How to Get a Suica Card on Your iPhone: A Step-by-Step Guide

Having a Suica card on your iPhone is a convenient way to pay for train fares, buses, and purchases at many stores in Japan. Below is a streamlined guide on setting it up.

1. Check Device Compatibility

• Supported Devices: iPhone 8 or later (including the second-generation iPhone SE or newer).

• Operating System: iOS 13 or above (latest iOS recommended).

2. Set Up Apple Pay

1. Open Settings → Wallet & Apple Pay.

2. Add a credit or debit card if you haven’t already (this will be used to top up Suica).

3. Open the Wallet App and Add Suica

1. Open the Wallet app.

2. Tap the “+” icon in the top-right corner.

3. Choose Transit Card, then select Suica.

4. Follow the on-screen instructions to add the card.

4. Create or Transfer a Suica

Option A: Create a New Suica

• Pick an initial balance to load when prompted.

• Confirm the payment using Face ID, Touch ID, or your passcode.

Option B: Transfer an Existing Physical Suica

1. Ensure your physical Suica has a balance below 20,000 JPY.

2. Place the card on a flat surface.

3. Hold your iPhone over the card as instructed until the transfer completes.

5. Top Up Your Suica

1. In the Wallet app, select your Suica card.

2. Tap the “…” (more) button or Add Money.

3. Choose your desired top-up amount.

4. Confirm with Face ID, Touch ID, or passcode.

6. Enable Express Transit (Optional but Recommended)

1. Go to Settings → Wallet & Apple Pay.

2. Tap Express Transit Card (or similar, depending on iOS version).

3. Select your Suica card.

With Express Transit, you can pay at train gates simply by holding your locked iPhone near the reader—no need to unlock or authenticate each time.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Where can I use my Suica?

You can use Suica on JR trains, buses, vending machines, convenience stores, and taxis that display the Suica or IC logo.

2. What is the maximum balance?

The maximum stored value on a Suica card is 20,000 JPY.

3. How do I top up without a credit card?

You can add money to your Suica at station ticket machines using cash. Hold your iPhone over the reader and insert cash to load funds.

Adding a Suica card to your iPhone simplifies travel and purchases in Japan. Just check that your device is compatible, set up Apple Pay, add or transfer your Suica, and consider enabling Express Transit for quick, hassle-free payments. Happy travels!