How to Use IC Cards in Tokyo

If you're visiting Tokyo, an IC card is one of the first things you should get. IC cards make it easy to tap in and out of train stations, ride buses, and pay for small purchases without buying individual tickets.

Popular IC cards include:

• Suica

• Pasmo

• Welcome Suica

You can use IC cards on most trains, subways, and buses throughout Tokyo and many other regions in Japan. They can also be used at convenience stores, vending machines, lockers, and some restaurants.

Digital IC Cards

If you have an iPhone, you can add a Suica or PASMO directly to your Apple Wallet before arriving in Japan. This is my preferred option because you can reload it instantly using Apple Pay and avoid carrying an extra card.

Where to Buy or Reload

• Airport Train Stations (Narita and Haneda)

• Major train stations

• Ticket machines displaying the IC card logo

• Convenience stores

Good to Know

• IC cards are rechargeable but not linked to your identity

• Most ticket machines offer English language support

• You do not need separate tickets when using an IC card

• Be sure to tap in and tap out at station gates

Keep at least ¥1,000–¥2,000 loaded on your card to avoid delays

Travel Tip: If you're planning day trips to places like Yokohama, Kamakura, Enoshima, Kawagoe, or Mount Takao, your IC card will work seamlessly across multiple train companies.