Japan Travel Tips
Issue a Suica before you land, top up cashlessly, book Shinkansen seats, and pay for everything with a tap — all from a single iOS app designed specifically for overseas visitors.
If you're planning to use trains, buses, or convenience stores during your time in Japan, a Suica IC card is an essential travel companion. For overseas visitors, JR East offers the Welcome Suica — a deposit-free version of the card with no residency requirement — and since spring 2025, it's available as a smartphone app called Welcome Suica Mobile.
The app has seen major updates since launch. As of spring 2026, you can now book Green Car seats and Shinkansen reserved tickets directly within the app, making it one of the most capable transit tools for tourists traveling Japan.
Why Choose Welcome Suica Mobile?
1
Longer Validity
180 days from issue — vs. just 28 days from first use for the physical card.
2
Cashless Top-Up
Recharge anytime via Apple Pay. No cash machines, no queues, no hunting for the right slot.
3
Reserve Shinkansen Seats
Book and board reserved seats on Shinkansen and Narita Express — fully ticketless.
4
Green Car Upgrade
Purchase Green Car (first class) tickets for local trains directly in the app.
5
No Activation Needed
Tap and go on Shinkansen non-reserved cars from day one — no machine activation required.
6
Set Up Before You Fly
Download the app before your trip. No airports detours, no vending machine queues.
Mobile vs. Physical: At a Glance
📱 Welcome Suica Mobile
- 180-day validity from issue date
- Top up via Apple Pay
- Book reserved Shinkansen seats
- Buy Green Car tickets in-app
- No activation for Touch de Go!
- iOS only (iPhone & Apple Watch)
🃏 Welcome Suica (Physical)
- 28-day validity from first use
- Cash recharge only
- No in-app ticket features
- Requires one-time activation for Touch de Go!
- Available at airports & JAPAN RAIL CAFE
From CDJapan Rental
Make the Most of Welcome Suica Mobile — With a Japan eSIM
Topping up your Suica via Apple Pay, booking a Shinkansen seat on the go, and checking live train schedules all require a stable internet connection. A dropped signal at the wrong moment can hold up your whole journey.
CDJapan offers Japan eSIM plans running on docomo — Japan's largest mobile network — with coverage across the country. No physical SIM swap, no waiting at a counter. Activate before you fly and you'll be connected the moment you land.
- docomo network — Japan's largest
- No physical SIM swap needed
- Activate before departure
- Connected from the moment you land
Shop CDJapan eSIM Plans
Compatible devices required. eSIM plans from CDJapan Rental.