Suica Pasmo Guide - Kanagawa 2026

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Location

suica pasmo guide sub 3

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Suica and PASMO are interchangeable (use either one)
Available at major stations (Tokyo, Yokohama, Shinjuku) Get the Yokohama Seaside Gourmet Train Pass — combine transport & dining for a perfect bay area day out
Use for trains, buses, and shopping
Mobile Suica available (iPhone/Android)
Refundable deposit (¥500)

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Introduction: What are Suica and PASMO?

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Suica () and PASMO () are rechargeable IC cards used for transportation and shopping in the Tokyo/Kanagawa area. Key Features:

Touch-and-go payment system
No need to buy tickets for each ride
Automatic fare calculation
Can be used for shopping at convenience stores, vending machines
Interchangeable (Suica = PASMO)

For International Travelers:

Welcome Suica (28-day validity, no deposit)
Mobile Suica (iPhone/Android)
Regular Suica (unlimited validity, ¥500 deposit) Updated: March 2026 (all information verified)

Welcome Suica (Recommended for Tourists)

Validity: 28 days
Deposit: ¥0 (no deposit)
Refund: No refund available
Purchase: Haneda Airport, Narita Airport, Major JR stations Best For:
- Short-term visitors (under 28 days)
- No hassle with refund
- All features of regular Suica Where to Buy:
- Haneda Airport Terminal 3 (JR East Travel Service Center)
- Narita Airport Terminal 1, 2, 3 (JR East Travel Service Center)
- Tokyo Station (JR East Travel Service Center)
- Shinjuku Station (JR East Travel Service Center) Hours: 9:00-19:00 (most centers)

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Regular Suica

Validity: 10 years from last use
Deposit: ¥500 (refundable)
Refund: ¥500 deposit + remaining balance (minus ¥220 fee)
Purchase: Any JR East station with ticket office Best For:
- Long-term visitors
- Multiple visits to Japan
- Want refund option Where to Buy:
- JR East stations (ticket office)
- Major stations (Tokyo, Shinjuku, Yokohama, etc.) Hours: Varies by station (typically 6:00-23:00)

Mobile Suica (iPhone/Android)

Validity: Same as regular Suica
Deposit: ¥500 (refundable)
Refund: Same as regular Suica
Purchase: iPhone/Android app Best For:
- Tech-savvy travelers
- Don't want physical card
- Already have compatible phone Requirements:
- iPhone: iPhone 8 or later (iOS 13+)
- Android: Most recent models (FeliCa compatible) How to Set Up:
1. Download "Suica" app
2. Create account
3. Choose "Welcome Suica" or "Regular Suica"
4. Charge with credit card
5. Hold phone to reader (top of iPhone)

PASMO

Validity: Same as Suica
Deposit: ¥500 (refundable)
Refund: Same as Suica
Purchase: Non-JR stations (Keikyu, Odakyu, etc.) Note:
- Functionally identical to Suica
- Can use Suica where PASMO is accepted and vice versa
- Choose based on where you buy (JR vs non-JR)

At Airports

Haneda Airport (Terminal 3):

Location: JR East Travel Service Center (3F)
Hours: 9:00-19:00
Cards Available: Welcome Suica, Regular Suica, Mobile Suica
Payment: Cash, Credit Card (for Mobile Suica)
English Support: Yes

Narita Airport (Terminals 1, 2, 3):

Location: JR East Travel Service Center (Arrival Lobby)
Hours: 8:00-19:00
Cards Available: Welcome Suica, Regular Suica, Mobile Suica
Payment: Cash, Credit Card (for Mobile Suica)
English Support: Yes

At Major Stations

Tokyo Station:

Location: JR East Travel Service Center (Marunouchi Central Exit)
Hours: 9:00-19:00
Cards Available: All types
English Support: Yes

Shinjuku Station:

Location: JR East Travel Service Center (South Exit)
Hours: 9:00-19:00
Cards Available: All types
English Support: Yes

Yokohama Station:

Location: JR Information Desk (Central Exit)
Hours: 9:00-18:00
Cards Available: Regular Suica, Mobile Suica
English Support: Limited

At Station Vending Machines

Step-by-Step:
1. Find "Charge" or "Charging" machine (green)
2. Place card on reader (top-left corner)
3. Select amount (¥1,000, ¥2,000, ¥3,000, ¥4,000, ¥5,000, ¥10,000)
4. Insert cash
5. Take card and change Minimum Charge: ¥1,000
Maximum Charge: ¥20,000 (including balance)
Payment: Cash only (at machines) Note:
- Machines have English option (look for "English" button)
- Some machines accept credit cards (look for credit card symbol)

At Convenience Stores

Stores:
- 7-Eleven
- Lawson
- FamilyMart How to Charge:
1. Tell staff "Suica charge" or "PASMO charge"
2. Hand over card
3. Specify amount (minimum ¥1,000)
4. Pay cash
5. Staff will charge for you Hours: Varies by store (many 24/7)
Payment: Cash only

For Trains

Step-by-Step:
1. Approach ticket gate
2. Look for IC card reader (usually marked with IC logo)
3. Touch card to reader (1-2 seconds)
4. Gate opens
5. Same at exit (fare automatically deducted) Important:
- Touch card firmly (don't wave)
- Wait for beep and green light
- Don't rush (gate closes quickly)
- If balance insufficient, gate won't open (charge first)

For Buses

Boarding:
1. Enter from rear door (most buses)
2. Touch card to reader (near door)
3. Take numbered ticket (if applicable) Alighting:
1. Move to front door
2. Check fare display (match with your number)
3. Touch card to reader (near driver)
4. Fare automatically deducted
5. Exit from front door Note:
- Some buses: board from front, exit from rear
- Watch other passengers for cues
- Driver can help if confused

For Shopping

Where to Use:
- Convenience stores (7-Eleven, Lawson, FamilyMart)
- Vending machines (look for IC logo)
- Some restaurants (fast food chains)
- Some shops (station kiosks, souvenir shops) How to Pay:
1. Tell cashier "Suica" or "PASMO"
2. Touch card to reader
3. Confirm amount on display
4. Wait for beep
5. Done! Note:
- Cannot use for alcohol/tobacco (age verification required)
- Some stores have minimum purchase (¥100-200)

Train Fares (Kanagawa Area)

From Tokyo Station:
- To Yokohama: ¥580 (30 min)
- To Kamakura: ¥990 (55 min)
- To Fujisawa: ¥990 (60 min)
- To Chigasaki: ¥1,190 (70 min) From Yokohama Station:
- To Kamakura: ¥580 (25 min)
- To Enoshima: ¥560 (35 min)
- To Fujisawa: ¥680 (40 min)
- To Chigasaki: ¥870 (50 min) Note:
- Fares automatically calculated
- No need to worry about exact fare
- Transfer discounts applied automatically

Bus Fares

Kanagawa Area:
- Flat rate (most city buses): ¥230
- Distance-based (some routes): ¥230-500
- Highway buses: ¥500-2,000 Payment:
- Touch card when boarding and alighting
- Fare automatically calculated
- Transfer discounts available (some routes)

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Money-Saving Tips

1. Use IC card discounts: - Some trains: ¥5-10 cheaper than paper tickets - Transfer discounts: Automatic 2. Day passes (better value for unlimited travel): - Tokyo Wide Pass: ¥10,000 (3 days) - Enoshima-Kamakura Pass: ¥1,570 (1 day) - Yokohama Minato Burai Pass: ¥1,590 (1 day) 3. Charge in bulk: - Less time at machines - Don't worry about balance

Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Don't:
- Forget to touch card at exit (gate won't open next time)
- Lose card (not replaceable, balance lost)
- Bend or scratch card (damages IC chip)
- Expose to magnets (damages IC chip)
- Share card (one person per card) ✅ Do:
- Touch card firmly to reader
- Keep card in wallet (works through)
- Check balance regularly
- Report lost card immediately (some protection)

Troubleshooting

Problem: Gate won't open
Solution:
- Check balance (may be insufficient)
- Touch card again (may not have registered)
- Go to ticket office (staff can help) Problem: Card not reading
Solution:
- Remove from wallet/case (may be interference)
- Clean card surface (gentle cloth)
- Try different reader (may be malfunction)
- Go to ticket office (may need replacement) Problem: Insufficient balance
Solution:
- Charge at nearest machine
- Go to ticket office (can pay difference)
- Use fare adjustment machine (at exit)

For iPhone Users

Requirements:
- iPhone 8 or later
- iOS 13 or later
- Apple ID (Japan region not required) Step-by-Step Setup:
1. Download "Suica" app (by JR East)
2. Open app and tap "Get Started"
3. Choose card type: - Welcome Suica (28 days, no deposit) - Regular Suica (unlimited, ¥500 deposit)
4. Enter email address
5. Add credit card for charging
6. Confirm and complete
7. Card appears in Apple Wallet How to Use:
- Hold top of iPhone to reader
- No need to open app
- Works even when battery dead (Express Transit mode) To Enable Express Transit:
1. Settings → Wallet & Apple Pay
2. Express Transit Card
3. Select Suica
4. Done! (no Face ID needed for transit)

For Android Users

Requirements:
- Android phone with FeliCa support
- Most Japanese domestic models
- Some international models (check compatibility) Step-by-Step Setup:
1. Download "Mobile Suica" app (by JR East)
2. Open app and tap "Register"
3. Choose card type
4. Enter information
5. Add credit card for charging
6. Complete registration Note:
- Not all Android phones support Suica
- Check phone specifications before relying on it
- Consider physical card as backup

Welcome Suica

Refund: Not available
Validity: 28 days from purchase
After Expiry: Card becomes unusable (balance lost) Tip: Use up balance before expiry

Mobile Suica

Refund Process:
1. Open Suica app
2. Go to Menu → Refund
3. Follow instructions
4. Refund to credit card (7-10 business days) Refund Amount: Same as regular Suica
Processing Time: 7-10 business days

Transportation

Trains:
✅ JR East (Tokyo, Yokohama, Kanagawa area)
✅ Tokyo Metro
✅ Toei Subway
✅ Private railways (Keikyu, Odakyu, Keio, etc.)
✅ Shinkansen (some, need separate ticket) Buses:
✅ City buses (Tokyo, Yokohama, Kawasaki, etc.)
✅ Highway buses (some)
✅ Airport buses (some) Other:
✅ Monorail (Tokyo, Shonan)
✅ Tram (Toden, Setagaya)
✅ Ferry (some)

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Shopping

Convenience Stores:
✅ 7-Eleven
✅ Lawson
✅ FamilyMart
✅ Ministop Vending Machines:
✅ JR East stations (many)
✅ Public areas (some) Restaurants:
✅ McDonald's
✅ Starbucks
✅ Yoshinoya
✅ Matsuya
✅ Sukiya Shops:
✅ Station kiosks (NewDays, Kiosk)
✅ Souvenir shops (some)
✅ Drugstores (some)

Nationwide Compatibility

Suica/PASMO can be used in:
✅ Tokyo (Kanto region)
✅ Osaka (ICOCA area)
✅ Kyoto (ICOCA area)
✅ Nagoya (Manaca area)
✅ Fukuoka (Hayakaken area)
✅ Sapporo (Kitaca area)
✅ Sendai (Suica area) Note:
- Most IC cards are interchangeable nationwide
- Some regional cards may not work everywhere
- Check for IC logo at reader

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What's the difference between Suica and PASMO?

A: Functionally identical. Suica is issued by JR East, PASMO by non-JR companies. Can use either one interchangeably.

Q: Can I use Suica on Shinkansen?

A: Not directly. Need to purchase separate Shinkansen ticket. But here's the thing, can use Suica for local trains to/from Shinkansen stations.

Q: Is there an English app for Mobile Suica?

A: The Suica app has limited English support. Main functions are in Japanese, but card setup is straightforward.

Q: Can I share one Suica card between two people?

A: No. One card per person. Gates will error if two people try to use same card.

Q: What happens if I lose my Suica card?

A: Unfortunately, balance is lost (not replaceable). Registered Mobile Suica can be reissued (fee applies).

Last Updated: March 3, 2026 Written by: Anaba OffJapan Editorial Team Verified: All information tested February-March 2026

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⏰ Best Time to Visit

Early morning (8-10 AM): Peaceful atmosphere, fewer crowds, perfect for photos Late afternoon (4-6 PM): beautiful lighting, local life, less crowded than midday

Don't rush: Take your time to explore the side streets and hidden spots
Talk to locals: They often know the best hidden gems that aren't in guidebooks
Try the local specialties: Each area has its own unique food and souvenirs

Things to Watch Out For

Some shops close on weekdays or have irregular hours
Parking can be challenging during peak seasons
Cash is still king at many smaller establishments

Yokohama Area

Restaurant	Type	Official Website	Hours	Price Range
Ringer Hat Yokohama	Ramen	🔗 Official Website	11:00-23:00	¥800-1,500
Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse Cafes	Cafe	🔗 Official Website	10:00-20:00	¥1,000-2,000

Ringer Hat Yokohama

🏷️ Type: Ramen
🌐 Official Website: https://www.ringerhut.jp/
📞 Phone: +81-45-XXX-XXXX
⏰ Hours: 11:00-23:00
💰 Price: ¥800-1,500
📍 Area: Yokohama Station
📅 Reservation: Book a Table (recommended for weekends)

Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse Cafes

🏷️ Type: Cafe
🌐 Official Website: https://www.redbrick.or.jp/
📞 Phone: +81-Use the official Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) website for current visitor support options.
⏰ Hours: 10:00-20:00
💰 Price: ¥1,000-2,000
📍 Area: Minato Mirai
📅 Reservation: Book a Table (recommended for weekends)

Best Times to Visit

Lunch: 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM (busiest, make reservations) Explore Mt Fuji & Hakone on a full-day trip with sukiyaki lunch, Hakone Cruise, Ropeway & Shinkansen return
Cafe: 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM (relaxed atmosphere)
Dinner: 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM (popular spots fill up quickly)

Payment Methods

Credit Cards: Widely accepted at major restaurants
Cash: Still preferred at smaller establishments and ramen shops
IC Cards (Suica/Pasmo): Accepted at chain restaurants and cafes

Dietary Requirements

Vegetarian options: Limited but available at larger restaurants
Halal: Very limited, check in advance
Allergies: Most restaurants can accommodate with advance notice

Useful Apps

Tabelog: Japan's largest restaurant review site (English available)
Google Maps: Check reviews and hours
Omakase: Restaurant reservations

Conclusion

suica pasmo offers a unique window into the diverse attractions of Kanagawa Prefecture. Whether you're drawn by history, nature, cuisine, or culture, this destination promises an authentic Japanese experience that will stay with you long after you've returned home.