Last Updated on 2025年8月25日 by Kenty
Japan IC Card Guide 2025
100% Verified Information • Current Services Only
Important 2025 Updates
- IC Card Sales Resumed: As of March 1, 2025, all IC cards are available again
- PASMO Passport Discontinued: Service ended August 2024, no longer available
- Verified Metro Fares: Minimum Tokyo Metro fare is ¥178 (not ¥220)
- Mobile Apps: Welcome Suica app launched March 6, 2025
What Are IC Cards?
Lightning Fast Technology
- 13.56 MHz RFID: Advanced FeliCa technology
- 0.1 Second Transactions: Instant tap and go
- Secure Encryption: Bank-level security
- No Power Needed: Passive RFID technology
Nationwide Coverage
- All Major Railways: JR, Metro, Private lines
- Local Buses: City and intercity routes
- 163万 Stores: Convenience stores to restaurants
- Vending Machines: 5+ million nationwide
Real Money Savings
Welcome Suica: Perfect for Tourists
Why Choose Welcome Suica?
- No Deposit Required: Full amount available for use
- 28-Day Validity: Perfect for tourist stays
- Easy Purchase: Show passport, buy instantly
- Souvenir Value: Keep as memorable keepsake
Verified Pricing (2025)
Where to Buy Welcome Suica
Tokyo Area:
- Narita Airport (Terminals 1, 2, 3)
- Haneda Airport (Terminal 3 – Tokyo Monorail)
- JR East Travel Service Centers
- JAPAN RAIL CAFÉ locations
Major Stations:
- Tokyo Station
- Shinjuku Station
- Shibuya Station
- Takanawa Gateway Station
Regular IC Cards: For Extended Stays
Suica (JR East)
- Cost: ¥2,000 (¥500 deposit + ¥1,500 balance)
- Validity: No expiration with regular use
- Refundable: ¥500 deposit returned
- Mobile: Apple Pay/Google Pay compatible
PASMO
- Cost: ¥2,000 (¥500 deposit + ¥1,500 balance)
- Validity: No expiration with regular use
- Refundable: ¥500 deposit returned
- Private Lines: Metro, Keio, Odakyu optimized
Suica vs PASMO: Which Should You Choose?
The Truth: It doesn’t matter much! Both work on virtually all trains, buses, and stores throughout Japan.
- • You arrive at JR stations (Narita Express, etc.)
- • You want mobile wallet integration
- • You prefer JR’s extensive network
- • You use Tokyo Metro frequently
- • You arrive via private railway lines
- • You want supporting local operators
Complete Usage Guide
Step 1: Tap to Enter
- Hold card flat against reader
- Wait for green light & beep
- Gates open automatically
- Keep card ready for exit
Step 2: Travel
- No need to select tickets
- Transfer freely between lines
- Fare calculated automatically
- No time restrictions
Step 3: Tap to Exit
- Tap same card on exit reader
- Fare deducted automatically
- Receipt printed if requested
- Balance shown on display
How to Recharge Your Card
At Ticket Machines:
- Find a ticket machine (usually black/multilingual)
- Insert your IC card in the slot
- Select recharge amount (¥1,000, ¥2,000, ¥3,000, etc.)
- Insert cash (machines don’t accept cards)
- Press confirmation button
- Retrieve your recharged card
Alternative Methods:
- Convenience Stores: 7-Eleven, Lawson, FamilyMart
- Mobile Apps: Suica app, Mobile PASMO
- Online: Link to credit cards (residents only)
- Station Counters: Service centers and offices
Beyond Transportation: Where Else to Use Your IC Card
Cultural Experiences: IC Card Adventures
The Spirit of Japanese “Omotenashi” (Hospitality)
IC cards embody Japan’s “omotenashi” spirit—seamless, thoughtful service that anticipates your needs. The 0.1-second transaction speed isn’t just technology; it’s respect for your time, reflecting Japanese values of efficiency and consideration.
Every tap represents centuries of Japanese craftsmanship philosophy: “shokunin” attention to detail, making the complex appear effortless.
Tea Ceremony & Cultural Immersion
Experience the meditative world of Japanese tea ceremony, where every gesture has meaning. Learn the “wa-kei-sei-jaku” principles (harmony, respect, purity, tranquility) while enjoying traditional sweets.
Authentic Kimono Experience
Transform into Edo-period elegance with professional kimono dressing. Learn about seasonal patterns, obi (sash) tying techniques, and proper walking etiquette in traditional districts.
Master Sushi Making
Learn the ancient art of sushi from master chefs. Understand rice preparation, fish selection, and the philosophy behind “shokunin” craftsmanship that makes each piece perfect.
Sumo Wrestling Culture
Witness Japan’s national sport up close. Learn about sumo rituals, ranking system, and enjoy chanko nabe (sumo hot pot) while understanding the spiritual aspects of this ancient sport.
Tokyo Skytree: Modern Japan Meets Tradition
Experience Tokyo’s iconic tower where cutting-edge technology meets traditional Japanese aesthetics. The tower’s design incorporates “sori,” the slight curve found in samurai swords and temple roofs.
- 360° panoramic views of Tokyo
- Mount Fuji visibility on clear days
- Traditional craft shops & modern galleries
- Perfect photo opportunities day & night
IC Card Access Guide
- From Asakusa: Tobu Skytree Line → Tokyo Skytree Station (¥160)
- From Tokyo Station: JR + Subway → Oshiage Station (¥200)
- From Shinjuku: JR + Metro → Oshiage (¥280)
- Walking Time: 2-3 minutes from either station
Troubleshooting & Expert Tips
Common Problems & Solutions
Card Won’t Read?
- • Remove card from wallet/phone case
- • Clean card surface gently
- • Hold flat against reader for 1 full second
- • Try different reader if available
Insufficient Balance?
- • Find nearest recharge machine
- • Minimum ¥10 needed for shortest journey
- • Can exit with negative balance (pay at counter)
- • Recharge at convenience stores if machines unavailable
Pro Tips for Smooth Travel
Money Management:
- • Keep ¥500+ balance for emergencies
- • Recharge ¥2,000 for 3-4 days of travel
- • Check balance at any station display
- • Use small purchases to use up remaining balance
Cultural Etiquette:
- • Have card ready before reaching gates
- • Don’t block other passengers while tapping
- • Keep receipt if given (some require for transfers)
- • Bow slightly to station staff if they help
Emergency Contacts & Support
JR East Support
PASMO Support
Tourist Hotline
Before You Leave Japan
Regular IC Cards (Suica/PASMO):
- Return at JR/Metro service centers
- Get ¥500 deposit back + remaining balance
- ¥220 handling fee deducted from balance
- Process takes 5-10 minutes
Welcome Suica:
- Keep as souvenir – no refund needed
- Expires 28 days after purchase
- Use remaining balance for shopping
- Perfect memento of your Japan trip
Beyond Tokyo: Regional IC Cards
While this guide focuses on Tokyo area cards, Japan’s IC card network is nationwide. Here’s a quick overview of major regional options:
ICOCA (Kansai)
Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe region. Same functionality as Suica/PASMO with universal compatibility.
SUGOCA (Kyushu)
Fukuoka, Kumamoto area. Perfect for southern Japan exploration with full IC compatibility.
Kitaca (Hokkaido)
Sapporo and Hokkaido region. Essential for northern adventures with nationwide usability.
All regional IC cards work nationwide for transportation and shopping, making travel seamless across Japan.