When you visit Japan for the first time, one of the first things you’ll notice is how different the public transportation system is from what you're used to. Instead of paying a flat rate, fares are calculated based on the distance traveled—making ticketing a bit confusing at first.
To simplify things, Japan offers an easy and efficient solution: IC Cards. These rechargeable contactless cards are accepted all over the country—not just for subways, trains, and buses, but also for making everyday purchases at convenience stores, vending machines and more.
For travelers, the simplest solution is to order a Welcome Suica for 13 € (shipping included). If you use an iPhone, you can also opt for a virtual IC Card.
Important Update (As of Early 2025): Out of Stock
Our partner, Japan Experience, is currently out of stock of the Welcome Suica. Unfortunately, there’s no alternative for ordering a card in France at the moment. You’ll need to buy one at the airport upon arrival in Japan or choose the virtual version.
What is an IC Card ?
IC Cards (short for Integrated Circuit Cards) are prepaid, contactless cards used daily by millions of Japanese commuters and shoppers. They replace traditional train tickets and can also be used to pay at a wide range of stores.
There are several IC Card types, each issued by different regional rail companies. The main ones include:
- Suica: The most well-known card, issued by JR East (Tokyo area)
- PASMO: Also used in the Tokyo area
- ICOCA: Common in Osaka and western Japan (JR West)
No matter which one you use, all IC Cards are interoperable: a Suica bought in Tokyo will work just fine on the subway in Kyoto or on a bus in Fukuoka.
Can You Buy an IC Card Before Arriving in Japan?
Welcome Suica: the best option for tourists
The Welcome Suica is a special version of the Suica card made specifically for international visitors.
- No deposit required: Unlike regular Suica or PASMO cards, which require a 500 yen deposit
- Valid for 28 days from first use
- Initial charge: Must be loaded with at least 1,000 or 2,000 yen upon purchase
- No refunds for unused balance at the end of your trip
Where to buy an IC Card ?
Welcome Suica cards are only sold at specific locations listed on the JR East website, mainly:
- International airports: Narita, Haneda (Tokyo), and Kansai (Osaka)
- Major JR stations: Tokyo, Shinjuku, Ueno, Shin-Osaka
- Designated counters or ticket machines
Due to long lines at airports and stations, we highly recommend ordering your Welcome Suica in advance for 13 €, shipping included.
How to use an IC Card on public transit?
This JR East video offers a great overview of how IC Cards work—and the process is nearly identical across all modes of transport.
On Trains and Subways
- Enter: Tap your card on the gate’s reader. A beep confirms the tap.
- Exit: Tap again at the gate. The exact fare is automatically deducted, and your remaining balance is displayed.
If your balance is too low, the gate won’t open. You'll need to top up your card at a machine using only cash.
On Buses and Trams
- Boarding: Enter through the rear door and tap your card.
- Exiting: Tap the reader near the driver. Make sure your card has enough credit.
In cities like Hiroshima and Kumamoto, you board from the front and pay when getting off. Always watch what locals do.
- We also have a full article on how to use local buses in Japan.
Can you use an IC Card for shopping?
Yes and it’s one of the most convenient features for tourists! You can use your IC Card to make everyday purchases like:
| Place | Examples |
|---|---|
| Convenience stores (Konbini) | 7-Eleven, Lawson, FamilyMart |
| Fast food | McDonald’s, Mos Burger |
| Cafés | Tully’s, Starbucks |
| Retail stores | Don Quijote, Bic Camera, Loft |
| Vending machines | In stations and on the street |
How to pay with an IC Card?
Just tap your card on the payment terminal (usually marked with an “IC” logo) and the amount will be deducted instantly. At convenience stores, either show your card to the cashier or select IC payment on the self-checkout screen.
How to recharge an IC Card?
Where to recharge?
- Automatic machines in subway and train stations
- Ticket counters
- Some convenience stores
The maximum amount allowed is 20 000 yen (~130 €)
Steps to recharge
- Find a machine with the IC Card logo (usually labeled in English)
- Place or insert your card, depending on the machine
- Select an amount (typically in 1,000 yen increments)
- Insert cash (credit cards are not accepted)
- Take your recharged card
IC Card Limitations
Not valid on Shinkansen (Bullet train)
You can’t use an IC Card directly for Shinkansen travel. You’ll need to buy a separate ticket at a machine, counter, or via the mobile app.
Compatibility issues between train companies
IC Cards can only be used within one train company per journey. This usually only affects long-distance routes or where company borders overlap.
For example, if you're traveling from Tokyo to Kyoto, you’ll cross from JR East to JR West—even if you stay on the same train line. In rare cases like this, the card may not work when exiting, and you’ll need help from a station attendant to resolve the issue.
Not always usable in rural areas
In some remote regions (like Kyûshû or Shikoku), you might be able to tap in when boarding, but find that your destination station doesn't support IC Cards.
When that happens, your card will lock and stop working for payments. You’ll need to visit a major station to have it reset.
Virtual IC Cards on your phone?
Yes but there are some conditions
- iPhone: Supported on iPhone 8 or newer, and Apple Watch Series 3+
- Android: Only works on phones sold in Japan
How to Add an IC Card on iPhone
Start by switching your iPhone's region to Japan : this is required as of iOS 18.1.
Rather than providing detailed instructions, here are links to Apple’s official pages:
How to recharge a virtual IC Card?
- Directly in Apple Wallet with a registered credit card
- At some kiosks or convenience stores
Note: Some foreign credit cards may not work for recharging.
Other important notes
- You can transfer a physical IC Card to your Apple Wallet, but once transferred, the physical card becomes unusable
- You don’t need to download any special IC Card apps
- IC Card recharge systems are paused nightly from midnight to 5 AM