A Guide to Using the Suica Card: Tokyo's no. 1 IC Card

If you’re traveling to Tokyo and want a quick, easy way to pay for trains, buses, and small purchases, this comprehensive guide to the Suica card will show you how to buy, recharge, and use it. We’ll also compare it to alternatives and share insider tips to make your trip easier.

To find out more about the selection of different IC cards available in Japan, check out our article, "A Guide to Japan's Prepaid IC Cards." Otherwise, check out our article about the various payment options in Japan.

1. What Is a Suica Card and Why You Need It for Travel in Tokyo?

• Suica is an IC card (digital cash card) that is used various paid services in East Japan (the greater Tokyo area).
• It allows cashless digital payments and can easily be topped up with more money.
• Adding more money (recharging your Suica Card) can be done at places where Suica is accepted around the Greater Tokyo area.
• Suica card for public transport and buying items at various convenient stores.
  
  

2. How to Get a Suica Card (Physical Cards vs. Welcome Suica)

Physical Suica cards will be available for purchase by late 2024. Due to a semiconductor shortage in 2023, production of Suica physical IC cards stopped. Until then the "Welcome Suica" card is available to tourists when arriving at Narita or Haneda airports.

3. Where to Buy a Suica Card in Tokyo (Airports, Stations, and Apps)

You can only buy a Suica card from JR-East major stations or JR-East Travel Service Centers. The service centers are located in both Narita Airport and Haneda Airport. Both airports are used by tourists flying into the greater Tokyo area.

1. Terminal 1 Station
2. Terminal 2・3 Station

1. Terminal 2 (Tokyo Monorail) station
2. Terminal 3 (Tokyo Monorail) station

• Access the digital versions of Suica by activating the Transit Card feature.
• On Apple iPhones this can be found in the iPhone Wallet app. On Android phones it is the E-Money service in Google Wallet.
• To use the mobile versions of Suica, change your phone's regional settings to Japan.
• Install the application and link it with your credit card. Then, you can recharge your Mobile Suica anytime, anywhere.
• The app gives you the option to either buy a new card or import an existing one using your phone's camera.
• Just tap your phone against the card reader as you pass through the train station turnstiles. Your phone must be powered on, but it doesn't require unlocking or a WiFi connection.

4. How to Recharge Your Suica Card (Step-by-Step)

Suica cards can be recharged at various locations where the Suica logo and associated IC card logos are displayed. Locations include:

• most train station ticket machines,
• convenience stores,
• 7/11 ATM machines.

Look for the Suica recharge machines and follow the instructions on the screen. Just choose the recharge amount shown on the screen.

5. How Can I Recharge My Suica Card?

• At a JR station, locate the ticket machine with the Suica logo.
• Insert your Suica Card in the slot. It should say "insert card."
• Select 'Recharge Suica Card' on the screen.
• The screen will present an option of amounts in Japanese yen to put on your card.
• Choose the desired balance and complete payment.
• DONE!
  

6. How to Use Your Suica Card on Tokyo Trains and Buses

• To use the Suica card for public transportation, simply tap the card on the designated card reader at the entrance and exit gates.
• The fare will be automatically deducted from the balance on your card. If you are riding a bus, the IC card reader is at the front of the bus, next to the driver.

It is important to ensure that you have enough credit on the card to cover your fare before boarding.

7. Do I Need a Separate Suica Card for Each Traveler?

Yes, you need a separate Suica Card for each traveller. When using your Suica card on public transport, you CANNOT share your Suica card with other people. When using for travel, passengers MUST have one card per person.

No, your child under six years of age does not need a Suica Card. In Japan, two children, between the ages of 1 to 5 years old, can travel for free while accompanied by one adult

8. Suica Card Balance Limits: How Much to Load and Maximum Amounts

• It's not about how much money you should put on the Suica card. It is about how much you CAN put on a Suica card.
• The Suica card is limited to the maximum balance of ￥20,000 yen (about $136 USD).

The card was originally designed by Japan Rail-East to use on public transport. It was not intend for use with other purchases. However, over time use for the card has changed, but JR-East has yet to increase the cash limit.

9. ICOCA vs. Suica: The Kansai Region’s Alternative to Tokyo’s IC Card

Tourists can purchase the ICOCA Card if you are arriving in Japan via the Kansai Airport, near Osaka. ICOCA is the alternative to Suica for Western Japan.

10. Pros and Cons of Using a Suica Card in Japan (Is It Worth It?)

When it comes to making payments in Japan, both the Suica Card advantages and disadvantages. Understanding these can help individuals make an informed decision on which payment method to use in different scenarios.

• Convenience: The card allows for quick and contactless payments.
• Widely Accepted: Suica accepted by many businesses. This includes convenience stores, vending machines, and public transportation.
• Rechargeable: Suica can be easily recharged, making it easy to manage your spending.

• Widely Accepted Doesn't Mean Everywhere: There are still some places that don't accept IC cards. It is always advisable to carry a small amount of cash as a backup.
• Refunds: Refunds for unused credit on Suica Cards are especially for tourists. It is important to plan your spending accordingly.
  

11. Beyond Transit: Using Your Suica Card for Shopping and Dining

• In addition to public transportation, Suica can also be used for shopping and dining in Japan.
• Many convenience stores, supermarkets, and retailers accept Suica Card payments. Simply look for the Suica logo or ask the cashier if card payments are accepted.
• For dining establishments, you may have to ask the staff in advance if you can use a Suica Card for payment. This is especially true for smaller local restaurants.
  
  

12. Can You Use ATMs to Top Up Your Suica Card in Japan?

You can use some convenience store ATMs to top up money on your Suica card. However, you CANNOT withdraw that money as cash. You can only use that money by charging a purchase to your Suica card.

13. Can I Get Money Back From My Suica Card?

No, you cannot get the balance on your card refunded. Once your cash is transferred to your Suica card, it stays there until you spend it.

I have seen many people on Japan tourist forums complain that they still have money remaining on the card at the end of their trip.

Remember though, that you can use your Suica card to buy stuff at the convenience store. Be sure to use up the last of your balance before you leave Japan!

14. Why Tourists Should Get a Suica Card

For tourists visiting Japan, I do recommend using a Suica card. It simplifies the payment process, which is handy when you don't speak Japanese.

It is a smoother and hassle-free process to get on and off the many Tokyo trains you will take. The Suica Card can also be used to access lockers at train stations, making it easy to store luggage or other belongings while exploring.

15. YouTube Video on Suica Card Use in Japan

Here is a short video if you need further visual confirmation on how the Suica card work while on your Japan trip.

16. FAQ

1. Can I Buy a Suica Card at Narita Airport?
Yes, you can purchase a Suica card at Narita Airport’s JR-East Travel Service Centers and ticket machines. Look for the Suica logo or ask the staff for guidance. This is one of the easiest ways for first-time visitors to get their Suica card in Tokyo.

2. How Do I Top Up (Recharge) My Suica Card Balance?
You can recharge your Suica card at JR station ticket machines, convenience stores (like 7-Eleven), and select ATMs. Simply follow the on-screen instructions, choose your desired amount, and insert cash or use a linked payment method.

3. Can I Use My Suica Card on All Tokyo Trains and Buses?
Suica is widely accepted on most Tokyo trains and buses, including JR lines, subways, and many private railways. Just tap your Suica card at the ticket gates or the bus reader. Check for the Suica logo if you’re unsure.

4. Is There a Maximum Suica Card Balance?
Yes. The Suica card has a maximum balance of ¥20,000. Be mindful of this limit when adding funds, especially if you plan to use the card frequently for trains, buses, and small purchases in Tokyo.

5. Can I Use Suica for Shopping and Dining in Japan?
Absolutely. Many convenience stores, vending machines, and even some restaurants in Tokyo and other cities accept Suica as a form of payment. Just look for the Suica or IC card logo at the payment counter.

6. What Happens if I Have Money Left on My Suica Card at the End of My Trip?
Suica card balances are generally not refundable, so it’s best to use any remaining funds before leaving Japan. Consider spending it at an airport convenience store or vending machine before your departure.

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