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    How to check your Suica balance in Japan

    Wondering how much is left on your Suica card before the gate beeps? You can check the balance instantly by tapping the card to your phone with a free NFC reader app, no station visit required.

    01

    Three easy ways to check your balance

    • Tap the card on your phone with a free NFC reader app to see the balance instantly.
    • Insert the card into any ticket vending machine at a JR or metro station.
    • Look at the screen on the fare gate, which shows the remaining balance when you tap out.
    02

    Using the IC card reader app

    The simplest method during a trip is the free IC card reader app from nfcjp.com. You open the app, tap your physical Suica, Pasmo or ICOCA on the back of your phone and the balance appears in about a second.

    There is no account, no top up and no internet needed. The card data is read locally on your device.

    03

    Which IC cards are supported

    • Suica, including Welcome Suica for tourists.
    • Pasmo, including Pasmo Passport.
    • ICOCA, TOICA, SUGOCA, Kitaca, manaca, nimoca, Hayakaken and PiTaPa.
    • Most regional transit IC cards across Japan.

    Check your IC card balance in one tap

    Free IC card balance checker for Suica, Pasmo, ICOCA and every major Japanese transit card. Works on Android and iPhone with NFC.

    Frequently asked questions

    Quick answers to common questions.

    Do I need an internet connection to check my balance?

    No. The app reads the balance directly from the card over NFC, so it works in airplane mode too.

    Does the app work for Welcome Suica and Pasmo Passport?

    Yes. Tourist IC cards use the same chip as regular cards and are fully supported.

    Will the app charge me or top up the card?

    No. It only reads the balance and recent transactions. Top ups still happen at station machines or konbini.

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