For travelers exploring Japan, the Suica card is the key to getting around city stress-free. In Tokyo and beyond, this rechargeable smart card is the top choice for trains, buses, and everyday purchases—all with a simple tap.
This guide covers everything you need to know: where to buy, how to use, and the latest updates. Say goodbye to ticket machines—unlock Japan like a local with a Suica card.
What Is a Suica Card?
Source: Wikipedia
Suica card is a rechargeable smart card used for seamless travel across Japan's public transportation network. Issued by JR East, it works on most trains, subways, and buses in major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto. Suica card allows users to pass station gates or checkout counters by simply tapping on and tapping off. Unlike traditional tickets, you no longer need to calculate fares for each ride—the system just automatically calculates before you exit. Beyond transit, Suica card is also an electronic wallet for small-amount deals, such as purchases at convenience stores, vending machines, and select retailers.
109616 booked
Welcome Suica Card: What Tourists Need Know
Source: JR East Official Site
Welcome Suica is a special designed suica card that designed specifically for short-term visitors. You can tell the difference from regular suica card simply by following features:
Feature | Welcome Suica | Regular Suica |
Validity Period | 28 days | 10 years |
Design | Green, with a cartoon penguin | Red, with cherry blossoms |
Availability | Limited areas | Nationwide JR stations |
Deposit | No | Yes |
Welcome Suica card provides the same functionality as the normal one during its active period. For travelers staying in Japan under four weeks, welcome Suica card is the most convenient option, and you can even bring it back home as a souvenir!
👍 Tokyo Hotel Recommendations 👍
Digital Suica Card Management
Download Suica Mobile App
Welcome Suica Mobile app allows travelers to manage their cards digitally:
- Ride Shinkansen without buying tickets (Tohoku, Akita, Yamagata, Joetsu, and Hokuriku lines)
- Save money by using 1-day travel passes inside app
- Enjoy discounts and benefits from "JR East Rewards" system
The app supports Android and iOS and can be easily downloaded from Google Play and Apple Store by searching “Suica”.
Source: Screenshot of App Store
Adding Suica Card to Apple Wallet
iPhone users can:
- Open Wallet app - Transit Card
- Select Suica, then Choose amount
- Authenticate with Face ID/Touch ID
Where to Buy a Suica Card in 2025
Available at:
- JR East stations: Tokyo, Shinagawa, Ueno, Ikebukuro, and other stations with ticket vending machines displaying the Suica logo
- Online orders: book online then pick it at the airport
When you purchase Suica in Japan offsite, prices are 1,000, 2,000, 3,000, 4,000, 5,000, or 10,000 JPY. If ordering online, your fee includes the 500 JPY deposit and 1,500 JPY credit.
Getting around Japan with Trip.com
How to Charge Your Suica Card
Here're 4 most common ways to charge your suica card:
Method | Locations | Notes |
Ticket machines | All JR stations | English menu available |
Convenience stores | 7-Eleven, Lawson, FamilyMart, etc. | Minimum ¥500 |
Mobile app | Suica Official App | Apple Pay/Google Pay accepted |
Credit card | Via Apple Wallet only | Only IPhone customers |
Source: JR East Offficial
Using Suica Card: Transport, Travel & Shopping
Suica Card for Transport: Trains, Buses & More
Suica card works across the nationwide transportation network:
- Trains: All JR lines (including Shinkansen within Tokyo area), Tokyo Metro, Toei Subway
- Buses: Most municipal buses in Tokyo metropolitan area
- Taxis, ferries, Tokyo Monorail, etc.
Note: Welcome Suica can’t be used for continuous travel across areas. A trip that begins in one area must end in that area. When moving from one area to another, exit the gate and re-enter it.
Suica Card for Shopping: Where You Can Use It
Most retail locations now accept Suica payments, including:
- Convenience stores
- Vending machines
- Supermarkets
- Fast food chains, Cafe, Rice bowl restaurant
- Drug stores
Look for the Suica or IC card logo at the checkout counter. You can use your Suica card to make purchases by simply tapping it on the card reader or through your Apple Wallet.
Suica Card for Travel: Top Attractions to Explore
FAQ about Suica Card
Does Suica work on Shinkansen (bullet trains)?
Yes, but only for non-reserved seats on JR East lines (e.g., Tokyo to Sendai). For long-distance Shinkansen, you’ll need a separate ticket.Can I use Suica in Osaka, Kyoto, or other cities?
Yes! Suica is part of Japan’s IC card network, meaning it works nationwide for trains, subways, and buses in major cities.Are there any discounts or benefits for using a Suica card?
Yes, some transportation companies offer discounts or benefits for using Suica cards, discounted fares for frequent travellers, and special promotions for tourists.Is it worth buying a Suica card?
Yes, Suica card allows you to use most public transport, including JR East lines, subways, buses, and even some taxis. The card can also be used for shopping at convenience stores, vending machines, and other retail outlets.