Let's be honest—cash is for tourists. Grab a Suica or Pasmo card immediately or forever be labeled as "that foreigner holding up the ticket line." I always load mine with ¥5,000 because running out mid-journey is the fastest way to feel like an idiot.
Top-up like you actually know what you're doing:
- Avoid those ticket machines during rush hour unless you enjoy being silently judged by 50 salarymen
- Convenience stores are your salvation—just hand over your card and cash to the clerk and mumble "charge" while pointing
- Keep at least ¥1,500 on your card at all times—nothing says "I didn't plan ahead" like the embarrassing "insufficient funds" beep
Hot take: The tiny discount you get using IC cards at vending machines adds up. I've saved enough for an extra bowl of ramen by the end of my trip. And nothing says "I belong here" like confidently tapping your card while the tourist next to you fumbles with a fistful of coins.
Pro tip: Your Suica works on buses, trains, subways, vending machines, konbini, and even some taxis. It's basically your passport to not looking clueless.