What transport card to use in Tokyo?

PASMO is a convenient prepaid transportation card that contains an integrated-circuit (IC) chip, allowing the user to enter the subway by simply placing the card over a PASMO card reader located on the fare gates. The card is rechargeable and can be used over and over.



In 2026, the best transport card for Tokyo is a "digital" Suica or PASMO card integrated into your smartphone's wallet. While physical cards are still available, Japan has largely transitioned to mobile-first transit. You can use Suica and PASMO interchangeably on almost all trains, subways, and buses throughout Tokyo and the rest of Japan. These cards are "Integrated Circuit" (IC) cards that allow for seamless "tap-and-go" entry. A major advantage of the digital version is the ability to top up your balance instantly using your phone's stored credit card, avoiding the need to find a ticket machine and use cash. Beyond transportation, these cards are widely accepted as a form of "electronic money" at convenience stores (Konbini), vending machines, and many restaurants. For 2026 travelers, the Welcome Suica (a physical card with no deposit fee) remains a popular choice for those who cannot use mobile wallets, though it expires after 28 days. Whether you choose Suica or PASMO, having one is essential for navigating Tokyo's complex rail network without the hassle of purchasing individual paper tickets for every transfer.

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You can load a minimum amount of JPY1,000 at convenience stores. Short-term visitors can also consider the special Welcome Suica card. This tourist card with a sakura design comes without a JPY500 deposit fee but is valid for only four weeks and the balance credit cannot be refunded.

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Will a Suica card save me money over regular train tickets? Yes, but only a very little at a time. Within Tokyo, the fare for Suica (or any IC card) users is a couple of yen cheaper than the full fare price.

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For a limited time only, you can buy a Japan Rail Pass from certain train stations and airports in Japan. Travelers should be aware it is more expensive to buy a JR Pass in Japan than to purchase the pass online.

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Where to buy a My Suica card? You can purchase a “My Suica” at any JR East station ticketing machine or booth, including the ones located at Narita and Haneda airport. You can also buy it at some tourist information centers.

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Update: There's now an English version of the Suica app, SuicaEng. You can download that instead of following these instructions for using the Japanese app. Download the Suica app on the App Store, then follow the screenshots below because the app doesn't have an English localization.

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The likelihood that credit cards are accepted decreases in small cities and towns, and thus it is advisable to keep cash at hand when visiting rural areas. Cash is often the only way to pay for small entrance fees at tourist sights, smaller restaurants and small shops. Many lockers also require coins.

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Though use of credit cards and e-currency has increased in recent years, Japan is still largely a cash-based society. The national currency of Japan is the Japanese Yen (¥). It's best to get some cash converted before you leave home so you have change handy to catch the train to your destination once you arrive.

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If you calculate that your travel costs will be lower if you buy individual tickets for each journey, then it's not worth buying a JR Pass. However, if you take into account journeys on Shinkansen high-speed trains or other means of transport, the savings you make become substantial.

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While the metro lines do no accept the JR Pass, other IC Cards, such as the Pasmo and Suica, may be used. These cards give you access to almost any train or bus in Tokyo, and are a perfect complement to the JR Pass.

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Practical information on the Suica card The Suica card is ready to use and already credited with 2000 yen (including a 500 yen deposit). To recover the deposit, you will have to return your card in Tokyo only, at JR East stations. You can keep your Suica card for your next trip. It will remain valid for 10 years.

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