After arriving in Japan, having an IC card allows you to use transportation to your hotel immediately and avoids waiting in line at the station later.
How to get an IC card at the airport
1. Find a ticket machine or a station counter that sells IC card
2. Pay the initial amount (usually 2,000–3,000 yen, including a 500 yen deposit and 1,500–2,500 yen usable balance)
⚠️ IC cards can usually only be purchased with cash
💡Returning the IC card will refund the deposit (500 yen). Remaining balance is non-refundable.
⭐️Recommended: Mobile IC Card (PASMO)
・Obtainable in advance via a smartphone app
・If you charge it in the app beforehand, you can use it immediately upon arrival
・Also easy to use via Apple Pay
・No deposit (500 yen) required
💡For more information about Mobile PASMO, visit the official website:
👉 https://www.pasmo.co.jp
Download the Mobile PASMO app (App Store and Google Play):
👉 https://www.pasmo.co.jp/mp
How to use an IC card
・Tap the card on the reader at the ticket gate when entering and leaving the station.
・You can also use it on most buses by tapping when boarding and leaving.
・No need to calculate the fare; the system deducts the correct amount automatically.
💡If your balance is insufficient, the gate will alert you. You can always top-up before exiting.
How to charge (reload) an IC card
1. Go to a ticket machine, automatic charge machine or convenience store registers (konbini).
2. Insert your card, choose “Charge / Top-up,” and select the amount.
Other uses
・It can also be used at convenience stores, vending machines and some restaurants.
・You can use it at coin lockers in city stations by tapping the IC card to lock or unlock, making it very convenient.