Japan Travel Fixes
How do IC cards like Suica and Pasmo work for tourists?
An IC card is a rechargeable tap-to-pay card that works on nearly all trains and buses nationwide, plus at convenience stores and vending machines. You can buy and charge one at any station ticket machine, or add one to your smartphone wallet.
Suica (JR East) and Pasmo (Tokyo-area private railways) are the two most common IC cards, but both work interchangeably across almost the entire country's train and bus networks, not just their home region.
To get one, use a ticket machine at any major station — look for the English language button — insert cash, and the card is ready to use immediately with the initial balance minus a small deposit (for physical cards).
Recharge (called 'chāji') at the same machines by inserting cash and tapping your card.
If your phone supports Apple Pay or Google Wallet, you can often add a digital Suica directly without a physical card, and top it up with a registered credit card.
Ask at a ticket machine or station office if you need help
Suicaのチャージの仕方を教えてください
Suica no chaaji no shikata o oshiete kudasai
Please show me how to recharge my Suica