Due to a global shortage of semiconductors, sales of Japan's two largest types of IC Cards (eminently convenient, once-omnipresent, charge-and-tap transit cards) Suica and PASMO, will be suspended as of August 2nd, 2023. Unfortunately, it remains unclear when sales will resume.
With this being said, it is not all bad news! The tourist-oriented alternatives “Welcome Suica” and “PASMO PASSPORT” will remain available, with some new changes in effect. Functionally, these variants are largely the same as their local counterparts, however sales points are more limited (refer to the press release at the bottom of this article, or to the pages linked above for more details).
Additionally, it should be noted that while “Welcome Suica” (and, on a temporary basis “PASMO PASSPORT”) do not require the 500JPY activation fee of their local counterparts, they are only valid for 28-days. Once the validity period is over, the remaining balance is non-refundable.
Mobile versions of Suica and PASMO remain available, however compatability with non-Japanese smartphones and payment methods may vary.
More information can be found in East Japan Railway Company's July 31st press release:
Temporary suspension of sales for personalized Suica and PASMO cards (jreast.co.jp)
NOTE: This information is as of August 2023. Please refer to the official Suica and Pasmo webpages for up-to-date information.
