IC Cards in Japan: Suica, PASMO, ICOCA

An IC card is a rechargeable contactless smart card that works on trains, buses, and at most convenience stores across Japan. Getting one on your first day in Japan makes navigating public transport far easier than buying individual tickets. This guide explains the main IC cards, how to get one, and how to use it.

The Main IC Cards

There are several regional IC cards in Japan, but the three most useful for tourists are:

Suica — Issued by JR East. Works across most of Japan. The go-to card for visitors arriving at Tokyo or Narita/Haneda airports.
PASMO — Issued by Tokyo Metro and private railways. Functionally identical to Suica for most users. Accepted on the same networks.
ICOCA — Issued by JR West. The standard card for the Osaka/Kyoto/Hiroshima region. Also accepted widely across Japan.

All three are mutually compatible — a Suica bought in Tokyo works on trains in Osaka, Kyoto, and most of Japan. Choose whichever is easiest to obtain at your point of entry.

Where to Get an IC Card

Suica: Vending machines at JR East stations, including Narita and Haneda airports. Also available as a digital Suica on iPhone and some Android phones.
PASMO: Vending machines at Tokyo Metro and most private railway stations.
ICOCA: Vending machines at JR West stations, including Kansai International Airport (KIX).

Cards typically require a refundable deposit (¥500). You load credit at station vending machines (minimum top-up varies; ¥1,000 is typical). Check current deposit and minimum amounts on the issuer’s website before travel.

What You Can Pay For With an IC Card

JR trains, Tokyo Metro, most private railways, subways in major cities
Buses in most major cities (including some rural routes)
Convenience stores (7-Eleven, Lawson, FamilyMart and most others)
Some vending machines, coin lockers, and fast food restaurants
Taxis (select cars display the IC card mark)

IC Card vs JR Pass

These serve different purposes. The JR Pass covers Shinkansen and long-distance JR travel. An IC card covers local trains, metro, buses, and everyday small payments. Most travelers need both — the JR Pass for city-to-city trips, an IC card for getting around within each city. See the Japan Rail Pass Guide for whether a JR Pass is worth it for your itinerary.

Cash vs Cards in Japan

Japan remains partially cash-dependent, though card and mobile payment acceptance has grown significantly. The following tend to require cash:

Some small ramen shops, izakaya, and local restaurants
Shrine and temple entry fees
Some rural accommodation and onsen

7-Eleven and Japan Post ATMs reliably accept foreign debit and credit cards. Carry some yen — JPY 10,000–20,000 is a reasonable amount for a day’s exploration in a major city. ATM operating hours and withdrawal limits vary.