
To set up Suica mobile payment in Japan, you'll need to download the Suica app and register for an account. This is the first step towards enjoying the convenience of mobile payment.
The Suica app is available for both iOS and Android devices, so you can choose the one that suits you best. Once you've downloaded the app, follow the prompts to create an account and add a payment method.
You'll need to have a Suica card or a registered mobile phone number to complete the registration process. This is a security measure to prevent unauthorized use.
After registering, you'll receive a confirmation email with a link to activate your account. Click on the link to complete the activation process and start using your Suica mobile payment.
Setting Up Suica
To add a Suica card to your iPhone, head to the Wallet app and select "Add". You can then choose the "Transit Card" option and select Suica to continue.
You'll need to enter how much you want to charge your card, and then select "Add". This will prompt you to confirm your purchase, and that's it.
The process is surprisingly simple, especially considering the complexity it used to involve.
Mobile Payment Flow
Mobile Suica payment involves a series of steps that ensure a smooth transaction. The flow starts with a purchase, where you buy a product or service.
The purchase information is then notified to the store site and GMO Payment Gateway. This is done to keep both parties informed about the transaction.
Next, the purchase information is notified to Suica, which is the payment system being used. This is where the payment processing begins.
After the payment execution, a payment completion notification is sent from Suica to GMO Payment Gateway. This confirms that the payment has been processed successfully.
The payment completion notification is then sent from GMO Payment Gateway to the store site, which acknowledges the payment.
The final step is service provision, where the product is shipped to the customer. This is followed by payment, where the funds are credited to the store site.
Here is the flow in a simplified list:
- Purchase
- Purchase information notification (Store site → GMO Payment Gateway)
- Purchase information notification (GMO Payment Gateway → Suica)
- Payment execution
- Payment completion notification (Suica → GMO Payment Gateway)
- Payment completion notification (GMO Payment Gateway → Store site)
- Service provision (product shipping)
- Payment (Suica → GMO Payment Gateway)
- Payment (GMO Payment Gateway → Store site)
Adding Funds and Top-Up
Adding funds to your Suica mobile payment card is a straightforward process. You can add money using a supported credit or prepaid card in the Wallet app.
To top up your Suica, PASMO, or ICOCA card, follow these steps:
- In the Wallet app, tap your Suica, PASMO, or ICOCA card.
- Tap Add Money.
- Choose the amount that you want to add and tap Add.
- Select the credit or prepaid card that you want to use to pay and confirm the transaction with Face ID or Touch ID.
You can also follow the instructions on the screen to complete the transaction.
Adding Funds to IC
If you need to add funds to your IC card, you'll need a supported credit or prepaid card in the Wallet app.
To get started, open the Wallet app on your iPhone and tap your Suica, PASMO, or ICOCA card.
You'll then need to tap Add Money, followed by the amount you want to add and tap Add.
Next, select the credit or prepaid card you want to use to pay and confirm the transaction with Face ID or Touch ID.
The entire process should take just a few taps, and you'll be all set to use your IC card again.
Here are the steps in a concise format:
- Open the Wallet app and tap your Suica, PASMO, or ICOCA card.
- Tap Add Money.
- Choose the amount you want to add and tap Add.
- Select the credit or prepaid card to use and confirm the transaction.
Top Up Your

You can top up your mobile Suica or PASMO card using a supported credit or prepaid card in the Wallet app.
To add money to your Suica, PASMO, or ICOCA card, you need to have the Wallet app open on your iPhone. Tap your Suica, PASMO, or ICOCA card to see your current balance.
To top up your Suica, PASMO, or ICOCA card, follow these steps: tap Add Money, choose the amount you want to add, and then select the credit or prepaid card you want to use to pay and confirm the transaction with Face ID or Touch ID.
You can also use the Digital Crown to scroll down and see your current balance in the Wallet app.
Using the App
You can use the Suica or PASMO app to access additional services on your card. This includes creating a new card, setting up auto-reload, and buying Shinkansen or Green Car tickets.
To buy a Shinkansen ticket, you can use the Suica app for Tohoku, Yamagata, Akita, Hokkaido, Joetsu, and Hokuriku Shinkansens. For Green Car tickets, you can use the Suica app for JR East trains only.
To get started, download the Suica or PASMO app and follow the in-app instructions.
Use the App

Using the app can be a convenient way to use your Suica or PASMO card. You can download the Suica or PASMO app to access additional services on your card.
The Suica app or PASMO app allows you to create a new Suica or PASMO card, which can be a great option if you're visiting Japan and don't want to buy a physical card. You can also use the app to create or change your commute plan.
With the Suica or PASMO app, you can buy Shinkansen tickets for certain routes, including Tohoku, Yamagata, Akita, Hokkaido, Joetsu, and Hokuriku Shinkansens. You can also buy Green Car tickets for JR East trains only.
To transfer your Suica, PASMO, or ICOCA card to a new iPhone, you'll need to open the Wallet app and tap the Add button. Then, tap Previous Cards and choose your card to follow the steps on the screen.

If you're using an Android phone, you'll need to add Suica or PASMO to your Google Pay app to use it as an IC Card in Japan. Make sure your phone supports "Osaifu-Keitai" for this to work.
Here's a quick rundown of how to add a Suica or PASMO card to your Android:
Putting Apple Watch in Service Mode
To put your Apple Watch in Service Mode, you'll need to follow these steps: Remove the Apple Watch from your wrist, then enter the passcode to unlock it. Next, double-click the side button to access the menu. From there, scroll down to select your card, and use the Digital Crown to scroll down and tap Turn on Service Mode.
To confirm that Service Mode is enabled, you may need to ask the station agent to hold your watch with the display facing down. This will ensure that the agent can verify the status of your card.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can tourists use Mobile Suica?
Yes, tourists can use the Mobile Suica app, which allows them to obtain and charge their digital Suica cards before arriving in Japan. This convenient feature is set to launch in Spring 2025.
What is the payment method of Suica?
Suica cards use a prepaid electronic money system, where fares are automatically deducted from the card's balance when tapping onto ticket gates. This convenient payment method eliminates the need for buying tickets from vending machines.
Sources
- https://www.gmo-pg.com/en/service/mulpay-mobilesuica/
- https://ps-travelshots.com/en/asia/travel-tips-japan/suica-pasmo-and-icoca-prepaid-cards-in-japan/
- https://www.japanlivingguide.com/expatinfo/transportation/mobile-suica/
- https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT207154
- https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT207155
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