How To Get + Use JAPAN SUICA CARD on iPhone With/Without CARD NUMBER

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the process of obtaining and using a Japan Suica Card on your iPhone, whether you prefer a physical card or a digital one. The Suica Card is an essential tool for travelers in Japan, allowing you to make cashless payments for public transportation, vending machines, and more.

Chapter 1: Understanding Physical vs Digital Cards

• IC Cards: In Japan, IC cards are prepaid rechargeable cards used for various payments, including train tickets, buses, taxis, vending machines, and convenience stores.
• Types of Cards:
  • Welcome Suica Card: Designed for visitors, valid for 28 days and non-refundable.
  • Pasmo Passport Card: Similar to the Welcome Suica Card, also for visitors.
• Important Note: Do not load excessive funds onto these visitor cards, as any remaining balance is lost after 28 days.

Chapter 2: Installing IC Cards on Your Smartphone

You can obtain a Japan IC Card digitally through two main methods:

1. Using Apple Wallet (iPhone) or Google Pay (Android)
2. Using the Suica App

Before proceeding, ensure you have a credit or debit card set up on your phone.

Chapter 3: Setting Up a Credit or Debit Card

1. Open the Apple Wallet app on your iPhone.
2. Tap the plus button to add a card.
3. Select Credit or Debit Card.
4. Follow the prompts to enter your card information.
5. Once added, your card will appear in your Apple Wallet.

Chapter 4: Adding the Suica Card to Apple Wallet

1. Open the Apple Wallet app.
2. Tap the plus button.
3. Select Transit Card.
4. Search for Suica and select it.
5. Choose the amount to add (e.g., 1,000 yen).
6. Read and agree to the terms and conditions.
7. Select the credit/debit card you registered.
8. Double-click the side button to charge the selected amount to the Suica card.

Chapter 5: Setting Up the Suica Card via Suica App

1. Download the Suica Finance App from the Apple App Store.
   • Note: The app is primarily in Japanese; use Google Translate for assistance.
2. Open the app and tap on Suica Issue to start.
3. Choose one of the three options:
   • My Suica: Requires registration with your name.
   • Suica Commuter Pass: For regular users.
   • Suica without Name: Anonymously usable.
4. Select My Suica and proceed to member registration.
5. Agree to the terms and provide your email address.
6. Enter the confirmation code sent to your email.
7. Create a password and input your personal information (name, birthday, gender, postal code, phone number).
8. Choose the amount to add (e.g., 2,000 yen) and select your payment method (Apple Pay).
9. Confirm the payment by double-clicking the side button and entering your phone passcode.
10. After the payment is successful, add the Suica card to your Apple Wallet.

Chapter 6: Benefits of Having a Card with a Number

• Advantages:
  • Accumulate points for discounts at JR East Network locations.
  • Link with Shinkansen (bullet train) tickets for seamless travel.

Chapter 7: Choosing the Right Method for You

• If you live in Tokyo, consider using the Suica app for added benefits.
• For travelers, using Apple Wallet or Google Pay is quicker and easier, although it lacks a card number.
• If you need Shinkansen tickets, you can still reserve online and print them at the station.

Conclusion

Acquiring a Suica Card on your smartphone enhances your travel experience in Japan by simplifying payments. Whether you choose a physical card or a digital one via Apple Wallet or the Suica app, you’ll enjoy the convenience of cashless transactions throughout your journey. For your next steps, consider downloading the Suica app or Apple Wallet, and start exploring Japan with ease!