Suica & PASMO for Visitors: A Simple Guide
This guide is part of our Money in Japan overview and explains how Suica and PASMO work for travelers.
Quick overview:
Suica and PASMO are rechargeable IC cards that make
transportation and small payments in Japan fast and easy.
You simply tap the card to ride trains or pay at stores.
Many visitors use Suica or PASMO as their main day-to-day payment tool. This guide explains how to get one, where it works, and what to watch out for, without technical details.
1) How to Get Suica or PASMO
Travelers have two main options:
-
Mobile Suica / PASMO
Available on iPhone and some Android devices.
You can add the card to your phone and recharge it by credit card. No deposit is required. -
Physical cards (Suica / PASMO / Welcome Suica)
Available at airports and major stations.
Welcome Suica is designed for short stays and does not require a deposit, but unused balances are not refundable.
Both options work the same way when paying.
2) Where Suica & PASMO Work
Suica and PASMO are accepted in many everyday situations:
- Trains, subways, and buses across most of Japan
- Convenience stores and vending machines
- Coin lockers and many small shops
- Any place showing the Suica or PASMO logo
They are especially useful for short trips and daily commuting.
3) Fares and Children’s Cards
- Children’s IC cards: Available at station counters with a passport. Fares are about half the adult price.
- Mobile IC cards: Currently support adult fares only.
For families, physical children’s cards are usually the best option.
4) Common Problems and Simple Fixes
- Card does not read: Keep only one IC card near the reader.
- Insufficient balance: Recharge at a ticket machine, convenience store, or inside the mobile app.
These issues are minor and easy to fix on the spot.
5) Suica & PASMO vs Cash and Credit Cards
IC cards are not a replacement for cash or credit cards, but they reduce how much cash you need day-to-day.
- Best for transport and small purchases
- Not suitable for hotels or large shopping
To understand how they fit into your overall payment plan, see:
Cash or Card in Japan: A Simple Guide for Travelers
6) How Much Balance Should You Keep?
Most travelers are comfortable with:
- ¥2,000–¥5,000 for daily city travel
- Recharging as needed every few days
You do not need to load a large amount at once.
Related Guides
To better understand payments and daily travel in Japan, these guides may also be helpful:
- ATM Withdrawal in Japan: What Travelers Need to Know
- How Much Cash Do You Need for a Japan Trip?
- Money in Japan: A Simple Guide for Travelers
This guide explains general IC card usage for travelers.
Availability and supported features may vary by device and location.
Last updated: 2026-01-29
