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

This article discusses the use of the Suica card, a prepaid IC card (digital cash card) available in the eastern part of Japan. 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?

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 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. Can I Use One Suica Card for Two People?

No, you cannot. 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.

3. How Much Money Should You Put on a Suica Card?

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.

4. Access to Suica Cards in 2024

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. Unitl then the "Welcome Suica" card is available to tourists when arriving at Narita or Haneda airports.

5. Where Can I Purchase a Suica Card?

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.

Narita Airport Locations

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

4.2. Haneda Airport Locations

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

The Suica Mobile App

• 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.

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.

6. The Kansai Alternative to Suica: ICOCA

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.

7. Suica Card: Pros and Cons

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.

8. How to Use Suica on Tokyo Trains

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 sufficient credit on the card to cover your fare before boarding.

9. Using 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.

10. Suica Card and ATM Access 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.

11. 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!

12. How Does Suica Help Tourists in Japan?

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.

12. 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.

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