When you’re in Tokyo, having an IC transport card is one of the most convenient ways to travel around the city. Pasmo and Suica are the two main IC transport cards used in Tokyo. These reloadable cards are convenient, not just for trains and buses, but also for paying at participating stores and restaurants. You can even use them at most vending machines.
Unfortunately, due to the current global semiconductor shortage, sales of both Pasmo and Suica cards have been suspended indefinitely. Both JR East (which operates Suica) and Pasmo Co have announced that they have stopped selling those cards as of August 2.
【お知らせ】8月2日（水）より、すでに発売を一時中止している無記名の「PASMO」「Suica」に加えて、記名の「PASMO」「Suica」カードの発売も一時中止させていただきます。詳しくはこちらから。https://t.co/UaK6y7445c pic.twitter.com/EFShzoJSYF
— PASMO 【公式】 (@pasmonorobot) July 31, 2023
The sale of unregistered Suica and Pasmo cards were already suspended back in June. Now, sale is also halted for registered cards, where purchasers must provide details such as name and phone number at the point of purchase.
Thankfully, it's not all bad news. Certain IC cards are still available for purchase, including monthly commuter rail passes and the two special IC cards for foreign tourists: Pasmo Passport and Welcome Suica. Alternatively, you can also get mobile versions of Suica and Pasmo on your phone.
For more Tokyo travel tips, visit here.
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