For foreign travelers visiting Japan, having smooth and hassle-free transportation and shopping payments is essential. That’s why I highly recommend “Welcome Suica” and “Welcome Suica Mobile.” Suica is widely used as a transportation IC card in Japan, allowing users to pay not only for trains and buses but also at convenience stores and vending machines. The “Welcome Suica” is a special IC card specifically designed for short-term visitors. Recently, the mobile version, “Welcome Suica Mobile,” has also been introduced, making it even more convenient. In this article, I will explain the features and usage of Welcome Suica and Welcome Suica Mobile in detail.
１．What is Welcome Suica?
Welcome Suica is a transportation IC card exclusively for foreign visitors in Japan. Unlike the regular Suica, it has a fixed validity period of 28 days and becomes unusable after that. However, since it does not require a deposit, the initial purchase process is simple and user-friendly. It can be used not only for paying train and bus fares but also at convenience stores, restaurants, vending machines, and many other places.
Welcome Suica（IC企画乗車券付き） | JR-EAST
２．Where Can You Use Transportation IC Cards?
Transportation IC cards, including Suica, can be used in the following situations:
・Train and bus fares: Simply tap the card at the ticket gates for smooth entry.
・Convenience stores and supermarkets: Tell the cashier, “I’ll pay with Suica,” and tap the terminal for instant payment.
・Vending machines: Buy drinks and snacks without needing coins.
・Cafés and restaurants: Many participating stores allow cashless payments.
・Taxis: If the taxi supports Suica, you can pay effortlessly upon arrival.
I personally use Suica all the time, especially at convenience stores and vending machines. Just a moment ago, I bought ketchup using Suica. It’s great not having to open my wallet, and payments are completed within seconds!
３．How to Purchase Welcome Suica and Where to Buy It
Welcome Suica can be purchased at the following locations:
①Airports
・Haneda Airport Terminal 3: In front of the Monorail ticket gate, to the right upon exiting arrivals.
・Narita Airport: JR East counters and other locations.
②Major Train Stations
JR East’s main stations such as Tokyo Station, Shinjuku Station, and Shibuya Station, at ticket counters or designated vending machines.
③Tourist Information Centers
Some tourist information centers also sell Welcome Suica.
You may be required to show your passport when purchasing, so be sure to have it ready.
４．How to Recharge Suica
If your Suica balance runs low, you can easily recharge it:
・Station ticket machines: Select “Charge” on a Suica-compatible machine, insert cash, and you’re good to go.
・Convenience stores: Simply tell the cashier, “Please charge my Suica,” and hand over the cash.
・Automatic recharge (for Mobile Suica only): By registering a credit card, Suica can automatically top up when the balance is low.
５．About Welcome Suica Mobile
The newly introduced “Welcome Suica Mobile” is the digital version of Welcome Suica, which can be used on smartphones. It works with Apple iPhones and certain Android devices, allowing travelers to pay and pass through ticket gates without carrying a physical card.
・Supported Countries: The countries where you can issue a Suica before entering Japan are as follows: South Korea, Taiwan, Malaysia, Singapore, Australia, and Vietnam. (*As of March 6, 2025. This information is subject to change.)
・How to Use: Add Welcome Suica to your smartphone’s Wallet app, charge it using a credit card or Apple Pay, and start using it immediately.
With just your smartphone, you can smoothly pass through ticket gates, making this service perfect for travelers who want to minimize their luggage.
Welcome Suica Mobile | JR-EAST
Japan’s transportation IC cards are incredibly convenient, not only for commuting but also for everyday payments. Especially for foreign visitors, using Welcome Suica or Welcome Suica Mobile reduces the hassle of carrying cash, allowing for a more comfortable travel experience. As someone who regularly uses Suica, I can confidently say that it makes daily life much easier. When you visit Japan, be sure to use Welcome Suica for a seamless and enjoyable trip!
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