Kansai Region Pre-Paid Cards

Icoca Card

Meaning "IC Operating CArd" in English and "Shall we go?" in Japanese, this smart card covers the JR West network in western Japan (Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe, Nara, etc.) and interoperates with Suica for the JR East system in Tokyo and Sendai. Back in Kansai, Icoca is good on all private railways - Hankyu, Keihan, Kintetsu, etc. - and the Osaka subway. At your station, just pass the card close to the reader.

Icoca is sold at all JR stations in use for 2,000 yen requiring a refundable 500 yen deposit. You can purchase a commuter pass for a predetermined period or pay as you go. Icoca pays for goods in many convenience stores and from vending machines.

Icoca Card

Kaisu Card

This pre-paid card costs 3,000 yen covering 3,300 worth journeys on Osaka's subways, buses and NewTram lines. If in doubt, consult at a ticket wicket.

Buying usual tickets by packages of 11-14 saves 10-20% on fees. You can use them both for yourself and as a group.

A description of pre-paid cards for the subway, buses, trains in and around Tokyo. Their acceptability in stores.