In Japan, we always call them “transportation IC cards.”
They are incredibly useful.
If you’ve been to Hong Kong, they’re similar to the Octopus Card.
If you’ve been to Singapore, think of something like EZ-Link.
In Tokyo, the most common ones are Suica and PASMO.
Some visitors may think IC cards are mainly for trains and buses.
But honestly?
In Tokyo, you can get through most of your day with just an IC card.
Since this is Notes From Tokyo, let’s take a little Tokyo day trip together.
Imagine this.
You check out of your hotel in the morning.
You grab breakfast at a convenience store or stop by a café.
You leave your luggage in a locker and hop on a train.
How about visiting Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa?
Maybe you get a little hungry and buy some street food.
Or maybe you pick up a few souvenirs.
Feeling thirsty?
Don’t worry.
There is probably a vending machine nearby.
Vending machines are everywhere in Japan.
After lunch, it’s time to hop on another train.
You can’t leave Tokyo without visiting Shibuya, right?
If you have extra time, Meiji Shrine is a great choice too.
And of course, don’t miss the famous Scramble Crossing.
Hungry again?
No problem.
Shibuya has plenty of places to eat.
After dinner, maybe you want to enjoy the city lights.
Wait…
Did you get a small cut while exploring?
Let’s grab a first-aid kit from a drugstore.
Now you’re tired.
You’ve been walking all day.
Take the train back, pick up your luggage from the locker, and head to your next hotel.
Sounds fun, doesn’t it?
Well, here’s the best part.
Almost everything I just described can be paid for with an IC card.
Pretty amazing, right?
To be honest, I personally carry cash and credit cards mostly as a backup.
They only come out when I really need them. 😄
Of course, not every place accepts IC cards.
Shrines and temples sometimes require cash.
Older shops and older facilities may not accept IC cards either.
That’s why I recommend carrying a small amount of Japanese yen and a credit card, just in case.
And if there’s a place you absolutely want to visit, check the payment methods beforehand.
Not sure?
Feel free to leave a comment.
If it’s something I can check, I’ll do my best to help.
So, did I convince you?
Transportation IC cards are one of the most useful things you can have while visiting Japan.
They’re easy to use, convenient, and very traveler-friendly.
Definitely keep them in mind for your trip!