When traveling to Japan, we recommend using public transportation (planes, buses, trains, etc.) because it is the most punctual, cleanest, and quietest means of transportation in the world (except during rush hour). It’s extremely convenient to use public transportation by simply charging your IC card and passing through the ticket gates instead of buying a ticket each time, so we highly recommend getting an IC card. Today, we’ll be sharing how to get a transportation IC card.
✅ Available Cards for Travelers
- Welcome Suica – A special Suica card designed for foreign visitors.
- Valid for 28 days from purchase.
- No deposit required.
- Can be used for trains, subways, buses, convenience stores, and vending machines.
- Regular Suica – Also available to travelers at JR stations or ticket machines.
- PASMO – Usable on almost all trains and buses in the Tokyo area.
- (Note: The “PASMO Passport” tourist version has been discontinued.)
🇯🇵 Where Overseas Travelers Can Get Suica / PASMO Cards in Japan
🗺️ Main Purchase Locations
Overseas travelers can easily buy Suica or PASMO cards at major airports and city stations.
✈️ Airports
- Narita Airport – Available at JR East Travel Service Centers and ticket machines at Terminal 1 and Terminal 2/3 stations.
- Haneda Airport – Sold at the JR East Travel Service Center and automatic machines near Haneda Airport Terminal 3 Station (Tokyo Monorail).
- These counters have multilingual staff and English menus.
🚉 Major Stations in Tokyo
- Tokyo Station, Shinjuku, Shibuya, Ueno, Ikebukuro, and other major hubs have JR East Travel Service Centers and vending machines selling IC cards.
🧭 Map-like Description
- At the airport: ideal for immediate use after landing.
- At city stations: convenient if you missed buying one at the airport.
📌 Additional Notes
- Most counters provide English assistance.
- During late hours or busy holiday seasons, some vending machines may sell out or close temporarily.
- In other regions (e.g., Kansai), equivalent IC cards such as ICOCA are available and fully compatible.
💳 Difference Between Traveler IC Cards and Regular IC Cards
| Item | Traveler-oriented Card (e.g., Welcome Suica) | Regular Suica / PASMO |
|---|---|---|
| Target Users | Short-term visitors (tourists or business travelers) | Residents / long-term users |
| Deposit (Security Fee) | Usually no deposit required (Welcome Suica requires none) | Requires a ¥500 refundable deposit |
| Validity Period | 28 days from the date of purchase | No expiration (valid indefinitely with usage) |
| Top-Up / Recharge | Cash recharge available at machines and stores | Cash or credit-linked auto-charge available |
| Refunds | No refund for remaining balance (non-refundable) | Refundable for both balance and deposit at service counters |
| Usage Scope | Works for trains, subways, buses, convenience stores, and vending machines nationwide | Same scope ＋ can be linked to commuter passes or mobile apps |
| Pros / Cons | Easy to buy & use immediately; ideal for short stays — but limited validity and no refunds | More flexible for residents, but requires deposit and setup |
🌟 Tips for Travelers
- Buying at the airport upon arrival is easiest — you can use it immediately for trains or buses.
- If you’re staying less than a month, Welcome Suica (28-day validity) is sufficient.
- Try to use up your balance before leaving Japan, since refunds are unavailable.
- You can top up at convenience stores and vending machines almost anywhere.
- If you prefer a smartphone solution, check first whether your device supports Mobile Suica or Mobile PASMO (some overseas models do not).
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