If you’re visiting Japan, one of the best ways to streamline your travels is by using an IC card. These rechargeable smart cards make getting around Japan effortless—you can use them on trains, buses, subways, vending machines, and even in convenience stores. But with multiple IC cards available, which one should you get? In this guide, we’ll break down the best options for foreign travelers: Suica, Welcome Suica, and ICOCA. We’ll also cover where to buy them, which express trains require extra tickets, and essential tips for using IC cards in Japan.
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What Are IC Cards?
IC (Integrated Circuit) cards function like rechargeable debit cards for public transportation and small purchases. Instead of buying individual tickets for every train ride, you simply tap your card at the ticket gate, and the fare is automatically deducted. These cards are issued by different railway companies but can be used interchangeably across most of Japan.
- Suica: Issued by JR East (Tokyo region)
- Welcome Suica: A special version of Suica for tourists
- ICOCA: Issued by JR West (Kansai region, including Kyoto and Osaka)
Where You Can Use IC Cards
- Trains, Subways, and Buses: Across most major cities in Japan
- Vending Machines: Many accept IC card payments
- Convenience Stores: 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, Lawson, and more
- Station Kiosks & Coin Lockers: Great for quick purchases or storing luggage
- Some Shops, Cafes & Taxis: Many accept IC cards for payment
Note: While IC cards are widely accepted, they cannot be used for reserved express trains or Shinkansen without an additional ticket.
Suica Card (Recommended for Tokyo Arrivals)
Best for: Tourists and frequent travelers planning to return to Japan.
- Deposit Required: 500 yen (refundable when you return the card in Tokyo)
- Validity: 10 years from last use
- Max Balance: 20,000 yen
- Refunds Available? Yes, at JR East stations
Where to Buy a Suica Card
- JR East Travel Service Centers (Tokyo Station, Narita Airport, Haneda Airport, Ueno, Shinjuku, etc.)
- Suica vending machines at JR stations
Important: Due to past shortages of Suica cards, check availability before traveling.
Welcome Suica (Best for Short-Term Visitors)
Best for: Tourists staying in Japan for less than 28 days who don’t need refunds.
- Deposit Required: None
- Validity: 28 days from purchase
- Refunds Available? No, so use up your balance before leaving
Where to Buy a Welcome Suica
- JR East Travel Service Centers at major stations:
- Narita Airport Terminals 1, 2, and 3
- Haneda Airport Terminal 3
- Tokyo Station, Ueno, Shinjuku, Shibuya, Ikebukuro, etc.
ICOCA Card (Best for Kansai Arrivals)
Best for: Tourists starting their trip in Kyoto, Osaka, or Kansai region.
- Deposit Required: 500 yen (refundable, but with a 220 yen handling fee)
- Validity: 10 years from last use
- Refunds Available? Yes, at JR West stations (minus a handling fee)
Where to Buy an ICOCA Card
- JR West stations (Kyoto, Osaka, Kansai Airport, Shin-Osaka, Namba, etc.)
- ICOCA vending machines at major stations
Which IC Card Should You Buy?
| Card Type | Best For | Deposit? | Refunds? | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Suica | Arrivals in Tokyo area | 500 yen | Yes | 10 years |
| Welcome Suica | Tourists staying under 28 days | No | No | 28 days |
| ICOCA | Arrivals in Kansai area | 500 yen | Yes, minus 220 yen | 10 years |
Using IC Cards for Express Trains & Shinkansen
While IC cards are great for local transport, you cannot use them for certain express services without purchasing additional tickets.
Popular Trains Requiring Extra Tickets:
- Tokyo: Narita Express; Reserved Seating trains (N’EX, Skyliner, Romancecar); JR, Tobu, Odakyu, and Keisei Limited Express Trains (NOT Keikyu, such as Airport Express to Haneda)
- Kyoto: Haruka Express (to Kansai Airport); JR Limited Express Trains
- Osaka: Limited Express Trains (Haruka, Thunderbird)
For these trains, buy an express ticket at vending machines or ticket counters before boarding.
If you mistakenly get on one of these trains, you will probably be asked by a conductor if you have a ticket. If you don’t, you will usually be able to buy it from him or her on the train. However, please don’t do this intentionally as there is always a chance you will need to get off.
Digital Suica for iPhone Users
If you have an iPhone, you can add Suica to Apple Wallet instead of using a physical card.
How to Add Suica to Apple Wallet
- Open Apple Wallet
- Tap “+” and select “Transit Card”
- Choose “Suica” and load money using a credit card
Important: Digital Suica cannot be refunded. Ensure your phone stays charged, as you won’t be able to tap if your phone dies.
What to Do If You Lose Your IC Card
- Physical Suica/ICOCA: Lost cards are non-refundable unless registered.
- Welcome Suica: Cannot be reissued or refunded.
- Digital Suica: Can be restored via iCloud backup.
Tip: Take a photo of your IC card number when you buy it. This can help if you lose it.
Final Tips for Using IC Cards in Japan
- Recharging: Load cash at train station machines or 7-Eleven ATMs. Credit card recharge is not available for Suica/ICOCA.
- Child IC Cards: Discounted versions exist but require a passport to purchase.
- Check the IC card logo: If unsure, look for the IC card logo before tapping.
IC cards are an essential travel tool in Japan, making your trip smoother and more efficient. Whether you choose Suica, Welcome Suica, or ICOCA, having one will save you time and hassle.
If you found this guide helpful, be sure to check out PiQtour Japan on YouTube for more travel tips and detailed walkthroughs of Japan’s transportation system!