There are so many questions lately about the new metro card system, after sales of regular Pasmo and Suica stopped in August. This was apparently caused by scarcity of semiconductors used in the card chip. I would like to address some of these questions and will update if more come to mind.

Can I still use my old Pasmo card?

Yes. If you’re experiencing issues, you can ask the metro station staff.

Can I still buy a regular Pasmo card?

Yes, if you contestually purchase a commuter pass.

Can I buy metro cards from other regions, like Icoca?

Some are still available but sales will be halted as well.

How much are Pasmo Passport and Welcome Suica?

Pasmo Passport costs 1500 yen. Welcome Suica is 1000 yen.

Does my child need his/her own metro card?

Yes, you can purchase them at the same time. However, cards for children cannot be used once turned 12 years old.

Where can I purchase Pasmo Passport and Welcome Suica?

You can purchase Pasmo Passport and Welcome Suica at Haneda and Narita airports. Pasmo Passport is also available for purchase at Yokohama and Shinagawa stations, as well as Ueno, Ueno-Okachimachi, Otemachi, Ginza, Shimbashi, Shibuya, Meiji-jingumae, Shinjuku, Takadanobaba, Ikebukuro, Iidabashi stations.

Do I need to show my passport when buying Pasmo Passport and Welcome Suica?

Yes. You also need to keep the receipt with you and be able to show it to station staff if asked to.

What if I lose my card?

You will need to buy a new one.

Are Pasmo Passport and Welcome Suica refundable?

Unfortunately, any amount left on the cards is non-refundable. I suggest you regularly check the amount left on your card(s) and try and use it all.

Do they have an expiration date?

Both Pasmo Passport and Welcome Suica have a 28 days validity, after which you need to purchase a new card.

Can I use Pasmo Passport and Welcome Suica as regular Pasmo and Suica?

Yes. You can use the cards for transportation (including metro, buses, trains) and in shops that accept regular Pasmo and Suica, and at vending machines.

How can I recharge my cards?

At automatic machines inside stations and at major konbini.

Where can I find more information?

You can check the official Pasmo Passport and Welcome Suica websites.

 

 

 

 

Pic:タチヤマカムイ, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons