IC Cards: How to Use Suica and Pasmo

Learn how to get, charge, and use Japan’s main transit IC cards.

Suica and Pasmo are transit IC cards that can be used not only on trains and buses, but also at convenience stores, supermarkets, and many vending machines. They are one of the first things worth getting in Japan.

Suica vs. Pasmo

Functionally, they are almost the same. Both can be used across major transport systems in Japan.

• Suica: issued by JR East
• Pasmo: issued by private railway, subway, and bus operators

Pick whichever is easier to get at the airport or your nearest station.

Where to get one

• Ticket machines at major airports
• Ticket machines at stations that display the Suica or Pasmo logo

Basic purchase flow

1. Choose Suica or Pasmo purchase at the machine

2. Pay the deposit and your starting charge amount

3. Receive the card

The deposit is usually refundable if you later return the card.

How to charge it

• Station ticket machines
• Convenience store counters
• Mobile Suica app in some cases

Where you can use it

• Trains, subways, and buses
• Convenience stores
• Many supermarkets and drugstores
• Vending machines
• Shops and restaurants inside stations

If your balance is too low

If you cannot get through the gate because of insufficient balance, use the fare adjustment machine inside the station.