The Ultimate Guide to IC Cards in Japan: Why You Need One and How to Use It
Planning a trip to Japan? Avoid the hassle of purchasing individual paper tickets for each train or bus journey. The key to seamless public transportation throughout Japan lies in two simple letters: IC. These prepaid smart cards enable you to tap and travel on trains, buses, at convenience stores, vending machines, and coin lockers.
What Is an IC Card in Japan?
An IC card is a prepaid, rechargeable smart card used for contactless payments across Japan. You tap it at train gates, on buses, or at shops, and the fare is deducted automatically. It’s fast, convenient, and saves you time.
It’s like a transport debit card, no need to calculate fares or figure out complicated machines each time you ride.
Are IC Cards Interchangeable Across Japan?
Yes! Whether you get your IC card in Tokyo or Osaka, you can use it almost anywhere in Japan. While each card is issued regionally, they work across systems thanks to nationwide interoperability.
For example:
Suica (Tokyo area) works in Kyoto or Osaka
ICOCA (Kansai area) works in Tokyo too
Welcome Suica is great for tourists staying under 28 days
What Are the Best IC Cards for Tourists?
Here are the three most popular options for travelers:
1. Suica Card (Tokyo & beyond)
Available at: Narita, Haneda, Tokyo Station
Deposit: ¥500 (refundable)
Rechargeable with cash only
Refundable when you leave (unused balance + deposit)
Perfect if you’re starting your trip in Tokyo and want the flexibility to use your card nationwide.
👉 Add affiliate link here for Suica card pickup or JR East Travel Center
2. Welcome Suica (Tourist-Only Version)
Also available at Tokyo airports and major stations
No deposit required
Valid for 28 days only
Non-refundable balance, so don’t overcharge it
Best if you want convenience, don’t want to deal with refunds, and your trip is under a month.
📝 Keep the reference paper you receive with your Welcome Suica, it proves your card is valid.
👉 Add affiliate link here to buy Welcome Suica online or reserve in advance
3. ICOCA Card (Osaka, Kyoto, Kansai region)
Available at: Kansai International Airport, Kyoto Station
Deposit: ¥500 (refundable)
Refund only available at JR West counters (e.g., Kyoto Station)
Recharge with cash only
Great if you’re starting in the Kansai region (Kyoto, Osaka, Nara).
👉 Add affiliate link here to buy ICOCA or pick up at KIX
Can You Use a Digital IC Card?
Yes, if you’re using an iPhone.
Go to your Apple Wallet
Tap "Add Card" → Choose “Transit Card” → Select Suica
Recharge using your credit card (huge plus!)
Android phones can’t use Suica unless they’re Japanese models
⚠️ Note: If your phone dies, your card may still work briefly, but it’s not guaranteed. Carry a power bank or stick to a physical card just to be safe.
Where Can You Use IC Cards in Japan?
You can use IC cards for:
Local trains & buses
Convenience stores (7-Eleven, FamilyMart, etc.)
Vending machines
Coin lockers at stations
Some taxis and malls
You can’t use them for:
Shinkansen (bullet trains) – unless you reserve a specific IC-compatible seat
Limited Express trains (may require additional tickets)
Some rural lines and older ticketing systems
Certain restaurants and cash-only shops
✅ Pro tip: Always carry some cash, just in case.
How to Buy and Recharge IC Cards
Where to Buy:
You’ve got a few easy options:
Order in advance online and pick up your card when you arrive at the airport.
Airport JR counters
Look for signs like “JR East Travel Service Center” or “JR West Ticket Office”Ticket machines at train stations (they usually have English language support)
💡 Minimum initial charge is typically ¥1,000, which includes:
¥500 deposit (if applicable)
¥500 in usable credit
How to Recharge:
You can top up your card easily at:
Train station ticket machines
7-Bank ATMs inside 7-Eleven stores
Convenience store counters (select locations)
Note: Most recharging methods are cash only, unless you're using a digital Suica on iPhone, which lets you recharge with a credit card.
Do Kids Need Their Own IC Card?
Yes, children need their own card to get the discounted fare.
To get a child IC card, go to a staffed JR counter with the child’s passport. These aren’t available from machines.
What If You Lose Your Card?
If you lose your physical IC card:
Take a photo of the number on the back when you first buy it
Go to the correct JR company (East or West) for help
With the card number, they may be able to assist you
No number = no help. Digital cards (iPhone) are linked to your Apple ID and can be recovered easily.
Should You Get an IC Card?
Absolutely. An IC card makes travel in Japan faster, smoother, and easier. No more juggling coins or figuring out ticket machines.
Whether you choose Suica, Welcome Suica, ICOCA, or go digital with your iPhone, you’ll thank yourself later.
Want to Order Your IC Card in Advance?
You can pre-order your Suica or Welcome Suica online and pick it up as soon as you land in Tokyo. It’s fast, easy, and one less thing to worry about after a long flight.
📲 How It Works:
Book your IC card here.
Receive a mobile voucher via email
Show your mobile voucher when you arrive in Japan
Pick up your physical card at the counter
🛬 Pickup Location: Haneda International Airport
EASYGO Counter – Terminal 3 Arrival Lobby (Right Side, Counter No. 9)
🕘 Opening hours: 09:30–18:30 (closed 13:00–14:00 for lunch)
📍 Address: Haneda Airport Terminal 3 Arrival Lobby, right side No.9
📞 Contact: 050-5490-1233
