“Can I get a Suica card at Narita Airport?”

Yes! But the best option now is the Welcome Suica on your iPhone.

Your Options

“What are my choices?”

1. Welcome Suica (Mobile) - BEST OPTION

• Add to Apple Wallet on your iPhone
• Set it up before you even land
• No deposit needed
• Top up with credit card
• Works immediately

2. Physical Welcome Suica

• Available at JR East Travel Service Centers in Narita
• ¥500 deposit (non-refundable)
• Valid for 28 days
• Convenient if you don’t have an iPhone

3. Regular Suica from ticket machines

• Currently limited availability due to chip shortage
• ¥500 refundable deposit
• If available, works the same as Welcome Suica

How to Set Up Mobile Suica

“How does the iPhone option work?”

1. Open Apple Wallet
2. Tap ”+” to add a card
3. Select “Transit Card”
4. Choose “Suica”
5. Add money from your credit card
6. Done! Hold your phone to the reader

Works on iPhone 8 or newer.

What Can You Use Suica For?

“Where does it work?”

• All trains and subways in Tokyo and most of Japan
• Buses throughout Japan
• Convenience stores (7-Eleven, Lawson, FamilyMart)
• Vending machines
• Many restaurants and shops

It’s basically a cashless card for everything.

What Japanese People Actually Do

Most locals:

• Use Mobile Suica on their phones (iPhone or Android)
• Top up automatically from their credit card
• Use Suica to pay for almost everything
• Rarely buy physical cards anymore

Extra Travel Tips

1. Set up Mobile Suica before landing - You’ll need it immediately for the train

2. Top up at convenience stores - If you prefer using cash

3. Suica works nationwide - Not just in Tokyo

4. Check your balance - Look at your phone or tap at ticket gates

5. Android users - Google Pay supports Suica in some regions

Have more questions about transportation in Japan? Follow me on YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok for daily tips!