During your stay in Japan, you’ll frequently use public transportation. However, the way it operates is a bit different from what you might be used to in France. Instead of a fixed fare, the cost of a trip is based on the distance traveled, which can make managing money a little tricky.
Fortunately, Japan offers a simple and practical solution: IC Cards. These prepaid, contactless cards not only simplify getting around on public transit but also allow you to make purchases at many stores, especially at konbini (convenience stores).
For tourists, the easiest option is to order a Welcome SUICA for 13 €, including shipping.
14/10/2024: out of stock
Our partner, Japan Experience, is unfortunately out of stock of Welcome Suica. We have no other solution to offer you for ordering a card in Europe. You will need to purchase it at the airport upon arriving in Japan.
What is an IC Card and How Does it Work?
IC Cards are contactless cards used to pay for train, metro, or bus rides, as well as purchases at vending machines, konbini, and most other shops.
You can recharge these cards with cash at automatic kiosks located in every metro and train station, which makes payment management much easier. You won't need to buy individual tickets or handle cash. This payment system was introduced in the 2000s and works throughout Japan.
The Welcome Suica
The best option for tourists is the Welcome Suica, managed by JR East and specifically designed for foreign visitors. It’s free, but you’ll need to load it with an initial amount (1,000 or 2,000 yen) when you purchase it. Keep in mind that any remaining balance on the card at the end of your trip is non-refundable.
You can buy the Welcome Suica at international airports like Haneda or Narita, and at major JR stations in Tokyo. However, sales locations are limited to a few specific places listed on the JR East website.
To make your trip preparation easier, we recommend ordering a Welcome Suica from Europe for 13 €, including shipping.
Using an IC Card: How It Works in Practice
This video on the JR East website shows how an IC Card works, and the process is the same across all modes of transport.
On Public Transportation
- Entering a station: When you arrive at a metro or train station, simply place the card on the reader at the access gate. A beep and a light will indicate that your card has been read correctly, allowing you to pass through.
- Exiting the station: When leaving, you scan the card again on the reader. The fare for your trip is automatically deducted from the card’s balance, and the remaining amount is displayed on the screen. If your balance is too low, the gate will close, and a red light will flash. In this case, you’ll need to recharge your card at a kiosk.
- On buses: When boarding a bus (from the rear in Japan), scan your card on the reader. Before getting off, scan the card again on the reader near the driver to pay the exact fare.
In Stores
IC Cards aren’t just for transportation—you can also use them in many stores, including konbini like 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, or Lawson. Just show the card to the cashier, then place it on the payment terminal to be charged the exact amount of your purchase. This method is especially useful for everyday small transactions.
How to Recharge an IC Card
You can recharge IC Cards at kiosks available in all metro and train stations. These machines only accept cash.
- Maximum balance: You can load up to 20,000 yen (~€150) on an IC Card.
Using the Kiosk
Start by selecting the “IC Card” option on the screen, then insert or place your card on the reader. The location for placing your card isn’t always obvious, so look for the "IC" logo on the machine. (Depending on the kiosk model, you either insert the card into the reader or place it on the IC logo.) Next, choose the amount you want to add and insert the cash. Once the transaction is complete, the machine will return your card with the new balance.
Limitations of IC Cards
Although IC Cards are incredibly convenient, there are a few limitations to be aware of:
-
Geographic restrictions: IC Cards are generally only usable in the region of their issuing operator. This mostly applies to long-distance travel. For example, if you’re traveling from Tokyo to Kyoto, even though the systems are compatible, you’ll need to buy a specific ticket. If you mistakenly use your IC Card, you’ll need to visit the station’s ticket counter to unlock it.
-
Shinkansen: IC Cards cannot be used directly for Shinkansen tickets. You must buy a ticket at the counter, where you can pay with your IC Card.
-
Changing companies: In rare cases, if your journey involves multiple transportation companies, like JR and a private operator, the card may not work for the entire trip. In this situation, you’ll need to purchase separate tickets.