Japan launches Tourist Pasmo prepaid card for international visitors

The Japan Pasmo Card will be available from May 2026

Travelers visiting Japan will soon have a new way to navigate the country’s extensive transport networks. PASMO Co., Ltd. announced that the "Tourist Pasmo" IC card will be released in May 2026. Specifically designed for short-term visitors, the card acts as a rechargeable electronic wallet for trains, buses, and retail purchases.

The launch follows the 2024 discontinuation of the previous Pasmo Passport. According to an official press release from PASMO Co., Ltd., the new card features a "stylish design decorated with kanji characters," including the character for "travel" (旅) at its center.

The company intends for the card to serve as a functional tool during the trip and a "perfect souvenir" afterward.

Where to buy and how to use the Japan Tourist Pasmo card

The Tourist Pasmo will be sold at major international gateways, including Narita Airport and Haneda Airport. Travelers can purchase the card at dedicated ticket windows and vending machines.

Unlike standard IC cards, the Tourist Pasmo does not require a 500-yen deposit, meaning the full purchase price is available for immediate use. At Narita Airport, the card is expected to be sold for a flat rate of 2,000 yen. At Haneda Airport, travelers can choose denominations ranging from 1,000 to 10,000 yen.

The card is valid for 28 days from the date of issue. While users can add value to the card at stations and convenience stores throughout their stay, any remaining balance at the end of the 28 days is non-refundable.

Nationwide convenience enabling public transport and cashless payments

Although issued by non-JR operators in the Tokyo area, the card is compatible with most public transport systems across Japan that accept IC cards. This includes subways, buses, and trains in major cities like Osaka, Kyoto, and Sapporo.

Beyond transportation, the card supports cashless payments at:

• Vending machines
• Convenience stores and drugstores
• Participating restaurants
• Coin lockers

"This IC card was inspired by PASMO PASSPORT. It is only available to tourists from overseas on short-term visits," stated the company in their official announcement.

The release of the Tourist Pasmo aligns with other upcoming digital travel initiatives in the country, such as the Japan JESTA travel authorization, similar to the US ESTA, which aims to streamline entry processes for visa-exempt foreign nationals.