One card. Trains, buses, subways, convenience stores, vending machines — IC cards are the single most useful thing you can have in Japan. This guide explains which one to get, how to use it, and what to do when you leave.
💳 What Is an IC Card and Why Do You Need One?
An IC card is a rechargeable contactless smart card used across Japan's public transport network. Load it once at any station machine and tap in and out everywhere — no need to buy individual tickets.
- ✅ Works on all trains, subways, and buses nationwide
- ✅ Accepted at convenience stores (7-Eleven, FamilyMart, Lawson)
- ✅ Usable at vending machines, lockers, and taxis
- ✅ Suica works with iPhone and Apple Watch via Wallet
- ✅ No language barrier — tap in, tap out, done
📶 You'll need internet to top up via app — sort your eSIM first
Sakura Mobile gives you reliable data from the moment you land. English support, activate before departure.
🆚 Suica vs Pasmo vs ICOCA — Which Should You Get?
All three work across Japan. The difference is where you buy them and which apps they support.
| Card | Where to Buy | iPhone Wallet | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Suica | Narita / Haneda / Tokyo JR stations | ✅ Yes | Tokyo arrivals · app top-up |
| Pasmo | Tokyo Metro stations | ✅ Yes | Tokyo subway focus |
| ICOCA | Kansai Airport / JR West stations | ❌ Physical only | Osaka / Kyoto arrivals |
👉 Our pick: Suica. Works everywhere, supports iPhone Wallet, and can be topped up remotely via the Suica app.
Mobile Suica — No Physical Card Needed
iPhone users can add Suica directly to Apple Wallet before landing in Japan. Top up with a foreign credit card, tap your phone at the gate. No queues, no card to lose.
🛒 How to Buy, Top Up & Refund
Buying at the Station
Look for green ticket machines at JR stations. Select English, choose "Suica / IC Card", insert ¥2,000 minimum (¥500 deposit included). Top up at any machine nationwide.
Topping Up
At any ticket machine → select "Charge" → insert cash. Alternatively, use the Suica app with a Mastercard or Visa for contactless top-up.
Refunding on Departure
Return your card at any JR East ticket office. You'll receive your remaining balance minus a ¥220 handling fee, plus the ¥500 deposit back.
🗾 Where IC Cards Work in Japan
| Category | Examples | Accepted? |
|---|---|---|
| Trains & Subways | JR, Tokyo Metro, Osaka Metro | ✅ All major lines |
| Buses | City buses, highway buses | ✅ Most routes |
| Convenience Stores | 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, Lawson | ✅ All chains |
| Vending Machines | Drinks, snacks, coffee | ✅ Most machines |
| Coin Lockers | Station lockers | ✅ Major stations |
| Taxis | Most major taxi companies | ✅ Most taxis |
📖 Related Guide
Japan Transportation Guide 2026 — JR Pass, IC Cards & Airports →
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Can I use my IC card outside Tokyo?
Yes. Suica, Pasmo, and ICOCA are all accepted on trains, buses, and convenience stores nationwide. You can buy it in Tokyo and use it in Osaka without any issues.
Q. Can I top up with a foreign credit card?
At station machines, cash only. Via the Suica app on iPhone, you can top up with Visa or Mastercard registered to Apple Pay.
Q. Do I need an IC card if I have a JR Pass?
Yes. The JR Pass only covers JR lines. Subways, private railways, and buses require an IC card. You'll need both for a comfortable trip.
Q. How much should I load on my IC card?
For a 7-day trip with daily train use, ¥5,000–¥8,000 is a comfortable starting balance. You can always top up at any station machine.
