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Japan Transit Cards Explained: Do Suica, PASMO, and ICOCA Work Everywhere?
Japanese transit cards have different names in each region, but the 10 main cards are interchangeable, so with just one you can use most trains, buses, and convenience stores across the country.
The 10 Main Interchangeable Transit Cards
- Hokkaido: Kitaca · Greater Tokyo: Suica, PASMO · Tokai: TOICA, manaca · Kansai: ICOCA, PiTaPa · Kyushu: SUGOCA, nimoca, Hayakaken
- A card from any region can be used for rides and payments in other regions (PiTaPa is postpaid, so it's hard for foreign visitors to get one).
- Some local lines and buses only accept their own regional card, so check the information on site.
Mobile Transit Cards on iPhone
- You can add Suica, PASMO, or ICOCA directly in the iPhone Wallet app. No need to buy a physical card.
- Top up in the Wallet app with a card registered to Apple Pay, or with cash at stations and convenience stores (cards issued outside Japan sometimes can't be used to top up).
- Most Android phones bought outside Japan can't use Japanese mobile transit cards, so a physical card is the safer choice.
Good to Know
- You can top up with cash at station ticket machines or at convenience store registers.
- On the Osaka subway, the Fukuoka subway, and some private railways, you can also tap a contactless credit card such as Visa right at the ticket gate. It varies by line.
- Spend any remaining balance at convenience stores or vending machines before you leave the country.
Check official info
Last updated: 2026-10-30
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