Suica and IC cards: how visitors can pay for trains and shops
A Suica is a rechargeable IC card for trains, buses, vending machines and many shops. Visitors can get a Welcome Suica card or use Welcome Suica Mobile on a phone.
What is an IC card?
An IC card is a rechargeable card you tap on a gate or reader. Suica is the card from JR East, and other regions have similar cards such as PASMO and ICOCA. Many of them work together, so one card can be used for trains and buses in many cities.
You can also pay at many convenience stores (konbini), restaurants and drink vending machines that show the Suica logo. Not every shop accepts it, so look for the logo.
Options for visitors
- Welcome Suica: a card made for short stays. It has no deposit and is valid for 28 days from issue.
- Welcome Suica Mobile: an app version for your phone. The balance expires 180 days after the first top-up.
- Check the JR East site for where and how to get each one, because sales points can change.
How to top up
You add money to the card in advance. Top-up is possible at ticket machines in stations, and many convenience stores also offer it, mostly with cash. Check the machine screen for a language button.
- Tap your card on the reader at the gate when you enter and exit.
- If the gate shows a red light or a low balance message, top up and try again.
Refunds and leftover money
A Welcome Suica card is not refundable, even if there is money left on it. The only exception is a card that does not work. Spend the balance at a shop or vending machine before you leave.
For Welcome Suica Mobile, the balance also cannot be refunded after it expires. Plan your top-ups in small amounts.
FAQ
Can I use Suica in every city in Japan?
Most big cities accept Suica or a compatible card. Some small areas do not, and a long trip between regions may need a normal ticket. Check the route before you go.
Can I get my money back at the end of the trip?
For Welcome Suica, usually not. Use up the balance on drinks, snacks or a last train ride.
Do I need an IC card if I have a rail pass?
A pass covers certain trains, but you may still want an IC card for subways, buses and shops.
Sources
Related tips
- Do you tip in Japan?Short answer: no. Tipping is not expected in restaurants, cafes, taxis or hotels in Japan. Here is when it is fine, and what to do instead.
- Emergency numbers in Japan: 110, 119 and the visitor hotlineWho to call in Japan: 110 for the police, 119 for an ambulance or fire, and a 24-hour English hotline for visitors.
- How to ride a taxi in Japan: automatic doors, signs and paymentDo not touch the door, because the driver opens and closes it for you. A red sign means the taxi is free. Show your destination in Japanese and do not tip.
- Withdrawing yen with a foreign card: Seven Bank ATMsSeven Bank ATMs, found in 7-Eleven stores, accept many foreign cards such as Visa, Mastercard, UnionPay, American Express and JCB. The limit is 100,000 yen per withdrawal.
Last checked: 2026-10-27. Rules and prices can change, so please confirm with the official sources above.