IC Card Guide · Updated June 2026
Japan IC Card Guide:
Suica, Pasmo, Welcome Suica
& Pasmo Passport
Four cards. One function. Here's which to get, what the deposit is, whether you'll get a refund, and the fastest way to start tapping through Japan's ticket gates.
TripWorth answer: For most tourists, get Welcome Suica at the airport (no deposit) or add Mobile Suica to Apple/Google Pay before you land. Both work everywhere.
All 4 Cards Compared
For tourists arriving in Japan in 2026.
| Card | Deposit | Refundable? | Where to Buy | Expires? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Welcome Suica Tourist-only Suica |
None ✓ | No ✗ | Haneda, Narita, JR East offices | 28 days |
| Pasmo Passport Tourist-only Pasmo |
None ✓ | Balance only (−¥220) | Haneda, Narita Pasmo offices | 28 days |
| Suica (regular) JR East IC card |
¥500 | Yes — full (−¥220) | Any JR East ticket machine | 10 years inactive |
| Pasmo (regular) Private rail IC card |
¥500 | Yes — full (−¥220) | Toei/Metro ticket machines | 10 years inactive |
| Mobile Suica Apple Pay / Google Pay |
None ✓ | Yes — via app | Suica app or Wallet before arrival | No expiry |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an IC card in Japan and do I need one?
An IC card is a rechargeable tap-to-ride card that works on virtually every train, subway, and bus in Japan. You load money onto it, tap in and out at gates, and the correct fare is deducted automatically — no paper tickets, no fumbling for exact change.
Do you need one? Yes, for any trip longer than a day or two. Paper tickets require knowing the exact fare for each ride; IC cards let you hop on and off without thinking. They also work at 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, Lawson, and most vending machines.
Can I use Suica or Pasmo on the Shinkansen?
No — IC cards do not cover Shinkansen fares. Suica and Pasmo work on local JR trains, subways, and buses within cities. For Shinkansen travel, you need either a reserved ticket (purchased at a ticket machine or JR office), a JR Pass, or the EX-IC service if you have a Japanese credit card. This is a common tourist mistake — do not expect to tap through Shinkansen gates with your IC card.
Should I get Welcome Suica or Mobile Suica?
Mobile Suica is better for most travelers who use an iPhone or Android. There is no physical card to lose, no deposit, no expiry, and you can top up instantly from your phone. You can set it up before you leave home.
Welcome Suica is better if you prefer a physical card, do not want to set up a Suica app, or are giving a card to someone else (e.g., a child). Pick it up at the airport, load ¥5,000–¥10,000, and you are ready to go.
How much should I load onto my IC card?
A typical Tokyo subway ride costs ¥170–¥320. For a 7-day stay with 6 train trips per day, budget roughly ¥15,000–¥20,000 in IC card balance. You can top up at any station ticket machine — there is no penalty for running low.
Tip: Load slightly more than you expect to use. If you have leftover balance on Welcome Suica (non-refundable), spend it at a convenience store before leaving Japan.
Also planning Shinkansen rides?
IC cards don't cover Shinkansen. Check whether the JR Pass or individual tickets are cheaper for your itinerary.