A SUICA CARD--ESSENTIAL FOR TRAVEL IN JAPAN

SUICA CARD

MAKES TRAVEL IN JAPAN EASIER

 Travel in Japan is now far easier than it once was, with good web sites in English, and most instructions at train stations and bus terminals in English; but not always.Getting around Japan by train or bus , using the Suica Card is so much easier that trying to work out the correct fare and pay cash.Sometimes it is not clear if in fact you can understand the often complex fare and line guide.

Suica Web Site

 A Simple Guide For Foreigners

The Suica Card is a pre-paid smart card for use on public transport (metro, trains, buses and monorail).The card is debited for every trip when you touch the card reader at the entrance to the station or track or on the bus. It does not work on express trains, Shinkansen , longer distance buses or the Airport Shuttle so check  before use.

It comes loaded with Yen 2,000 and there is a Yen 500 deposit, refundable at anyJR East Station in Tokyo, You can top up at ticket machines , which have an English capability but note it is CASH ONLY unless you have a JR Credit Card which is unlikey. (There are still some odd rules and situations that are not explainable).  The card is not registered in your name so anyone can use the card. You can check the credit on the card reader or at the ticket machine.

If you mess up, go to the nearest attendant and they will do their very best to assist. So too any Japanese person, but you need to ask.