Iphone 8 and later models can be set up to serve as Suica, Pasmo and Icoca cards by adding the cards to Apple Pay, but note that some credit cards issued outside of Japan cannot be used to charge your card.

Android phones can be used as IC cards through the "Mobile Suica", "Mobile Pasmo" and "Mobile Icoca" apps; however, the apps are targeted at residents of Japan and difficult or impossible to use for visitors to Japan. Specifically, they require Osaifu Keitai compatibility, which is not provided by most phones sold outside of Japan, come in Japanese only, and require an address in Japan and possibly a credit card that has been issued in Japan.

Which IC card shall I get?

The IC cards are virtually identical to each other in terms of coverage. The cards differ mainly on where they can be purchased and refunded. Therefore, most people will want to purchase the card available in the first city they visit, e.g. Suica or Pasmo in Tokyo or Icoca in Osaka . If you load a digital card onto your mobile phone , then you have the choice of Suica, Pasmo or Icoca regardless of your geographical location.

How to recharge IC cards?

IC cards can be recharged at ticket machines and special re-charging machines found in strategically meaningful locations. They can also be recharged at stations of companies other than the issuing company, e.g. Suica can also be recharged in Osaka . Furthermore, many convenience stores allow IC cards to be recharged at the cashier. The maximum amount to be charged onto a card is 20,000 yen.

How to check the current balance?

The current credit balance is shown on a small display whenever you pass a ticket gate or make a payment at a store. Furthermore, the balance can be checked at ticket machines together with a usage history.

How to get back the 500 yen refundable deposit?

Bring your card to the ticket counter of the issuing operator in order to get back your 500 yen deposit. Unused credit can also be refunded; however, most companies will subtract a 220 yen handling fee from the remaining balance. Note that IC cards can be returned only to the issuing company, e.g. it is not possible to return a Suica card in Osaka or an Icoca card in Tokyo .

Is there an expiry date?

Cards become invalid if they are not used for ten years.

Besides regular cards, there are personalized cards which can be replaced if lost (handling fee applies), commuter cards which also serve as a commuter pass, and cards for children.

Questions? Ask in our forum .

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SUICA card at Haneda airport?! ✈ YES I bought IC card at Tokyo airport! Here’s where to buy and how 🍵 Tokyo Japan travel blog

So you’re going to be in Tokyo for a few days and you know you need a suica card !

And if you don’t know…

The reason you will HIGHLY want to consider getting a suica card is because it can basically make your life easier while traveling around Tokyo!

These cards won’t save you any money, but they will allow you to avoid the hassle of having to buy individual train tickets before you board the train, and they will allow you to avoid having to pay for the bus fare with coins.

They are basically cash cards, and all you need to do is swipe to pay for your ticket!

You will be able to use a suica card at most places across Japan that accept “IC cards.”

There are different types of IC cards, and the suica card is one of the popular ones in Tokyo.

The pasmo card is also popular in Tokyo. The icoca card is popular in Kyoto, and in Okinawa there is the okica card .)

If you’re landing in Tokyo at Haneda airport, can you get a suica card right away?!

Yes, you can!

And you can use it immediately to get to your hotel in Tokyo by train from the airport!

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Where can you buy a suica card at the airport?!

If you’re headed into the city, you can get there by first taking a train from Haneda airport.

So once you arrive in Tokyo…

You will look for signs that point you in the direction of the train line you want to take.

The directions below are if you are taking the “monorail” train.

But depending on where in Tokyo you’re heading, you might be looking for another train line. Consult Google Maps for which train line is best to take for your destination.

No matter which train you take (or even if you won’t be taking the train at all from the airport – there’s a bus too), the process is basically the same for buying a suica card!

So following the signs will bring you to the train ticket gate.

And right next to the ticket gate, you will find a number of ticket machines.

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This is where you would buy train tickets if you weren’t going to use a suica card.

And it’s also the place where you can get your first suica card.

WELCOME TO JAPAN suica card

I was most recently at Haneda Airport in May 2023 when I bought suica cards for my cousin’s family.

There are several ticket machines for the monorail.

There is a sign for the ticket machine if you want to buy a “welcome suica” card.

When I was there, this line was long with foreigners, while there was no line for the other ticket machines.

I imagine since there’s a sign that says “suica card” it makes it seem like you must go to that ticket machine if you want to buy a suica card.

But if you don’t need a “welcome” suica card, then you can buy the suica card at one of the other ticket machines too!

The “welcome” card does make for a nice souvenir, though!

And the welcome suica card does expire, unlike the regular suica card.

And, for the regular suica card, you will be able to get the additional 500 yen back that you paid for the card if you want to cash in your remaining balance at the end of your trip.

For the welcome suica card, you will not get that extra 500 yen back. (That’s around US$5.)

Suica card for kids

I don’t know if you can buy a suica card for kids at the other monorail ticket machine with no line.

But I do know that you can buy a suica card for kids at the “welcome” ticket machine, since that’s where I did buy a kid’s suica card for my cousin’s child.

I also tried buying a kid’s pasmo card at a different train station at Haneda Airport, but it was not possible to buy a kid’s card at the ticket machine I was at. (I did verify this with a train station worker.) So I went back up to the monorail ticket machine to buy a kids suica card.

If you have kids 6 to 11, then you want a suica card for kids. (Or another type of IC card for kids if the suica isn’t the first type of IC card you have the opportunity to buy.)

The child train fare is 50% off the adult fare.

For the most part, kids 5 and under can take the train for free.

There is an attendant at the monorail ticket machine, so you can ask if you can buy a kid’s suica card at the other machine too if you want to skip the line.

You need to buy suica cards one at a time

Whether there’s 2 of you or 4 of you in your group, you will need to buy your suica cards one by one at the ticket machine.

You won’t be able to buy 4 suica cards all at once from a ticket machine.

Do you need cash to buy a suica card from a ticket machine?

For the most part (if not always), my US credit card has not worked at train ticket machines in Japan.

I’ve tried a few times and failed, so now I just don’t try anymore.

So if your credit card is denied at the ticket machine, it’s not necessarily a problem with your credit card company, but rather something to do with foreign credit cards in general.

There is an ATM machine next to the monorail ticket machines.

If you are American and you have some time before your trip to Japan, I recommend looking into a Charles Schwab checking account. No ATM fees, worldwide! Or rather, you are reimbursed at the end of the month. The “catch” is that you do need to open up a brokerage account at the same time, but you don’t need to use it.

How to actually buy a suica card?!

Once you’re at the ticket machine, it’s pretty straight forward!

First click the “English” button, and then just follow the prompts!

You have the option to get a “suica” or “my suica” card.

With the my suica card, you can put your name on it.

You will then be prompted to choose how much money you want to put on your card.

You will want to choose at least the 2,000 yen option if you’re headed to Tokyo Station, Shinjuku, or another main area of Tokyo.

Since there’s a 500 yen deposit with the suica card, if you choose the 1,000 yen option, that leaves you with 500 yen on the card.

This won’t be enough to get you to Tokyo.

Then you’ll enter the cash into the machine. (No credit cards at this machine as of February 2019.)

And then you have your suica card!

How to use the suica card for the train from the airport?!

And then once you have the suica card in your possession, it’s swipe IN, and swipe OUT!

At the ticket gate, there will be a spot that says “IC card.”

And it’s here that you will swipe your card to get through the ticket gates and onto the train.

Most ticket gates will also have a display that says how much money you have left on the card once you swipe.

Then you’ll take the train to Tokyo!!

(Or maybe 2 trains.)

And then when you are at your destination, you will swipe to get out.

That’s when money will be deducted from your card.

There is also usually a display of how much was charged and how much you have left.

HAPPY USING YOUR SUICA CARD FOR THE FIRST TIME AT HANEDA AIRPORT!

Is a jr pass worth it.

• Google maps can make it easy to figure out whether or not you should get a JR pass!
• In google maps, type in your departure and arrival city, and choose the transit icon. The route will come up, and so will the estimated cost at the bottom!
• Here is an example of a train route with cost on google maps.
• So do that for all of your long distance routes to figure out how much it might cost.
• Next, go here to see how much a JR pass costs from an official JR pass vendor (and partner of this website).
• And compare!
• Not all forms of public transportation are JR, but long distance shinkansen bullet trains are, and that's where the most cost savings will come.

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Suica & Pasmo Cards

The Suica and Pasmo cards are money cards created to pay for the various different kinds of transport in Tokyo and parts of Japan.

Although both cards are independent (Suica comes from Japan Rail, and Pasmo from other companies), both cards are compatible and can be charged and used in the same places .

Outside Tokyo the Suica card is more widely accepted, therefore it's the best option for those travellers who are going to travel outside Tokyo.

The Suica card initially costs ¥ 1 ( US$ 0), of which 500 is credit and the other 500 goes as a deposit . This deposit is returned when you return the card to the Japan Rail (Suica).

The Pasmo card costs ¥ 500 ( US$ 3.40), which is non-refundable, as well as the money you want to charge it with.

Where can you buy it?

You can but these cards in the offices of Japan Rail (the Suica card) or in the offices of the other train companies (Pasmo).

Not only transport

Little by little the Suica/Pasmo card has begun to substitute cash money. These days you can pay in vending machines, shops, and some restaurants near the stations using these cards .

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Japan Rail Pass

The Japan Rail Pass is a card that allows unlimited use of JR trains up and down the country. This is an essential card for travelers who are planning to travel beyond Tokyo. 

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Narita arrival and distance to kesei information, and wifi

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Tokyo airporter says they meet in the arrival halls after customs and will wait for up to 90 minutes which we obviously don't want to push, so trying to get a sense of what's realistic.

Barring unexpected flight delays, I'm trying to gauge how close to the arrival halls two things are:

The kesei skyline information area (my understanding is this is where I can purchase suica or pasmo cards)

The Narita Airport Terminal 1 1F JAL ABC for a ninja wifi pickup.

Thanks for the help!

IC card purchase is in the airport train station in the basement.

Consider having your WiFi unit sent to your first hotel rather than picking it up in the airport. You won’t need it for the airport transfer.

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How to get around Tokyo

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

• roughguides.com
• getting-around-tokyo

written by Ties Lagraauw

updated 15.03.2024

Tokyo’s public transport system is efficient, clean and safe, with trains and subways the best way of getting around; a lack of signs in English makes the bus system a lot more challenging. For short, cross-town journeys, taxis are handy and, if shared by a group of people, not all that expensive. Sightseeing tours are also worth considering if you are pushed for time or would like a guided commentary. Here is all you need to know about getting around Tokyo.

• How to get around Tokyo at a glance
• Tokyo's public transport, featuring an efficient subway and train network , is ideal for city exploration. It's tourist-friendly with color-coded maps, English signage, and station codes. Trains extend the reach within and beyond Tokyo.
• The Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway , the two main systems, are interconnected but require a special ticket for seamless transfers. Vending machines at stations make ticket purchases easy.
• For unique views of Tokyo Bay, consider water buses , or opt for taxis or Uber for flexible travel, though these are pricier options.
• For convenience, a Pasmo or JR Suica card is recommended, allowing easy travel despite not offering direct savings.

Getting around in Tokyo by subway

Getting around tokyo by train, useful transport passes and travel cards, getting around tokyo by ferry, getting around tokyo by taxi and uber.

Its colourful map may look daunting, but Tokyo’s subway is relatively easy to negotiate. The simple colour-coding on trains and maps, as well as clear signposts (many also in English), directional arrows and alpha-numeric station codes, make this by far the most gaijin -friendly form of transport. It's te easiest way to getting around Tokyo . You’ll have a much less crowded journey if you avoid travelling at rush hour (7.30–9am & 5–7.30pm).

There are two systems: 

• The nine-line Tokyo Metro 
• The four-line Toei 

The systems share some stations, but unless you buy a special ticket from the vending machines that specifies your route from one system to the other, or you have a pas), you cannot switch mid-journey between the two sets of lines without paying extra at the ticket barrier. Subways also connect to overland train lines, such as the Yamanote. 

How to book tickets

Tickets are bought at the vending machines beside the electronic ticket gates (ticket sales windows are only found at major stations). Ticket machines generally have multi-language functions, but if you’re fazed by the wide range of price buttons, either get a travel pass, or buy the cheapest ticket and sort out the difference with the gatekeeper at the other end.

Trains run daily from around 5am to just after midnight, and during peak daytime hours as frequently as every five minutes (and at least every fifteen minutes at other times). Maps close to the ticket barriers, and often on the platforms themselves, indicate where the exits emerge.

Tokyo Metro ©Pixabay

Although trains are more suitable for travelling throughout Japan , it's also a great way for getting around Tokyo . Japan Railways East , part of the national rail network, runs the main overland services in and around Tokyo, and there are also several private railways , including lines run by Odakyū, Tōbu, Seibu and Tōkyū. They all have their own colour coding on maps, with the various JR lines coming in many different shades – take care not to confuse these with those of the subway network. The famous JR Yamanote train line (shown in green on network maps, and indicated by green flashes on the trains) loops around the city centre.

Another useful JR route is the orange Chūōline , which starts at Tokyo station and runs west to Shinjuku and the suburbs beyond; rapid services (look for the red kanji characters on the side of the train, or on the platform displays) miss out some stations. JR’s yellow Sōbu line goes from Chiba in the east to Mitaka in the west, and runs parallel to the Chūō line in the centre of Tokyo. The blue JR Keihin Tōhoku line runs from Ōmiya in the north through Tokyo station, and on to Yokohama and beyond. It’s fine to transfer between JR lines on the same ticket.

Ticket machines are easy to operate if buying single tickets, if you can find your destination.

If you’re planning a lot of train travel around Japan in a short period of time, the Japan Rail Pass can be a great deal, though you have to buy this outside Japan before you travel; prepare for giant queues if picking it up at the airport, though note that you can also pick it up from any major JR station. JR East offers its own versions of the pass, covering its network in the Tokyo region and northern Japan; these can be purchased in Japan from JR ticket offices.

The Japanese Bullet trains ©Shutterstock

A useful alternative to buying individual tickets is to get one of the many types of pass available, or to use a prepaid travel card.

Both Tokyo Metro and Toei have 24-hour tickets for use on their respective subway systems, with the Toei pass also covering the city’s buses; depending upon your precise plans, it may work out better to get a one-day economy pass covering both systems.

JR has its own one-day Tokunai Pass , which gives unlimited travel on JR trains within the Tokyo Metropolitan District Area.

For day-use of the city’s subways, JR trains and buses there’s the Tokyo Free Ticket , but since it’s double the price of the other passes, you’d really have to be tearing all over town to get your money’s worth.

Prepaid Cards

Although they don’t save you any money, the most convenient way to travel is to use a Pasmo or JR Suica stored-value card. Both can be used on all subways, many buses and both JR and private trains in the wider Tokyo area. The card can be recharged at ticket machines and ticket offices. Cards are available from ticket machines in metro and JR stations, for a minimum pre-loaded fee plus a deposit, which will both be returned to you when you cash in the card before leaving Tokyo – note that this can be done at Haneda airport, but not Narita.

shinkansen Railway in Tokyo ©Shutterstock

The Tokyo Cruise Ship Company runs several ferry services, known as suijō basu (water buses), in and around Tokyo Bay. The popular Sumida- gawa service (every 30–50min, 10am–6.30pm; 40min) plies the route between Hinode Pier on Tokyo Bay and Asakusa to the northeast of the city centre. Some boats call at the Hama Rikyū Teien, entry to which is often included with the ticket price; you can also head to Hinode from Odaiba (20min). 

The ferries’ large picture windows give a completely different view of the city from the one you’ll get on the streets – reason enough for hopping aboard. For a little more you can travel on the Emeraldas, Himiko or Hotaluna services, near-identical space-age ferries that run from Asakusa to Odaiba (6 daily), sometimes via Hinode.

Hinode Pier (close by Hinode station on the Yurika- mome monorail or a 10min walk from Hamamatsuchō station on the Yamanote line) is also the jumping-off point for several good daily cruises around Tokyo Bay, and for ferries to various points around the island of Odaiba, or across to Kasai Rinkai-kōen on the east side of the bay.

With the rise of Uber , a taxi is a great way for getting around Tokyo. After the basic starting rate for the first 1km, the meter racks up, including a time charge when the taxi is moving at less than 10km per hour. Between 11pm and 5am, rates are 25 percent higher.

Most taxis have a limit of four passengers. There’s never any need to open or close the passenger doors, which are operated by the taxi driver – trying to do it manually can damage the mechanism, and will get your driver seething. 

Ties is a true world explorer - whether it be for work or leisure! As Content Manager at RoughGuides, and the owner of Dutch travel platform Reis-Expert.nl , Ties is constantly on the move, always looking for new destinations to discover.

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JCB ensures convenient Tokyo tourism experience

Posted: March 22, 2024 | Last updated: March 22, 2024

Tokyo (Japan), March 21 (ANI): JCB, the Japan's First International Credit Card, ensures convenience for foreign tourists in Tokyo Metropolitan Area. Annually, 9 million foreigners check in and out at Narita Airport, where JCB provides a calm resting environment for foreign cardholders. Many tourists who travel from Narita airport to Ueno in Tokyo prefers to take Keisei Sky Liner. It helps to complete the distance of around 60 kilometers in just 36 minutes. The Tokyo Metro network is the most convenient transportation option in the Tokyo Metropolitan area. It offers the 'Tokyo Subway Ticket,' an all-you-can-ride pass for foreign visitors. Additionally, JCB provides original pass cases to foreign JCB cardholders. Takeya, a renowned souvenir shop in the Okachimachi area of Tokyo, also offers a 10 percent discount to foreign JCB cardholders. Many foreign JCB cardholders, who are visiting the Tokyo Tower, a popular sightseeing spot, also gets a 30 percent discount. JCB is targeting foreign visitors to the Tokyo Metropolitan area. Its hospitality is dynamically shaped to provide a satisfactory tour experience for foreigners.

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