IC Cards are back! But what are they? And where can you get IC Cards in Japan?
IC Cards, such as a Suica or Pasmo cards, are rechargeable contactless smart cards widely used for public transportation and some tap and go purchases in Japan. They are a seamless way to utilize Japan’s public transport, they work across trains (JR and private lines), subways, buses, and even some ferries nationwide, eliminating the need for purchasing individual tickets which can be time consuming and a little confusing.
How to use them.
It’s as simple as purchasing a card (see where to get them), loading it with money, and then tapping your card against the IC Card readers as you enter and exit through station gates, or board and disembark buses. As you tap off at your destination, the cost of your trip and your cards balance will be displayed on the screen, so it’s easy to keep an eye on your balance and know when you may need to re-charge. When you do need to re-charge, you can load money onto your IC Card at most any station throughout Japan, in amongst the ticket machines, there will 1, or 2 machines marked with either ‘IC CARD’ ‘PASMO’ or ‘SUICA’ and you simply insert your IC Card, click the ‘English’ option in the language settings on the machines, and follow the prompts to load it up. Keep in mind that these machines often don’t accept international credit cards, or credit cards at all for that matter, so ensure you have cash handy when you need to reload.
It’s also important to note that IC Cards cannot generally be used on Shinkansens (bullet trains), so you’ll have to purchase individual tickets at the JR Ticket offices for those longer trips. But for navigating your way around each individual city, an IC Card is invaluable.
Where to get them.
Since the international semiconductor card chip shortage, IC Cards are not as readily available as they once were, but they are still available.
Suica (Regular)
Valid for 10 Years - ¥600 Issuance Fee - Refunds issued for loaded funds if returned. - Requires a Passport
As of February 2024, regular Suica cards have once again become available at Narita Airport and Tokyo Station. They’re intended for tourists only, so ensure you have your passport on you when purchasing.
Welcome Suica
Valid for 28 days - No Issuance Fee - No Refunds for loaded funds. - Can Require a Passport.
As of December 2023, Welcome Suica cards are available at the JR EAST Travel Service Center and Terminal 3 at Haneda Airport.
Pasmo Passport
Valid for 28 days - No Issuance Fee - No Refunds for loaded funds. - Requires a Passport
Can be purchased at Haneda and Narita Airport, and Ueno, Ueno Okachimachi, Otemachi, Ginza, Shimbashi, Shinagawa, Shibuya, Mei-ji Jingu Mae, Shinjuku, Takadanobaba, Ikebukuro, and Iidabashi Stations.
Digital IC Cards
For Iphones exclusively, not available of Android phones purchased from outside Japan.
1. Go to the Wallet app and select “Add”.
2. Select the “Transit Card” option.
3. Choose either Suica or PASMO, then select “Continue”.
4. Finally, enter in how much you want to charge your card, and then select “Add”. You will then be prompted to confirm your purchase, and that’s it.
