Suica/Pasmo Card Guide 2025: Buying, Charging & Apple Pay

An IC Card (Suica, Pasmo, Icoca...) is the very first thing you need when landing in Japan. It’s used not just for trains, but also at convenience stores, vending machines, and restaurants.

1. SUICA VS PASMO - WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE?

Short answer: NOTHING! Both can be used anywhere in Japan.

• Suica: Issued by JR East (Green, penguin mascot).
• Pasmo: Issued by private railway companies (Pink).

=> Just pick the color you like!

2. HOW TO BUY A CARD

At the Ticket Machine:

1. Tap "English" on the screen.
2. Select "Purchase new card".
3. Choose the deposit amount (500 JPY deposit + 1500-2000 JPY balance = 2000-2500 JPY total).
4. Insert cash → Receive your card.

Note: The 500 JPY deposit is refunded when you return the card.

3. HOW TO CHARGE (RELOAD)

• Ticket Machine: Select "Charge" → Insert cash (1000, 2000, 5000, 10000 JPY bills).
• Convenience Store (Combini): Hand the card to the cashier and say "Charge kudasai" + the amount.
• Mobile App: Link a credit card and reload online instantly.

4. MOBILE SUICA/PASMO (APPLE PAY/GOOGLE PAY)

You can ditch the physical card and use your phone!

Pros:

• Never lose your card.
• Charge anytime, anywhere.
• Check transaction history.

How to setup (iPhone):

1. Open Apple Wallet → Add Card → Select Transit Card (Suica/Pasmo).
2. Link your credit card.
3. Charge it and tap away.

5. HOW TO USE

• Trains: Tap the reader at the ticket gate (Kaisatsu) when entering and exiting.
• Shopping: Hold the card over the reader at the register.
• Buses: Tap when boarding or exiting (depends on the bus line).

6. GETTING A REFUND BEFORE LEAVING

If you're leaving Japan for good, you can return the card and get your remaining balance + 500 JPY deposit back.

How to:

• Go to a JR counter (for Suica) or Metro counter (for Pasmo).
• Say: "Haraimodoshi onegaishimasu" (I'd like a refund).
• Receive cash.

Fee: A 220 JPY processing fee is deducted from your balance.

CONCLUSION

An IC card is an absolute must-have. Get it on Day 1!