KKCCIC card for transportation
There are "Suica" or "PASMO" card in Japan (mainly in Kanto Rigion. There are another named card in another region). It is a non-contact (RFID) IC card ("smart card") that can holds up to ¥20,000 in electronic money ("e-cash") for many railways, subways, buses, and shops in Japan (mainliy available in urban areas).
When you ride a train, with just one quick touch, you can pass through the ticket gates and your fare is automatically deducted! No need to buy a ticket every time you ride a train! You can recharge and reuse the card an unlimited number of times! You can also use it on future trips to Japan! (reference: JR EAST)
It is not only convenient but also cheaper than cash when riding a train (In many cases, the price paid by IC card is 1-4yen lower than that by cash.)
You can get it from the ticket‐vending machine in many railway and subway station including Narita/Haneda airports, or bus depots. You have to pay extra 500yen for the deposit at first, but when you return the card after the trip, the deposit and balance will be back to you.
Please note that you can return the card and get the deposit and balance only when the ticketing office is opened (the office hour is defferent from each offices.) And also only where at the same region's office where you bought (for example, if you buy the IC card in Kanto rigion, you can return it only at the office located in Kanto region.)
I recommend PASMO rather than Suica. Because at first 220yen will be charged when you refund (if the balance exceeds 220 yen) only in case of Suica. Second the deposit and balance of Suica cannot be refunded in the Haneda airport. (But ... I prefer Suica to PASMO because the penguin is very cute!)
Click below to learn more
