Navigate Tokyo like a local
SUICA is a rechargeable IC card that makes traveling around Tokyo incredibly convenient. Simply tap your card on the reader at station gates and it automatically deducts the fare. No need to buy individual tickets or worry about calculating fares!
Works on JR, subway, and most buses throughout Tokyo and beyond
Pay at convenience stores, vending machines, and many restaurants
No more fumbling with tickets. Just tap and go!
For: Foreign visitors
Where: Haneda & Narita airports, major JR stations
Cost: ¥2,000 (¥1,500 usable + ¥500 deposit)
Validity: 28 days from purchase
Non-personalized card perfect for short stays. No refund hassle. Look for "Welcome SUICA" signs at airports.
For: Anyone
Where: JR ticket machines and counters
Cost: ¥1,000-10,000 (includes ¥500 deposit)
Validity: 10 years
Standard card with deposit refund. You get the deposit back minus ¥220 handling fee when you return it.
Look for machines with "IC Card" or "SUICA" labels. Blue machines are JR East.
Tap the language button in the corner to change to English.
Select "Purchase New SUICA" or "Welcome SUICA" (recommended for tourists).
Select amount (¥2,000 recommended), pay with cash, and take your card. Ready to use!
Digital Option: iPhone and Apple Watch users can add SUICA directly to Apple Pay (Wallet app). Android users can use Mobile SUICA app. However, physical cards are often easier for first-time visitors.
Where: Ticket machines, convenience stores (7-11, Lawson, FamilyMart)
How: Insert card, select "Charge", insert cash.
How much? Start with ¥2,000-3,000. Average daily cost is ¥500-1,500.
Alternative: PASMO Card
PASMO is another IC card that works exactly like SUICA. They are interchangeable. If SUICA machines are busy, buying a PASMO at Tokyo Metro stations is perfectly fine!
