Planning to zip around Tokyo on trains, subways, and buses can feel overwhelming. You’ll probably pay around 150–200 JPY per ride, and that can add up to nearly 1,000 JPY a day on public transport (Rakuten Travel). In this ultimate guide on tokyo transportation card comparison, you’ll discover which IC cards and passes fit your travel style and budget. Let’s dive into the features, costs, and perks of each option so you can pick the one that makes your Tokyo trip smooth and cost-effective.
Compare IC card options
IC cards let you tap and go without buying a ticket for each ride. Here’s how the main players stack up.
Suica card
Overview
Suica is issued by JR East, and it works across trains, subways, buses, and even at convenience stores.
Pricing and deposit
- Initial cost ranges from 1,000 JPY to 10,000 JPY in value, including a 500 JPY refundable deposit (Go Tokyo).
- You can load up to 20,000 JPY at once.
Use cases
- Tap in and out on JR East lines, Tokyo Metro, Toei subways, and most buses.
- Pay at shops, vending machines, and taxis that accept electronic money.
Pros and cons
- + Widely accepted across Greater Tokyo.
- + Deposit refund available at airports or major stations (suica card refund tokyo airport).
- – No built-in discounts over paper tickets, though you save a few yen per ride on some lines.
- – Card expires after ten years of inactivity.
Pasmo card
Overview
Pasmo works just like Suica, with coverage on private railways, subways, and buses.
Pricing and deposit
- Requires a 500 JPY deposit, loaded with 1,000 JPY minimum.
- Maximum balance is 20,000 JPY.
Use cases
- Accepted on 28 rail operators and 73 bus operators (Go Tokyo).
- Can pay at stores and kiosks that take Pasmo.
Pros and cons
- + Seamless travel on private lines not covered by JR East.
- + Easy top-up at ticket machines and convenience stores.
- – No official mobile version yet, unlike Suica.
- – No automatic fare discount, but rounding differences may save 1–9 JPY per trip.
Mobile IC options
Mobile Suica
If you have an iPhone, you can link a Suica card in Apple Pay. Android users can set up mobile Suica but it can be tricky for first-time visitors (mobile suica for tourists).
Other mobile cards
Some foreign IC cards won’t work in Japan, so stick to Suica or Pasmo on your phone.
Explore day passes
Riding multiple times in one day? A day pass might pay off.
Tokyo subway ticket
The Tokyo Subway Ticket covers all Toei and Tokyo Metro lines for 24, 48, or 72 hours.
- Choose the duration that matches your sightseeing plans.
- Valid on unlimited rides within the time window.
- Purchase online or at airport kiosks.
Metro day passes
Tokyo Metro 24-Hour Ticket
Unlimited rides on Tokyo Metro lines for 24 hours after first use (tokyo subway 24 hour ticket).
Common One-Day Ticket
Covers both Toei Subway and Tokyo Metro for one day, sold as a PASMO-based pass (tokyo metro pass vs suica).
Metro multi-day ticket
Tokyo Metro 72-Hour Ticket
Good for three days of unlimited Tokyo Metro rides (tokyo metro 72 hour ticket). Handy if you plan back-to-back museum or temple visits.
Combined starter kit
The Tokyo Starter Kit bundles a Tokyo Subway Ticket, a bus pass, and travel insurance. It even includes medical interpretation and natural disaster alerts, so you feel safe while you explore (Go Tokyo).
Evaluate JR rail passes
Rail passes from JR East or nationwide can save you cash if you cover long distances in and around Tokyo.
Japan Rail Pass
Suitability for Tokyo
The national JR Pass covers Yamanote and other JR lines in Tokyo, but it costs more than pay-as-you-go for inner-city trips (Japan Guide).
Yamanote line coverage
If you want all-day access to the Yamanote loop, check jr pass yamanote line coverage.
Budget tip
JR Pass isn’t ideal for only Tokyo travel; it shines on long journeys to Kyoto, Osaka, or Hokkaido.
Tokyo Wide Pass
Coverage and price
Unlimited JR East trains and Shinkansen around Tokyo for three days, including Narita Express and local lines (tokyo wide pass yamanote line).
Pros and cons
- + Great for day trips to Nikko or Mount Fuji.
- – Not worth it if you’re staying in central Tokyo.
Regional rail passes
When to consider
Heading to a specific area like Chiba or Nikko? A regional pass can yield savings over standard tickets (Japan Guide).
Buying tip
Buy these in advance or at major stations before you leave Tokyo.
Choose your best option
Everybody travels differently, so let’s match cards and passes to your style.
Travelers with tight budgets
- Stick to a Suica card or Pasmo.
- Plan routes to minimize transfers.
- Buy day passes only if you’ll ride more than 5 times.
Short stay visitors
- Grab a Welcome Suica (no deposit, 28-day use) at Narita or Haneda.
- Combine a 24-Hour Subway Ticket with a Suica for buses.
Frequent commuters
- Top up an IC card.
- No need for a rail pass if you stay within city limits.
Tech-savvy explorers
- Use Mobile Suica for quick top-ups.
- Track balance in your wallet app.
Tips for using cards
A few pointers will help you avoid hiccups while tapping in and out.
Recharging your card
- Use ticket machines or convenience stores.
- Keep receipts for refunds if you overshoot the 20,000 JPY limit.
Getting a refund
- Return cards at JR East stations or airport kiosks (suica card deposit refund).
- Refunds take 1–2 weeks if sent by mail.
Avoiding common mistakes
- Don’t toss your IC card in a pocket with magnets.
- Make sure you tap both in and out to avoid penalties.
Extra perks
- Some participating stores give small discounts on electronic payments (Rakuten Travel).
- Use your IC card balance for vending machines and coin lockers.
Answer common questions
-
What’s the main difference between Suica and Pasmo?
Both cards work the same way, but Suica is run by JR East and Pasmo covers more private lines. For a deeper dive, see suica pasmo difference explained. -
Can I use a Tokyo IC card in other Japanese cities?
Yes, Suica and Pasmo interoperate with most IC cards nationwide, but check if local buses are covered. -
How do I buy a Pasmo card with English instructions?
Pasmo machines have an English option, or find step-by-step help in pasmo card english instructions. -
Should I get a JR Pass for Tokyo only?
If you’re sticking to central Tokyo, it’s usually cheaper to use an IC card or day passes (jr pass worth it tokyo only). -
How long does a Welcome Suica last?
The Welcome Suica expires 28 days after first use and doesn’t require a deposit, making it perfect for short trips.
Feel free to mix and match cards, passes, and tips to fit your itinerary. Safe travels—enjoy Tokyo with zero ticket-window lines and maximum efficiency!
