A Pasmo card is the same as a Suica. You can use it for trains, subways and metro stations and some buses. It is also a tap on card. You can purchase a Pasmo at most stations ( including subway stations) at a vending machine by tapping ENGLISH on the machine and following the instructions provided.

In 2026, the choice between Suica and Pasmo is largely cosmetic, as they are fully interchangeable and functionally identical for nearly all forms of public transport in Japan. Both cards allow you to "tap and go" on subways, buses, and trains, and both can be used to pay at convenience stores and vending machines. For tourists, the primary versions are the Welcome Suica and Pasmo Passport, which are valid for 28 days and require no deposit. The main difference lies in the "cute factor" and ease of purchase: Pasmo Passport often features Sanrio characters like Hello Kitty, while Welcome Suica usually has a classic cherry blossom design. If you have an iPhone, the "best" option is simply whichever one you add to your Apple Wallet first, as both can be topped up instantly via Apple Pay. If you are starting your trip at Haneda Airport, the Welcome Suica vending machines are very convenient, whereas Pasmo is often easier to find at subway station counters within Tokyo.

That’s an excellent and very common question for travelers to Japan! The short answer is: For most tourists, there is no practical difference between Suica and Pasmo. They are functionally interchangeable for 99% of use cases.

Think of them like Visa and MasterCard—different brands, but accepted in the same places.

Here’s a detailed breakdown to help you understand and choose:

Core Similarities (Why It Doesn’t Matter)

• Interoperability: Both are accepted on virtually all trains, subways, and buses in the Tokyo metro area (Greater Tokyo, Yokohama) and in most major cities across Japan (like Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima, Sapporo, etc.).
• Function: Both are rechargeable IC cards used for tap-and-go payment on transit.
• Other Uses: Both can be used at convenience stores (7-Eleven, FamilyMart, Lawson), vending machines, many taxis, chain restaurants, and even for lockers or shopping at stations.
• Deposit & Refund: Both require a 500 yen deposit included in the initial purchase price. You can get a refund of the remaining balance plus the deposit (minus a 220 yen handling fee if refunded at a station) when you leave Japan.

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Minor Historical & Regional Differences

These are mostly trivia now, but explain why two systems exist: Suica: Originally launched by JR East (Japan Railways East). Its mascot is a penguin. Pasmo: Originally launched by a consortium of private railway and bus companies in Tokyo as a response to Suica. Its mascot is a… well, an abstract smiling face. Regional Cards: Other regions have their own equivalents (ICOCA in Kansai, Kitaca in Hokkaido, etc.), but Suica and Pasmo work nationwide on the designated networks