If you’re heading to Japan soon, you’ve probably heard someone mention the Suica card. Or ICOCA. They’re all types of IC cards that make it so much easier to get around on trains, buses, and even for grabbing a drink at a vending machine.
But how do you actually get one? Especially now, when a lot has changed since the pandemic and the big IC card shortage. This guide will walk you through how to purchase a Suica card (or ICOCA if you’re in the Kansai region), and help you decide which option makes the most sense for your trip.
Option 1: Add a Suica Card to Your iPhone
Let’s start with the easiest method: going digital.
If you have an iPhone (model 8 or later), you can add a Suica card right into your Apple Wallet. It works just like a physical card, but better. You don’t even need to open an app. Just tap your phone at the ticket gate and go.
Here’s how to purchase a Suica card using your iPhone:
- Go to Settings > General > Language & Region and set your region to Japan (you can change it back later).
- Open the Wallet app.
- Tap the “+” sign, then Transit card and choose Suica.
- Follow the steps to add money.
- You can top it up anytime using Apple Pay. If your card doesn’t work, a Wise virtual card usually does the trick.
Option 2: Buy a Welcome Suica at the Airport
If you’d rather have something in your hand (or if you don’t use an iPhone), don’t worry. You can still get a Welcome Suica at Tokyo’s airports, either Narita Terminal 1 or 2, or Haneda Terminal 3.
It’s super convenient for short-term visitors:
- No deposit
- Preloaded with ¥1,000 or ¥2,000
- Valid for 28 days
- Non-refundable, so spend it all before you go!
You can get one at the JR East Travel Service Center or one of the red vending machines near the airport train stations.
Option 3: Buy a Regular Suica Card at a JR East Station
Now here’s some good news. After a long pause due to chip shortages, physical Suica card sales fully resumed in March 2025. You can now buy one at JR East stations like Tokyo, Ueno, or Shinjuku.
Just note: you’ll need to register your name when buying it. It only takes a minute at the machine.
Why register? If you lose it, you can cancel the card and get your balance transferred to a new one. Super helpful.
- Price: ¥2,000 (includes ¥1,500 balance + ¥500 deposit)
- Valid for 10 years after last use
- Refundable (minus a small fee)
If you’re planning to come back to Japan, or staying longer than a month, this might be your best bet.
ICOCA Options (Kansai Region)
If you’re flying into Osaka, Kyoto, or Kobe, you’ll probably see the ICOCA card instead. Same idea, just from JR West instead of JR East.
You can buy one at Kansai International Airport or any major JR West station.
- Price: ¥2,000 (¥1,500 value + ¥500 deposit)
- Refundable at JR West counters
- Works across most of Japan
Where You Can Use These Cards
Once you’ve figured out how to purchase a Suica card, you’ll find yourself using it everywhere. It’s not just about trains.
- Vending machines: Most take IC cards now. Super handy when you’re thirsty or need a snack.
- Convenience stores: 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, Lawson
- Cafés and restaurants: Especially in bigger cities like Tokyo and Osaka.
- Buses and trams: Just tap when boarding.
- Taxis: Some accept IC card payment too.
And since Japan still uses a lot of coins for small purchases, having an IC card saves you from walking around with a pocket full of change.
Quick Comparison
| Option | Where To Get | Deposit | Expires | Refundable |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Digital Suica | Apple Wallet | None | 10 years after last use | No |
| Physical Suica | JR East stations | JPY500 | 10 years after last use | Yes, minus fee |
| Digital Welcome Suica | Apple Wallet | None | 180 days | No |
| Physical Welcome Suica | Narita/Haneda & JR Centers | None | 28 days | No |
| ICOCA | Kansai Airport, JR West stations | JPY500 | 10 years after last use | Yes, minus fee |
Why It’s Handy for Club Med Guests
Here’s how the Suica card help you before and after your Club Med stay:
- Train from New Chitose or Sapporo to Otaru: Suica and ICOCA both work on the JR Hokkaido trains that take you from Chitose or Sapporo to Otaru (Kiroro)
- Airport snacks and shopping: Use your card at airport shops, vending machines, and convenience stores when arriving or leaving Japan.
- Tokyo stopovers: If you’re adding a few nights in Tokyo before heading to Club Med Kiroro Grand, a Suica card makes local travel so much easier.
- Spending your remaining balance: Buy souvenirs or snacks at train stations before you fly home.
FAQs: Suica Card or ICOCA card in 2025
Can I use one card throughout Japan?
Yes, Suica and ICOCA are all interoperable. You can use a Suica in Osaka, or an ICOCA in Tokyo. It works pretty much nationwide on trains, subways, buses, and shops.
Can I refund the unused balance?
Yes, but only for regular Suica and ICOCA cards. Just go to a JR East or JR West service counter, and they’ll sort it out. A small fee applies. The Digital Suica and Welcome Suica are not refundable.
What if I don’t have an iPhone?
You can still get a physical card. Either go for a Welcome Suica (great for short stays), or get a registered Suica or ICOCA if you need something longer-term or want the option to refund
Final Thoughts
So now you know exactly how to purchase a Suica card. Whether you’re grabbing a physical one at the airport, registering for a longer-term card at a train station, or just adding it to your iPhone before you even land.
No matter which option you choose, these cards make getting around Japan smoother, quicker, and honestly… kind of fun. Plus, they’re super useful beyond transport, so you’ll definitely get your money’s worth.
Enjoy Japan, and don’t forget to tap before you go through the gate! 📱
