For first-time travelers to Japan, transportation IC cards are essential tools that make your journey smoother. While Japan offers various IC cards, this post will highlight three of the most popular options.
- Suica Card
- Welcome Suica Card
- PASMO Card
These convenient IC cards aren’t just for transportation—they can also be used at vending machines, convenience stores, and more. In this article, we’ll compare these cards and help you figure out which one is best suited for your trip.
What is IC card?
An IC card in Japan is a rechargeable smart card used for electronic payments in various transportation systems and other services. Here’s what you can use it for:
- Public Transportation: Use IC cards to pay for trains, subways, and buses without needing to buy individual tickets.
- Vending Machines: Many vending machines accept IC cards, making it easy to purchase drinks and snacks.
- Convenience Stores: You can use IC cards for quick payments at convenience stores and some restaurants.
- Tolls: Some IC cards can be used for toll payments on expressways.
- Bicycle Rentals: Certain rental services accept IC cards for easy bike rentals.
Overall, IC cards make traveling and daily purchases in Japan more convenient and efficient.
Purchasing Suica, PASMO cards
Due to a global semiconductor shortage, the sale of Suica and PASMO IC cards had been temporarily suspended. However, as the supply of semiconductors has recovered and is expected to continue stably, the sales of personalized (registered) Suica and PASMO cards resumed on September 1, 2024.
When purchasing the physical Suica or PASMO card, you need to register your information first.
- Personal Information: These cards have the cardholder’s name and other personal details printed on them.
- Security: They offer higher security as they are linked to the cardholder’s identity.
- Replacement: If lost or stolen, they can be reissued with the same balance and information.
Comparison chart (Suica, Welcome Suica, PASMO)
Here, we’ll compare the three types of IC cards.
Note: These cards can be purchased in Tokyo and within the JR East service area.
For information on IC card available in other regions outside of the Tokyo area, please check here.
Suica | Welcome Suica | PASMO | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Where to Purchase | JR East ticket machines and counters | JR East ticket machines and counters | Tokyo Metro stations, ticket machines |
| App Availability | Mobile Suica app, Apple Pay, Google Pay | Not available for use with the Suica app | Mobile PASMO app, Apple Pay, Google Pay |
| Charging Methods | Station ticket machines, via app, convenience stores | Station ticket machines, convenience stores No online recharge | Station ticket machines, via app, convenience stores |
| Applicable Trains | Most trains, subways, and buses in Japan | Most trains, subways, and buses in Japan | Most trains, subways, and buses in Japan |
| Vending Machine | Usable at compatible vending machines | Usable at compatible vending machines | Usable at compatible vending machines |
| Deposit | 500 yen deposit for the physical card | Valid for 28 days, No deposit required | 500 yen deposit for the physical card |
| Refunds | Refundable with fee | No refunds | Refundable |
Using the Mobile Apps / Apple Wallet, Google Pay
Both Suica and PASMO offer a mobile app, which allows you to add and recharge the card on your phone. Unfortunately, neither the Suica nor PASMO mobile apps are fully available in English as of now.
Adding the card through Apple Wallet or Google Pay is often more convenient for travelers visiting Japan. These platforms allow you to manage and recharge your cards with a user-friendly, English interface.
How to add a Suica card to Apple Wallet
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to add a Suica card to Apple Wallet.
- Open the Wallet App on your iPhone.
- Tap the “+” icon in the upper right corner to add a new card.
- Select “Transit Card”
- Type “Suica” on the search window and select “Suica”
- Select Amount
- Read “Terms and Conditions”
- Confirm the Payment
- Start using Suica
Once added, you can start using your Suica card in Apple Wallet for transportation and purchases in Japan.
What if I am not in Tokyo area?
Not traveling in the Tokyo area? No problem!
The Suica card can be purchased outside the Tokyo area, but only in regions where JR East operates, such as Sendai and Niigata.
If you are traveling to areas primarily serviced by JR West, such as Osaka or Kyoto, you can purchase ICOCA, which is JR West’s equivalent IC card. Like Suica, it can also be used across most public transportation networks and at shops throughout Japan.
You can purchase ICOCA card at ticket machines and counters at JR West stations or at ICOCA-compatible ticket vending machines.
The Mobile ICOCA app is not available for download in the U.S. (as of now). The card can be added to Apple Wallet or Google Pay.
What to Expect in Spring 2025
In spring 2025, JR East is set to introduce new services aimed at enhancing the convenience of overseas visitors to Japan. Here’s what you can look forward to:
- Launch of the “Welcome Suica Mobile” App:
- Pre-issue Suica: Download the app and issue Suica in advance for smooth travel.
- Easy Top-up: Charge your Suica anytime, anywhere using a credit card set up for Apple Pay.
- Touch de Go! Shinkansen: Use non-reserved seats on Shinkansen by simply touching the ticket gate with Suica.
- Real-Time Information: Access sightseeing and train operation information through the app.