I am amazed that you put lots of effort and time to guide all the Travellers to Japan, including me. Those videos are so well recorded and presented and very to understand and follow. You and your wife are the ONLY ONE. Very kind kind people! BYW your daughter and son is adorable. Keep doing the good works that you and your wife like. The only question I have is: I want to take my wife to Hokkaido to see the 1st snow fall or the regular month in Winter that the snow will fall more oftenly? The reason is, she came from a hot & rainy seasons country, while enjoyed 7 years, 6 months long winter in Norway and I told her I loved every winter season in that 7 years. And my part, loving the country like Japan very very much, the scenery, the food, the cleanliness, the etiquette and last but not least the famous Cherry Blossom 🌸 and the golfen leaves 🍂 in Autumn, and want to take those awesome things in Japan offering. I am a novice photographer but very keen to learn. I am looking forward for your answer. Thank you for video clip and advices.
Thank you! It should be snowing in Hokkaido by December. But if you want to see it completely covered in snow, I recommend visiting in February. Our more recent trip was in February, and it was amazing. So much powdery snow. Here’s one of our videos on Hokkaido in winter: ruclips.net/video/qwpOI9alcJc/видео.htmlsi=5JpApqPJhB7_G5vy 🌸 Heidi
As always, your videos are a life saviour; it doesn't matter wich subject it is: is always helpful, clear and easy to understand. I will never get tired of saying that you guys need to be more recognized.
@@GG-tr2xe as someone who's currently sorting through a deceased loved ones belongings that applies to many things. Might as well keep it if means something to you. Not everything has to be passed on to someone.
SUICA is back for regular sale since the start of this year, but unlike before where you could get them out of machines at every JR station. Now they are limited to be sold only at the big main stations in Tokyo that have JRE travel center offices. Think: Tokyo, Shinjuku, Shibuya, Ueno, Ikebukuro, Shinagawa and Narita. (keep in mind the Narita JRE travel center has giant queues always so you might wanna skip getting a card until you're in central Tokyo) If you're flying into Tokyo, get the regular SUICA, not the Welcome one. The regular SUICA is for all intents and purposes valid indefinitely (have to use it once per 10 years to renew; i still use my 2008 purchased SUICA to this day) so you can use it for your next trip, or pass it on to a friend/family member. You can also refund your balance, and/or the card entirely (Which is 500 yen deposit you paid for it) if you have money left and/or know you won't re-use the card in any way.
@@miraxterrikWhere did you find it? I keep searching them i can't find online. I try to look, but it sold out. There's a lot at ebay but is too expensive
Thank you for the useful info. I have all 3 digital cards and top it up to 20,000 yen to take advantage of the favorable exchange rate. Unfortunately, the digital card max top up is 20,000 yen. I find Mastercard usually works without problem.
Also a clear disclaimer, the mobile version of the Suica cards will NOT work if you have a Visa card in your Apple Wallet. You must have a non-Visa card like Mastercard or American Express for the mobile version to work properly. Also, if you have a physical card, DO NOT (again, DO NOT) transfer it to a digital card because doing so will render your physical card invalid, which will legitimately make it e-waste.
I added a Suica card to my Apple Wallet and was able to add money to it with my Visa card. But I have not yet used it. Are you saying that we can add money to it but not use it to get on the trains?
@@canIsee I’m currently in Japan for vacation right now and we have been adding money on the IC digital card with our visa credit card. Haven’t had any problems yet.
We are currently in Japan arrived last 05/30 and leaving this 06/20. We had a great time from Osaka, Kobe, Kyoto, Nagoya & Tokyo. We followed all of your advices like renting Pocket WiFi that works even under the train stations and we purchased also the Suica Card for buses, purchases of almost anything and train stations. Thank you for your help for first time travelers to Japan.🙏
@@KenshoQuest how do you get the Fuujin and Raijin card? Is it from the machine where you can select your design or do you have to go see a person who needs to confirm that you are a tourist?
Hope you’ve had a nice trip in Japan. I’m traveling next month landing in KIX as well, will spend 2 nights in Osaka and 3 nights in Kyoto. Which card did you end up using?
Thanks for the video :) It'll be very helpful for my travel to Japan this September :) I really hope to get one of those Fuujin Raijin ICOCA's they look so amazing 😍
Thanks Kensho Quest for your guides in Japan. We got 8 pasmo cards in Haneda when we arrived in June 9, 2024. No pasmo passport though. Not sure how this will last.
Thanks for the tip. My family bought Named Suica cards from Ueno station machine right after Japan reopened in 2022, and it only expires 10 years after your last rail or bus trip in Japan. Another advantage of Named Suica cards is the value is transferable to another Named card. Good to know we can use it in the Kansai + Nagoya regions. It's a bummer that the JR Pass is so expensive now so we may just pay for our Shinkansen rides without a Regional pass since our upcoming Nagoya - Kyoto - Osaka is spread over 14 days.
just returned from a 14 day trip to the area and picked up 3 suica cards at Tokyo Station. The CSR reps there were super helpful! The odd thing is we wanted the Welcome Suica card but they weren't available and we also had a child in our party and a child suica card wasn't available.
Thank you so much. At the start of my trip 2 june i got a pasmo at narita airport, but really wanted a suica and i needed it longer then 28 days. So I saw this comment and went to a JR east service center at Tokyo Station and yes I got a regular Suica. 😃
I’m going to Tokyo at the end of August for the first time and landing in Narita. You said the Welcome Suica is not available there, the regular Suica may not be available, and the Passmo Passport is being discontinued in August. Now I’m a bit concerned because I don’t know what will be available and where to look once I land in the airport.
Hi, I understand your concern. Please do not worry as the PASMO Passport is supposed to be replaced by the regular PASMO. We will make an update as we get close to August as this is a big concern for both Suica and PASMO.
as of july the welcome suica card is only sold in Narita and Haneda Airport according to their website. Im gonna land there on the 3rd of september and see if theyre available
Thank you so much for the amazing explanations, your videos are truly life saving. I've got one question regarding the travel between different areas, how does one know if the trip they take is going to change areas?are there any signs in the stations?
Hi, great question! In some places there are clear signs but in most there will not be any signs. Therefore, if you have traveled a long distance ( more than across town ) consider tapping out of the gate first if you need to make a train change. Don't worry if you don't as the gates won't let you pass if you did! There will be an attendant window at either the left or right sides of the exit gates, just see them.
Wish I'd seen this before my recent trip, as I love the design of that limited edition ICOCA, and I had a few hrs at Kansai Airport before my flight back home....
Hi there, we will be travelling to Japan soon and your channel has been incredibly informative and so useful. Huge thanks from my family and myself! For the first time, we will be travelling outside of Tokyo and will be travelling between these cities Tokyo, Kanazawa, Osaka, Kyoto and Narita. We also intend to use the Apple/iPhone IC App. Based on the cities, which IC card do you recommend? Suica, Pasmo or Icoca?
Another excellent video! I downloaded the digital SUICA card on my iPhone but assumed that was it, and had to spent 45 minutes in the drizzle at a tram stop in Hiroshima (our first port of call) getting the card set up properly. So get this sorted out before your arrival in Japan - it may involve checking your mobile phone settings as well as preferred credit card activations before it works. But once it does, it's smooth sailing topping it up and using it at subway stations, convenience stores and drink vending machines.
Which city will you fly into? If you arrive in Tokyo, get Welcome SUICA or regular SUICA, if available. If you arrive in Osaka, get ICOCA. You only need to get one of the interoperable cards and then you can use it through Japan.
I found some onlines sites that sold the Welcome Suica online and event send it to your Home outside of Japan. I have recently purchase it this way and it should arrive next week.
@@KenshoQuest They have just arrived this morning to my home, in Madrid, it just took 4 days finally. It was fast and very cheap shipping costs. It was sent from France, where the online store is located.
I just checked my phone, apparently it's not compatible. Very sad. I'm going to be flying into Narita, so I'll probably try for a Welcome Suica. I checked the website, and it said it's available there.
Can you buy and top off IC cards with Visa? One of your videos mentioned that topping off was considered a cash withdrawal for Visa and additional fees would be incurred - is that still the case?
Hi, you can buy some physical IC cards with Visa but you cannot charge them with any type of credit card. If you have a digital IC card and want to charge your digital IC card with Visa you can but as far as it considered a cash withdrawal it depends on the card. Please contact your card issuer to find out. We now only use our Apple Card to charge our digital IC cards since they do not charge any fees.
Hey, we just got to Japan yesterday. Thought I share my own experience here. I initially installed digital ICOCA but was not able top up using Wise Visa. However, no problems with Suica.
ive heard the Fujin and Raijin Card isnt available anymore after the Corona chaos. i am there in a few days and would ride down there to get one but not if its unclear if i get one.
i’m flying into tokyo next week and unfortunately won’t be able to get the ltd edition ICOCA card from Kansai, however i will be in Osaka on sunday 15th and if any kind soul could get one for me i’ll trade food & drink for it 😅😅 looooove the design!
@@KenshoQuest no worries! And that was as of earlier this year, so they might have changed or will change. Keep making great content and enjoying life!
Thanks, this is handy. As I'm planning to fly into Osaka and depart Tokyo, it seems the Icoca is the one I need. I have an Android phone, so a good excuse to get the special Icoca card 😉
Thanks for sharing! I am having trouble to add suica and pasmo card in apple wallet using Visa payment. Checked online a lot of people are having same trouble not only add new card but top up existing card with varities of credit cards. Not sure how to solve this.
👋 Try the Apple Master Card. Used it for Suica IC digital on my iPhone in April. Was Perfect! Just linked it for a Shinkansen trip in 2 weeks on the EX App. 👍
Hi, we agree. We understand that it requires getting another credit card but the Apple Card ( Mastercard ) works every time for us. Many have trouble with Visa, not just for topping up your digital IC card but using your credit card online for many Japanese companies you will run into issues. Apple Card usually works.
Thank you for the informations. I am planning to arrive to Kansai International Airport as I will start my trip from Osaka to Tokyo, I would really appreciate if you did a video about the airport it self, I been trying to find guidelines for it but I couldn't find one.
Very helpful. Great in detail of IC cards. We had experience with suica that only a "MasterCard" would be able to top up in the app. Do we have any other travel card with option of loading by "visa" cards?
Hi. Visa didn’t work for a long time, but we’ve heard of people being able to use Visa with digital Suica recently. We haven’t personally tried. You could try and see if anything has changed. 🌸 Heidi
I will go to Japan for the first time in the next 2 weeks. But unfortunately, apple wallet is not supported in my home country 😢 so I cannot prepare before my arrival. Idk whether I can use it or not later in Japan since my iphone is registered in my home country.
Hi, if you are asking about getting an IC card it will be hard to get one in Yokohama and even in Tokyo. You might have to purchase individual paper tickets to ride the trains and buses. Once you stop in places like Shizuoka, Nagoya or anywhere farther south you will be able to get one of the IC cards mentioned in the video based on region. Ticket offices or vending machines at JR Stations might be the easiest place.
Hi, last year I was in Japan and a Taiwanese friend used an IC card to store data for a video game at a GIGO center. Basically he stored his rewards on his card and could then retrieve the data at a different center. I'm traveling next month and would like to be able to do the same. Can I buy the Pasmo or Suica as a foreigner? I don't mind paying the cost of the card.
Hi, yes, you certainly can purchase your own PASMO or Suica IC card. However, most likely you will need to get a registered card, which happens to be the ones that are currently available. You will need to either visit a JR ticket office or PASMO office and present your passport.
While the special ICOCA card at Kansai looks great and would make a great souvenir, immigration and customs is VERY slow at Kansai from personal experience. 😅
Hi, really enjoy your videos, so informative, thank you. I have a question - once we leave the airport with our IC cards (we need 4 physical cards as our kids don't have phones yet 10&12), are there loads of options to recharge the card? Thanks again for all you videos.
Hi, yes in every station, except for the tiniest ones you will find charging machines. Also, at 7-11, familymarts near stations most you can charge there as well.
Great update, thanks. For those of us arriving at Narita after August 2024, do you think it's worth trying to obtain a card before we travel, given how hard it's getting to source IC cards in Tokyo?
Hi, if you are arriving in Osaka, Kansai region, then get the ICOCA. If you arrive in Tokyo then get either a PASMO or Suica. Any of the 10 discussed in the video will work.
Some advice please. We fly into Haneda and then catch a domestic flight to Takamatsu. I think I read somewhere, perhaps one of your videos that you have to first use an IC in the home area, eg if you buy a Suica then it has to be used once in Tokyo before using it in another area, say in Osaka or Kyoto. If this is the case then I think we would have to buy a ICOCA card as we will be going to Osaka, then Kyoto and finally Tokyo.
Hi, sorry if we caused some confusion. You can purchase any of the 10 IC cards mentioned in the video and they will work. If you buy the Suica you do not need to first use it in Tokyo, it will work fine in Osaka.
Hi, thank you for sharing the info. I will be visiting Japan Sept. 29th arriving in Narita and will need to take transportation to Tokyo. Which best (price wise) if by train, which card would you recommend? Will be back to Narita on Oct. 3rd. It's going to be a short trip. I have friend in Kobe so most likely will hangout around Kobe, Osaka, Nara & Kyoto.
Hi. No, they do not need an IC card to ride local transportation. Children 5 years old and younger can ride for free with an adult, up to 2 kids per adult. 🌸 Heidi
Hi there, my wife and I will fly into Naha first, spend a few days then fly to Sapporo and stay a few days then fly to Osaka for 2 nights before flying back to Singapore. Which card should we buy? We prefer to use physical cards. Thanks
Hi, first, love your itinerary! Since you are first flying into Naha, you probably won't be able to get one of the 10 interoperable IC cards mentioned in this video. Okinawa has their own IC card ( OKICA ) that is probably only accepted in Okinawa. So you will need to decide if you want to get the OKICA card or wait until you arrive in Sapporo and get the KITACA or SUICA - both of these cards are accepted throughout Japan, meaning the will also work fine in the Osaka/Kyoto areas.
Oh my! I have the regular Icoca already but it looks like I'm about to get another one this August! Go Fuujin and Raijin! Does the Fuujin Raijin card expire? Regular Icoca is 10 years of non use, so I was told.
Hi and thank you for your videos, they have helped me relax for my trip in a few days. However, I am staying long term for work and I notice your videos hardly ever touch on what to do if you are staying long term. So with this card, I will work in Chiba and travel to Tokyo often, which card is better? I am already lost. LOL! Thanks again for the tips.
Hi, want to get a regular Suica or PASMO if possible since the tourist versions of both expire after 28 days. If you have an iPhone you can get either the digital Suica, PASMO or ICOCA. It doesn't matter which one you get, they will all work fine in the Tokyo area including Chiba.
Hi, I don't think it can, the reason being the Welcome Suica is a temporary card only valid for 28 days. So even if it could it would be time sensitive. You are better off just creating a new one from the Apple Wallet.
I think some of the Welcome SUICA Ticket Vending Machines at the airport accept credit card for purchasing the card and putting the initial balance. After that, recharging the card is done with cash. 🌸 Heidi
Hi, any of the 10 will work fine in either Tokyo or Osaka. If you are arriving in Tokyo, then the Suica or Pasmo IC cards will be available to you. They should be back in full production by 2025.
Really useful info! Informative and clear. I've got a Kansai One Pass a few years ago. Do you think the pass would work as a normal transport IC in Tokyo and Nagoya area? Would be such a waste to buy another card. Thanks!
I’ve never had any issues with my digital PASMO. Sometimes I recharge it right at the ticket gate if the balance isn’t enough, and that’s quick to do. 🌸 Heidi
The IC shortage makes all of this a crapshoot. I fear that when I land at Narita in September there will be no cards available to buy (and I have an Android phone). Then what??
Hi, this is a tough question that probably only specific JR companies would know the answer! However, I don't think you need to worry much as most likely if you will be entering a different zone you will need to either change stations or have to exit a ticket gate. In the Shizuoka area you are in JR Central territory where you can get Toica or Manaca. But if you start from Tokyo you can get the Suica or Pasmo ( or their tourist versions ). It doesn't matter which one of these IC cards you get, they will all work in the Shizuoka area.
I have 6 or 7 physical SUICA cards (large family, multiple visits). BUT if you can get a digital version, I strongly recommend you use digital. It will save you a lot of time trying to top up your card with cash (trust me, will become a pain the more cards you have). 6:35 can’t you just fare adjust? I’ve never had this issue to give you an idea how unusual this is but I guess if you are doing long journeys all the time.
Did you try installing the digital IC cards directly through Apple Wallet? (Not through the App Store) You may need to update the language settings on your phone. In order for some Japanese apps to translate fully to English, the Language setting on your phone should be set to "English" AND the region set to "United States".
@@KenshoQuest You are correct. Googled after leaving the message and then figured it out. Have read though that reloading by Visa in Wallet may not work. Probably just reload at the machine with cash. Thank you.
Hello, which one will you recommend to get? We plan to go to Osaka, Kyoto, Hiroshima and then Tokyo as last destination. Which digital ic cards should we buy? I was thinking about Suica. Since we want to go to Miyajima as well and want to make sure it won’t get rejected. Thank you.
Hi. If you’re getting a digital IC card you can get any of the 3, it doesn’t matter. If you will get a physical plastic card, you can get ICOCA in Osaka. 🌸 Heidi
@@KenshoQuest thank you for your answer. My partner doesn’t have an iPhone. Is it still possible to purchase the physical icoca card at kansai airport?
Can I used ICOCA in Tokyo? I am visiting Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto. Let me know what card should I buy and where I can I buy it? Is it also cheaper than buying regular fare tickets?
Hi, yes you can :) The IC cards available depends on where you arrive. If Tokyo then the Suica and Pasmo. BTW, the Suica will be back in full production in the fall, so hopefully they will be readily available. If you arrive in Osaka then the ICOCA. You can buy these at JR train stations or JR ticket offices at the airport. IC cards are slightly cheaper than regular tickets.
Hi there, can I buy the digital Suica card for my husband and two children on one phone? My husband uses Android, and I’m afraid it won’t work for him.
He will need to get his own separate plastic IC card. You can’t use one phone for more than one person, to pay for public transportation. Kids ages 6-11 years old qualify for Child Suica, so they pay half the adult fare. Child Suica cards are only available in the plastic form. Here’s our video on getting a child card: ruclips.net/video/BbvQurJdOnc/видео.htmlsi=OGfaD-S5H31Cqmod
For anyone considering a digital IC card, the PASMO has worked great for me. For any of the digital IC cards, the best way to find the English version is to install the card directly through Apple Wallet rather than visiting the App Store. Also, for any Japanese app that’s not translating completely, it’s important to set the phone settings to Language “English” and Region “United States”. If the region is set to somewhere else the app may not translate completely. 🌸 Heidi
@@KenshoQuestthank you for helping. I was just about to come back and add on to my first comment. I ended up using it through apple wallet, not the app. It works. Thanks for the tip about iPhone settings. The videos have been great. I did send you a thanks.
Nice video but I kind of disagree with calling the physical IC cards “e-waste” as you can use them again. Despite the features of digital IC cards like they can be directly charged on the device I still prefer physical cards as they just feel more convenient and just feels more comfortable in general. You don’t get that same satisfying and safe feeling with digital cards. If you want an real example of e-waste and plastic waste see the visitor 28 day cards for example. Despite using the same components and chips, these cards are only valid for 28 days and after they expire they basically become trash and useless unless if you want to keep it as a souvenir but those cards are the real definition of e-waste. I say this as a person who is highly passionate about the environment.
Thanks for video!! I have read somewhere that there are machines fo exchange a great number of coins (in Japan is common to have to carry A LOT of small coins) into IC cards or digital tokens... they are generic ones and are specialized with coins, maybe also with foreign coins (I need to confirm this fact), can You tell more about this please?
Hi, I read that Shinkansen train tickets can also be used locally. How can we know where we can use the Shinkansen tickets within city and not spend from IC card unneccessrily. Would really help me if you would answer this...
Wow i'm landing in Kansai airport so lucky me i guess, does this special icoca card cost any extra? And if i'm at the kansai area for two weeks should i also buy the kansai one pass?
Hi, no extra charge for any specialty IC card. Just remember, it may only be available at the JR kansai Station, which is at the airport. You do not need the kansai one pass since it is also a regular IC Card. Unless you are also interested in some of their additional perks, then it might be of interest.
Hello. Thank you so much for producing informative videos. I will be visiting Osaka and Kyoto in the fall and plan on using the digital Icoca card. Can I use this card to purchase tickets for the Hello Kitty airport train shuttle from Kansai to Kyoto? Or will I have to visit a ticketing machine at the airport and buy paper tickets for the airport train shuttle? Thanks.
Hi, since this is a limited express train you will most likely need to purchase directly from the ticket machine which means you can pay by cash or most likely credit card ( depending on the machine you use ). Probably not with your digital ICOCA. You can get a discount too: www.westjr.co.jp/global/en/ticket/pass/one_way/haruka/
My wife and I used a 14-day pass twice already since the price increase. We went from Sapporo to Nagasaki and made a few stops in between. Got our money's worth.
This video needs to be a must-watch for all those who travel to Japan! Kudos to the Kensho Quest team!!!
Thanks!
I am amazed that you put lots of effort and time to guide all the Travellers to Japan, including me. Those videos are so well recorded and presented and very to understand and follow.
You and your wife are the ONLY ONE. Very kind kind people!
BYW your daughter and son is adorable.
Keep doing the good works that you and your wife like.
The only question I have is: I want to take my wife to Hokkaido to see the 1st snow fall or the regular month in Winter that the snow will fall more oftenly? The reason is, she came from a hot & rainy seasons country, while enjoyed 7 years, 6 months long winter in Norway and I told her I loved every winter season in that 7 years. And my part, loving the country like Japan very very much, the scenery, the food, the cleanliness, the etiquette and last but not least the famous Cherry Blossom 🌸 and the golfen leaves 🍂 in Autumn, and want to take those awesome things in Japan offering. I am a novice photographer but very keen to learn.
I am looking forward for your answer.
Thank you for video clip and advices.
Thank you! It should be snowing in Hokkaido by December. But if you want to see it completely covered in snow, I recommend visiting in February. Our more recent trip was in February, and it was amazing. So much powdery snow. Here’s one of our videos on Hokkaido in winter: ruclips.net/video/qwpOI9alcJc/видео.htmlsi=5JpApqPJhB7_G5vy 🌸 Heidi
June 2024 I was able to get 3 Suica cards for myself and daughters at Narita airport.
Awesome! Thanks for sharing.
As always, your videos are a life saviour; it doesn't matter wich subject it is: is always helpful, clear and easy to understand.
I will never get tired of saying that you guys need to be more recognized.
Thank you so much!
@@KenshoQuest You are always verte welcome ^^
Love the astro boy card !! We still have our suica cards from 5 years ago , we use them when we come back 😊
Cards have a 10 year expiry so you're good 👍 I use android but if you use an iPhone can use digital app to top up cards.
Not all cards. The Kansai One Pass doesn't have an expiration date for example.
'Cards' I meant Suica cards I was not talking about other cards as OP mentioned his Suica Card
I will be more specific next time 🙄
@@Herr.Mitternacht the Astro Boy Kansai One Pass says on it's rear side that it will expire 10 years after the last use.
It's not a waste if you're keeping it and not throwing it in the garbage, it'd make a nice edition to anyone's scrapbook for example.
Yeah but how many people are actually doing that.
The problem is, when u pass on, someone will be throwing it away for u
I have my pasmo card since 2012 and i am going to use the same card next year on my 5th japan holiday.
Yes! My plan is to get each card I can at least once 😊 I want to frame them, hahaha 😅
@@GG-tr2xe as someone who's currently sorting through a deceased loved ones belongings that applies to many things. Might as well keep it if means something to you. Not everything has to be passed on to someone.
Your videos offer invaluable information for our upcoming trip to Japan in the Fall. Thank you!
You're welcome! Have a wonderful time in Japan!
The PiTaPa card is not for tourists because unlike other IC cards, it's a debit card linked to a Japanese bank account.
Thanks for explaining.
SUICA is back for regular sale since the start of this year, but unlike before where you could get them out of machines at every JR station. Now they are limited to be sold only at the big main stations in Tokyo that have JRE travel center offices. Think: Tokyo, Shinjuku, Shibuya, Ueno, Ikebukuro, Shinagawa and Narita. (keep in mind the Narita JRE travel center has giant queues always so you might wanna skip getting a card until you're in central Tokyo) If you're flying into Tokyo, get the regular SUICA, not the Welcome one. The regular SUICA is for all intents and purposes valid indefinitely (have to use it once per 10 years to renew; i still use my 2008 purchased SUICA to this day) so you can use it for your next trip, or pass it on to a friend/family member. You can also refund your balance, and/or the card entirely (Which is 500 yen deposit you paid for it) if you have money left and/or know you won't re-use the card in any way.
The official website still says it's discontinued
Edit: i found a website that says it's back with limited stock. So let's see 😊
@@miraxterrikWhere did you find it? I keep searching them i can't find online. I try to look, but it sold out. There's a lot at ebay but is too expensive
@@Najerafamilyadventure my understanding is that you can only buy there in person, in some JR offices.
I updated right when I saw they didn't stretch the video to 10 minutes. Great job guys!
Going to Osaka next week😊 I hope the Fujin and Raijin card is still available
Thank you so much!! So much great information 😊
Glad it was helpful!
Thank you for the useful info. I have all 3 digital cards and top it up to 20,000 yen to take advantage of the favorable exchange rate. Unfortunately, the digital card max top up is 20,000 yen.
I find Mastercard usually works without problem.
@@docvern7 If credit card is used to top Digital IC card, does the credit card charge you fee as cash advance?
@@kelqe no. It’s charged as a regular purchase, not cash advance. Make sure to use a travel credit card with no foreign transaction fee.
I bought the Kansai One Pass in Osaka and used it without problem in Tokyo.
Thanks for sharing!
Also a clear disclaimer, the mobile version of the Suica cards will NOT work if you have a Visa card in your Apple Wallet. You must have a non-Visa card like Mastercard or American Express for the mobile version to work properly.
Also, if you have a physical card, DO NOT (again, DO NOT) transfer it to a digital card because doing so will render your physical card invalid, which will legitimately make it e-waste.
I added a Suica card to my Apple Wallet and was able to add money to it with my Visa card. But I have not yet used it. Are you saying that we can add money to it but not use it to get on the trains?
Also wondering…
@@canIsee I’m currently in Japan for vacation right now and we have been adding money on the IC digital card with our visa credit card. Haven’t had any problems yet.
@@VicBayolo I’m in Japan now and have had no problems with it either.
@@canIsee heck, my wife has been using it from her apple watch no problems as well lol
We are currently in Japan arrived last 05/30 and leaving this 06/20.
We had a great time from Osaka, Kobe, Kyoto, Nagoya & Tokyo.
We followed all of your advices like renting Pocket WiFi that works even under the train stations and we purchased also the Suica Card for buses, purchases of almost anything and train stations.
Thank you for your help for first time travelers to Japan.🙏
Hi, we are so happy to hear this! Thank you for sharing, we really appreciate it, Aloha 🤙🏼
Thank you for this video. We are planning to travel to Japan soon so this is very helpful.
Have a wonderful time in Japan!
Thank you! We are headed to Japan touring North to South for a month - your channel has been super useful ❤
Glad to have helped!
I was able to buy a Suica card at Naritia airpot on 24 June 2024. My colleague was also able to purchase one.
Thanks for the update!
We will travel to Japan next week and landing in Osaka. Will try to get our hands on the Fujin Raijin card 😊 Thanks for your content
That's awesome! They should have it at Kansai. Have a great trip!
Same here
@@KenshoQuest how do you get the Fuujin and Raijin card? Is it from the machine where you can select your design or do you have to go see a person who needs to confirm that you are a tourist?
@@dwaynedcruz1519 Hi, the only place this card is available is at the JR Ticket Office, Kansai Airport Station. So you need to visit this office.
Hope you’ve had a nice trip in Japan. I’m traveling next month landing in KIX as well, will spend 2 nights in Osaka and 3 nights in Kyoto. Which card did you end up using?
Thanks for the video :)
It'll be very helpful for my travel to Japan this September :)
I really hope to get one of those Fuujin Raijin ICOCA's they look so amazing 😍
Coming back to this video after 2 months since im going to go to japan tomorrow with a friend to get my unique icoca card :D
Exciting! Have a safe trip.
@@KenshoQuest thank you, looking forward to put my little Japanese knowledge to the test :'D
Thanks for this information!
Thank you for the info. It is good to know that in case the digital one fails, i can always get a paper one.
Glad to have helped. Yes, if the digital one doesn't work you can get a physical IC card instead.
Thanks Kensho Quest for your guides in Japan. We got 8 pasmo cards in Haneda when we arrived in June 9, 2024. No pasmo passport though. Not sure how this will last.
Thanks for letting us know!
Thanks for the tip. My family bought Named Suica cards from Ueno station machine right after Japan reopened in 2022, and it only expires 10 years after your last rail or bus trip in Japan. Another advantage of Named Suica cards is the value is transferable to another Named card. Good to know we can use it in the Kansai + Nagoya regions.
It's a bummer that the JR Pass is so expensive now so we may just pay for our Shinkansen rides without a Regional pass since our upcoming Nagoya - Kyoto - Osaka is spread over 14 days.
Thanks for adding that! Yeah, the JR Pass isn't the amazing deal it once was.
What IC card shall I get if I will be traveling in Tokyo and Kyoto areas? Thank you for all your information and making Japan travel less stressful 😁
If you arrive in Tokyo, get the Welcome SUICA (or regular SUICA, if available). If you arrive in Osaka/Kyoto area, get the ICOCA card.
@@KenshoQuest Thanks. Will be I able to use SUICA card in Kyoto? I will start my travels in Tokyo and going to Kyoto after.
@@irinaphillips8962 Yes
just returned from a 14 day trip to the area and picked up 3 suica cards at Tokyo Station. The CSR reps there were super helpful! The odd thing is we wanted the Welcome Suica card but they weren't available and we also had a child in our party and a child suica card wasn't available.
Thanks for sharing this update!
Thank you so much. At the start of my trip 2 june i got a pasmo at narita airport, but really wanted a suica and i needed it longer then 28 days. So I saw this comment and went to a JR east service center at Tokyo Station and yes I got a regular Suica. 😃
Thanks for the information. Very informative. 👍👍
You're welcome!
Thank you for the tip🙏🏼
I’m going to Tokyo at the end of August for the first time and landing in Narita. You said the Welcome Suica is not available there, the regular Suica may not be available, and the Passmo Passport is being discontinued in August. Now I’m a bit concerned because I don’t know what will be available and where to look once I land in the airport.
Hi, I understand your concern. Please do not worry as the PASMO Passport is supposed to be replaced by the regular PASMO. We will make an update as we get close to August as this is a big concern for both Suica and PASMO.
as of july the welcome suica card is only sold in Narita and Haneda Airport according to their website.
Im gonna land there on the 3rd of september and see if theyre available
Thank you so much for the amazing explanations, your videos are truly life saving. I've got one question regarding the travel between different areas, how does one know if the trip they take is going to change areas?are there any signs in the stations?
Hi, great question! In some places there are clear signs but in most there will not be any signs. Therefore, if you have traveled a long distance ( more than across town ) consider tapping out of the gate first if you need to make a train change. Don't worry if you don't as the gates won't let you pass if you did! There will be an attendant window at either the left or right sides of the exit gates, just see them.
All you need is the ICOCA card. I live here and it's all I use.
@@calikalbocalikalbo6082to including anywhere in Tokyo, right? Thanks
@@evelinaliao7012 ....Yup
We're arriving at KIX in 2 weeks to begin our Japan holiday. We intend to get ICOCA.
I just came back from Japan a couple of days ago. We went to osaka and when I got off at KIX, I got an icoca card from the machine no problems.
Perfect! Thanks for sharing.
Wish I'd seen this before my recent trip, as I love the design of that limited edition ICOCA, and I had a few hrs at Kansai Airport before my flight back home....
Sorry you missed getting one!
Hi there, we will be travelling to Japan soon and your channel has been incredibly informative and so useful. Huge thanks from my family and myself! For the first time, we will be travelling outside of Tokyo and will be travelling between these cities Tokyo, Kanazawa, Osaka, Kyoto and Narita. We also intend to use the Apple/iPhone IC App. Based on the cities, which IC card do you recommend? Suica, Pasmo or Icoca?
Hi. For digital IC card you can choose any of the three. It doesn’t make much difference. I have a digital PASMO on my iPhone. 🌸 Heidi
@@KenshoQuest Thank you so much for your reply!
Got a Welcome Suica card at Narita Airport Station just a few days ago
Thanks for the update!
Another excellent video! I downloaded the digital SUICA card on my iPhone but assumed that was it, and had to spent 45 minutes in the drizzle at a tram stop in Hiroshima (our first port of call) getting the card set up properly. So get this sorted out before your arrival in Japan - it may involve checking your mobile phone settings as well as preferred credit card activations before it works. But once it does, it's smooth sailing topping it up and using it at subway stations, convenience stores and drink vending machines.
Glad you got it figured out and thanks for sharing valuable information!
OK I watched the whole video but found it a little confusing. Can you please tell me which IC cards I will need for Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto? Thanks!
Any of them.
Which city will you fly into? If you arrive in Tokyo, get Welcome SUICA or regular SUICA, if available. If you arrive in Osaka, get ICOCA. You only need to get one of the interoperable cards and then you can use it through Japan.
I have got also a nimoca I believe since 2014. ;)
You guys are incredible with info! Wish it wasn't this confusing for travel and or avail for android
Sorry it's confusing. Just buy whichever IC card is available when you arrive in Japan, as long as it's one of the major 10 IC cards.
I found some onlines sites that sold the Welcome Suica online and event send it to your Home outside of Japan. I have recently purchase it this way and it should arrive next week.
Awesome. Let us know how that works out.
@@KenshoQuest They have just arrived this morning to my home, in Madrid, it just took 4 days finally. It was fast and very cheap shipping costs. It was sent from France, where the online store is located.
I just checked my phone, apparently it's not compatible. Very sad. I'm going to be flying into Narita, so I'll probably try for a Welcome Suica. I checked the website, and it said it's available there.
Can you buy and top off IC cards with Visa? One of your videos mentioned that topping off was considered a cash withdrawal for Visa and additional fees would be incurred - is that still the case?
Hi, you can buy some physical IC cards with Visa but you cannot charge them with any type of credit card. If you have a digital IC card and want to charge your digital IC card with Visa you can but as far as it considered a cash withdrawal it depends on the card. Please contact your card issuer to find out. We now only use our Apple Card to charge our digital IC cards since they do not charge any fees.
Hey, we just got to Japan yesterday. Thought I share my own experience here. I initially installed digital ICOCA but was not able top up using Wise Visa. However, no problems with Suica.
ive heard the Fujin and Raijin Card isnt available anymore after the Corona chaos. i am there in a few days and would ride down there to get one but not if its unclear if i get one.
i’m flying into tokyo next week and unfortunately won’t be able to get the ltd edition ICOCA card from Kansai, however i will be in Osaka on sunday 15th and if any kind soul could get one for me i’ll trade food & drink for it 😅😅 looooove the design!
The pasmo card is the one to get as it is the only card that you can put the 24 hour Tokyo metro pass on.
Interesting! Thanks for sharing.
@@KenshoQuest no worries! And that was as of earlier this year, so they might have changed or will change. Keep making great content and enjoying life!
I buy Pasmo card😊
Thanks, this is handy. As I'm planning to fly into Osaka and depart Tokyo, it seems the Icoca is the one I need. I have an Android phone, so a good excuse to get the special Icoca card 😉
Good plan!
Thanks for sharing! I am having trouble to add suica and pasmo card in apple wallet using Visa payment. Checked online a lot of people are having same trouble not only add new card but top up existing card with varities of credit cards. Not sure how to solve this.
👋 Try the Apple Master Card. Used it for Suica IC digital on my iPhone in April. Was Perfect! Just linked it for a Shinkansen trip in 2 weeks on the EX App. 👍
Hi, we agree. We understand that it requires getting another credit card but the Apple Card ( Mastercard ) works every time for us. Many have trouble with Visa, not just for topping up your digital IC card but using your credit card online for many Japanese companies you will run into issues. Apple Card usually works.
Crazy how they don't have those apps for Android phones.
great video thanks mate
Glad you enjoyed it!
Thank you for the informations. I am planning to arrive to Kansai International Airport as I will start my trip from Osaka to Tokyo, I would really appreciate if you did a video about the airport it self, I been trying to find guidelines for it but I couldn't find one.
Thanks for the suggestion! We'll make a video next time we fly into Kansai, but it might be a while.
Very helpful. Great in detail of IC cards. We had experience with suica that only a "MasterCard" would be able to top up in the app. Do we have any other travel card with option of loading by "visa" cards?
Hi. Visa didn’t work for a long time, but we’ve heard of people being able to use Visa with digital Suica recently. We haven’t personally tried. You could try and see if anything has changed. 🌸 Heidi
I will go to Japan for the first time in the next 2 weeks. But unfortunately, apple wallet is not supported in my home country 😢 so I cannot prepare before my arrival. Idk whether I can use it or not later in Japan since my iphone is registered in my home country.
Sorry about that. In that case it’s best to get a plastic IC card when you arrive in Japan.
Any suggestions for people going on a 12 day cruise across Japan? Starting and ending in Yokohama, but visiting all around the country
Hi, if you are asking about getting an IC card it will be hard to get one in Yokohama and even in Tokyo. You might have to purchase individual paper tickets to ride the trains and buses. Once you stop in places like Shizuoka, Nagoya or anywhere farther south you will be able to get one of the IC cards mentioned in the video based on region. Ticket offices or vending machines at JR Stations might be the easiest place.
Do you have any updates on Suica or Pasmo availability?
Hi, last year I was in Japan and a Taiwanese friend used an IC card to store data for a video game at a GIGO center. Basically he stored his rewards on his card and could then retrieve the data at a different center. I'm traveling next month and would like to be able to do the same. Can I buy the Pasmo or Suica as a foreigner? I don't mind paying the cost of the card.
Hi, yes, you certainly can purchase your own PASMO or Suica IC card. However, most likely you will need to get a registered card, which happens to be the ones that are currently available. You will need to either visit a JR ticket office or PASMO office and present your passport.
While the special ICOCA card at Kansai looks great and would make a great souvenir, immigration and customs is VERY slow at Kansai from personal experience. 😅
Thanks for sharing!
Can i use suica welcome also in other places not in Tokyo? ( kyoto/ osaka )
Yes
Hi, really enjoy your videos, so informative, thank you. I have a question - once we leave the airport with our IC cards (we need 4 physical cards as our kids don't have phones yet 10&12), are there loads of options to recharge the card? Thanks again for all you videos.
Yes, there are Charging Machines at train stations, and you can also re-charge at 7-Elevens.
Hi, yes in every station, except for the tiniest ones you will find charging machines. Also, at 7-11, familymarts near stations most you can charge there as well.
Im looking for a travel agent for japan trip next year. Can you recommend any
Hi, JTB is probably the most reputable when it comes to Japan: www.jtbusa.com/
Great update, thanks.
For those of us arriving at Narita after August 2024, do you think it's worth trying to obtain a card before we travel, given how hard it's getting to source IC cards in Tokyo?
If you can get a digital IC card, I'd do that. Otherwise just wait until arriving in Japan to see what is available.🌸 Heidi
Is the Pasmo digital Ic card work for JR lines?
Yes!
Im travelling to kyoto, osaka, kanazawa and tokyo. What card do we need?
Hi, if you are arriving in Osaka, Kansai region, then get the ICOCA. If you arrive in Tokyo then get either a PASMO or Suica. Any of the 10 discussed in the video will work.
Some advice please. We fly into Haneda and then catch a domestic flight to Takamatsu. I think I read somewhere, perhaps one of your videos that you have to first use an IC in the home area, eg if you buy a Suica then it has to be used once in Tokyo before using it in another area, say in Osaka or Kyoto. If this is the case then I think we would have to buy a ICOCA card as we will be going to Osaka, then Kyoto and finally Tokyo.
Hi, sorry if we caused some confusion. You can purchase any of the 10 IC cards mentioned in the video and they will work. If you buy the Suica you do not need to first use it in Tokyo, it will work fine in Osaka.
Hi, thank you for sharing the info. I will be visiting Japan Sept. 29th arriving in Narita and will need to take transportation to Tokyo. Which best (price wise) if by train, which card would you recommend? Will be back to Narita on Oct. 3rd. It's going to be a short trip. I have friend in Kobe so most likely will hangout around Kobe, Osaka, Nara & Kyoto.
Hi, please watch this video as it goes into details about the best ways into Tokto from Narita: ruclips.net/video/2T4E4pfhIyI/видео.html
we are going to be in tokyo/kyoto/osaka/nagoya and then back to tokyo. which card is best for us? thank you!
If you’re starting in Tokyo, Suica card.
My kids are 5 and 3 yrs old . Do they need a IC card when traveling on public transport?
Hi. No, they do not need an IC card to ride local transportation. Children 5 years old and younger can ride for free with an adult, up to 2 kids per adult. 🌸 Heidi
I want the AstroBoy IC card!
Hi there, my wife and I will fly into Naha first, spend a few days then fly to Sapporo and stay a few days then fly to Osaka for 2 nights before flying back to Singapore. Which card should we buy? We prefer to use physical cards. Thanks
Hi, first, love your itinerary! Since you are first flying into Naha, you probably won't be able to get one of the 10 interoperable IC cards mentioned in this video. Okinawa has their own IC card ( OKICA ) that is probably only accepted in Okinawa. So you will need to decide if you want to get the OKICA card or wait until you arrive in Sapporo and get the KITACA or SUICA - both of these cards are accepted throughout Japan, meaning the will also work fine in the Osaka/Kyoto areas.
thanks for your expert advice
Oh my! I have the regular Icoca already but it looks like I'm about to get another one this August! Go Fuujin and Raijin! Does the Fuujin Raijin card expire? Regular Icoca is 10 years of non use, so I was told.
Hi, it’s the same as a regular ICOCA, so 10 years as well!
Hi and thank you for your videos, they have helped me relax for my trip in a few days. However, I am staying long term for work and I notice your videos hardly ever touch on what to do if you are staying long term. So with this card, I will work in Chiba and travel to Tokyo often, which card is better? I am already lost. LOL! Thanks again for the tips.
Hi, want to get a regular Suica or PASMO if possible since the tourist versions of both expire after 28 days. If you have an iPhone you can get either the digital Suica, PASMO or ICOCA. It doesn't matter which one you get, they will all work fine in the Tokyo area including Chiba.
Can physical welcome Suica card be registered as digital card in Apple wallet ?
Hi, I don't think it can, the reason being the Welcome Suica is a temporary card only valid for 28 days. So even if it could it would be time sensitive. You are better off just creating a new one from the Apple Wallet.
Great video! Is it possible to pay for a Welcome Suica with a credit card at Haneda? If so, how?
I think some of the Welcome SUICA Ticket Vending Machines at the airport accept credit card for purchasing the card and putting the initial balance. After that, recharging the card is done with cash. 🌸 Heidi
@@KenshoQuest So, there's no way to top-up a Welcome Suica IC using a credit card at all?
@@markthibault8579 Not that I know of. That's the advantage of having a digital IC card.
@@KenshoQuest Yeah. I wish it was possible with Android.
Just wondering that my family have a trip in 2025, we are staying in Tokyo and just a day trip to Osaka, which card can be use for two area?
Hi, any of the 10 will work fine in either Tokyo or Osaka. If you are arriving in Tokyo, then the Suica or Pasmo IC cards will be available to you. They should be back in full production by 2025.
Really useful info! Informative and clear. I've got a Kansai One Pass a few years ago. Do you think the pass would work as a normal transport IC in Tokyo and Nagoya area? Would be such a waste to buy another card. Thanks!
Hi, it should work fine :)
@@KenshoQuest Thanks! 😃
Thanks for the video! Have you had any issues with digital IC cards? Any problems getting the NFC readers to detect them or anything like that?
I’ve never had any issues with my digital PASMO. Sometimes I recharge it right at the ticket gate if the balance isn’t enough, and that’s quick to do. 🌸 Heidi
The IC shortage makes all of this a crapshoot. I fear that when I land at Narita in September there will be no cards available to buy (and I have an Android phone). Then what??
Hopefully there will be something available. If not, you can always buy individual paper train tickets from the ticket vending machines.
what are the different IC zones we cannot cross? which IC card can i use on Shikoku? thank you!
Hi, this is a tough question that probably only specific JR companies would know the answer! However, I don't think you need to worry much as most likely if you will be entering a different zone you will need to either change stations or have to exit a ticket gate. In the Shizuoka area you are in JR Central territory where you can get Toica or Manaca. But if you start from Tokyo you can get the Suica or Pasmo ( or their tourist versions ). It doesn't matter which one of these IC cards you get, they will all work in the Shizuoka area.
@@KenshoQuest Thank you so much.
I have 6 or 7 physical SUICA cards (large family, multiple visits). BUT if you can get a digital version, I strongly recommend you use digital. It will save you a lot of time trying to top up your card with cash (trust me, will become a pain the more cards you have).
6:35 can’t you just fare adjust? I’ve never had this issue to give you an idea how unusual this is but I guess if you are doing long journeys all the time.
Digital IC are in Japanese! Both Suica and Pasmo.
Did you try installing the digital IC cards directly through Apple Wallet? (Not through the App Store) You may need to update the language settings on your phone. In order for some Japanese apps to translate fully to English, the Language setting on your phone should be set to "English" AND the region set to "United States".
@@KenshoQuest You are correct. Googled after leaving the message and then figured it out. Have read though that reloading by Visa in Wallet may not work. Probably just reload at the machine with cash. Thank you.
Any updates on IC cards for sale on Tokyo? Thanks
Can't believe tech nerds can't figure out a work around for Android users..
If you read through the comments, people have shared updates of where they were able to purchase IC cards in Tokyo.
so does the suica app work like a Hard copy?
Yes
Hello, which one will you recommend to get? We plan to go to Osaka, Kyoto, Hiroshima and then Tokyo as last destination.
Which digital ic cards should we buy? I was thinking about Suica. Since we want to go to Miyajima as well and want to make sure it won’t get rejected.
Thank you.
Hi. If you’re getting a digital IC card you can get any of the 3, it doesn’t matter. If you will get a physical plastic card, you can get ICOCA in Osaka. 🌸 Heidi
@@KenshoQuest thank you for your answer. My partner doesn’t have an iPhone. Is it still possible to purchase the physical icoca card at kansai airport?
@@jejakayu8154 Yes!
Can I used ICOCA in Tokyo? I am visiting Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto. Let me know what card should I buy and where I can I buy it? Is it also cheaper than buying regular fare tickets?
Hi, yes you can :) The IC cards available depends on where you arrive. If Tokyo then the Suica and Pasmo. BTW, the Suica will be back in full production in the fall, so hopefully they will be readily available. If you arrive in Osaka then the ICOCA. You can buy these at JR train stations or JR ticket offices at the airport. IC cards are slightly cheaper than regular tickets.
I still have my Suica card (the regular green one with the penguin) from 2018 and I planned on flying to Japan next month. Will it still be usable?
Yes. It’s valid for 10 years after last use.
Hi there, can I buy the digital Suica card for my husband and two children on one phone? My husband uses Android, and I’m afraid it won’t work for him.
He will need to get his own separate plastic IC card. You can’t use one phone for more than one person, to pay for public transportation. Kids ages 6-11 years old qualify for Child Suica, so they pay half the adult fare. Child Suica cards are only available in the plastic form. Here’s our video on getting a child card: ruclips.net/video/BbvQurJdOnc/видео.htmlsi=OGfaD-S5H31Cqmod
@@KenshoQuest thank you for the reply 🙌🏻
Silly question but I still have my Pasamo card from my last trip 7 years ago.
Can I still use it for my next trip?
Yes! As long as it has been used in 10 year period it will still be active.
Your cards should be good as long as the last time you used them was no more than 10 years ago. You should be fine with your Pasmo from 7 years ago.
Can I use suica virtual card in kansai region? or do I need icoca?
Yes. You can use digital Suica in Kansai.
Ohh so many ic cards, last week I was in japan. I only see Icoca and passmo /suica. Where can you get the others?
Watch the video to see!
Hi there’s a lot of bad reviews for paso digital. I’m not seeing an English option. Just relaying what I’m seeing.
For anyone considering a digital IC card, the PASMO has worked great for me. For any of the digital IC cards, the best way to find the English version is to install the card directly through Apple Wallet rather than visiting the App Store. Also, for any Japanese app that’s not translating completely, it’s important to set the phone settings to Language “English” and Region “United States”. If the region is set to somewhere else the app may not translate completely. 🌸 Heidi
@@KenshoQuestthank you for helping. I was just about to come back and add on to my first comment. I ended up using it through apple wallet, not the app. It works. Thanks for the tip about iPhone settings. The videos have been great. I did send you a thanks.
Nice video but I kind of disagree with calling the physical IC cards “e-waste” as you can use them again. Despite the features of digital IC cards like they can be directly charged on the device I still prefer physical cards as they just feel more convenient and just feels more comfortable in general. You don’t get that same satisfying and safe feeling with digital cards.
If you want an real example of e-waste and plastic waste see the visitor 28 day cards for example. Despite using the same components and chips, these cards are only valid for 28 days and after they expire they basically become trash and useless unless if you want to keep it as a souvenir but those cards are the real definition of e-waste. I say this as a person who is highly passionate about the environment.
Any update on why passmo passport is no longer being offered? Will it be brought back?
As far as we have heard, PASMO Passport is completely discontinued and only regular PASMO will be available from now on.
Thanks for video!!
I have read somewhere that there are machines fo exchange a great number of coins (in Japan is common to have to carry A LOT of small coins) into IC cards or digital tokens... they are generic ones and are specialized with coins, maybe also with foreign coins (I need to confirm this fact), can You tell more about this please?
I've heard of those machines, but haven't personally used them. Here's a website explaining: allabout-japan.com/en/article/8720/
Hi, I read that Shinkansen train tickets can also be used locally. How can we know where we can use the Shinkansen tickets within city and not spend from IC card unneccessrily. Would really help me if you would answer this...
Hi. Do you have a JR Pass to cover riding on Shinkansen trains?
Gidday, awesome info!! Is there an Android version of the Passmo or Suica cards?
Sorry, the digital IC cards are only available on Android phones that were purchased in Japan.
Wow i'm landing in Kansai airport so lucky me i guess, does this special icoca card cost any extra? And if i'm at the kansai area for two weeks should i also buy the kansai one pass?
Hi, no extra charge for any specialty IC card. Just remember, it may only be available at the JR kansai Station, which is at the airport. You do not need the kansai one pass since it is also a regular IC Card. Unless you are also interested in some of their additional perks, then it might be of interest.
Hello. Thank you so much for producing informative videos. I will be visiting Osaka and Kyoto in the fall and plan on using the digital Icoca card. Can I use this card to purchase tickets for the Hello Kitty airport train shuttle from Kansai to Kyoto? Or will I have to visit a ticketing machine at the airport and buy paper tickets for the airport train shuttle? Thanks.
Hi, since this is a limited express train you will most likely need to purchase directly from the ticket machine which means you can pay by cash or most likely credit card ( depending on the machine you use ). Probably not with your digital ICOCA. You can get a discount too:
www.westjr.co.jp/global/en/ticket/pass/one_way/haruka/
Do you have vid talking about JR Pass for bullet train？It is $400 for 7 days. Worth it?
Hi, yes, it can be worth it. Here is a video: ruclips.net/video/hsrZpVYH-ls/видео.html
My wife and I used a 14-day pass twice already since the price increase. We went from Sapporo to Nagasaki and made a few stops in between. Got our money's worth.