One of the biggest problems for foreign tourists in Japan is buying tickets from the ticket machines for public transport. It’s so confusing because of a various prices upon distance, map which is writing in Japanese and too many lines.

Actually there is the best way to make your journey more smooth and easy. Suica(スイカ) is an e-money card by JR East. It can be used for train and buses in Japan. Moreover, you can use it to pay at many stores, beverage vending machines, coin-operated locker, taxi and more! Also there is another e-money card called Pasmo. This one is by Tokyo Metro, yet it can be used for the same purpose as Suica.

So why don’t we turn our attention to how easily you can get this multipurpose card and enjoy shopping with no stress.

*Please note that this article contains affiliate links.

<< Book your SUICA card in advance and pick up at the airport! >>

How to purchase Suica

You can get a Suica card from the Ticket Offices at JR EAST or Ticket Vending Machines. (Or Pasmo at Tokyo Metro’s Ticket Machines)

Step 1 : touch Language button to change to English version

Step 2 : Choose Suica button on the left side

Step 3 : Purchase a new Suica

Step 4 : Click on Blank Suica

Step 5 : Select the amount which you would like to purchase (500 Yen will be counted as a deposit fee)

Step 6 : Insert bill or coin

Step 7 : Take your new Suica card and change

How to recharge Suica

Step 1 : Insert Suica into a ticket vending machine

Step 2 : Select ‘Charge’ button

Step 3 : Select the amount which you would like to recharge

Step 4 : Insert bill or coin

Step 5 : Recharging completed

How to use Suica

Ride on trains and buses

Step 1 : Touch the screen of the automatic ticket gate the Suica

Step 2 : You can check your balance at the display

Step 3 : Arrive your destination

Step 4 : Touch the screen of the automatic ticket gate with your Suica

At convenience store, cafe, kiosk, taxi

Step 1 : show the Suica to staff when you’re purchasing

Step 2 : Touch the Suica with the machine until the sound ‘Beep!’

Step 3 : Take the item and enjoy it 🙂

At beverage vending machines

Step 1 : choose your favorite one and press the product button

Step 2 : Touch the panel of the machine with Suica until the sound ‘Beep!’

Step 3 : Take the item from the compartment at the bottom

How to refund Suica

You can get refund by bringing your used Suica back to the Ticket Office at JR EAST. Your 500 Yen deposit will be refunded.

<< Book your SUICA card in advance and pick up at the airport! >>

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