IC Cards in Japan (Suica, Pasmo, ICOCA): Which One Should You Get?
IC cards are how I move around Japan without thinking—tap in, tap out, pay for snacks.
Which Card?
- Suica/Pasmo: Greater Tokyo + usable nationwide
- ICOCA: Kansai-based; also works nationwide
- Mobile Suica: iOS/Android (Japan region) = no physical card needed
Where to Get
- Airport kiosks, major JR/Metro stations, some convenience stores
- Reload at ticket machines/konbini; cash or card depending on machine
How I Use Them
- Trains/metro/buses nationwide (most cities)
- Konbini, vending machines, some restaurants
- Locker rentals in stations
Tips
- Keep a small balance for lockers/snacks
- If card stock runs out, use Mobile Suica (switch App Store region if needed)
- Refunds: return physical card at issuing region (Suica in Tokyo, ICOCA in Kansai)