My first Suica
A bit of an incongruity here: I’m rapidly becoming a Suica-nerd of the first degree. I read everything committed to paper about the system and I’m asking people for their experiences whenever the opportunity arises. But I stand in line for something as old-fashioned as a ticket every time I ride the tube…
Recently I made up for it, though. I tried to treat myself to the real deal: a Suica, associated with a credit card that automatically tops up my credit when it gets too low. The ultimate in convenience. But, the ultimate in self-exposure at the same time.
By completing the application form, JR East knows neigh everything about me: my personal details and home address. My work address, including my function, place in the organization and the time I’ve been working here. An estimate of my monthly wages. My debts, if any. The account number of credit cards already issued to me.
I felt somewhat naked. The only things that are still private to me are my political affiliation and the size of my … *ehhrrm* feet.
In the end, however, it turned out not to be easy for foreigners to apply for this service. First, I need to get a registered Japanese bank account, even though I have a credit card already. And even then, there’s a big chance that I’ll be refused on account of staying here for but four months. That makes JR East nervous. For how will they be able to redeem their losses if, after I leave, it turns out that I’m not good for the credit?
So, I decided to settle for an anonymous card from a vending machine for now. But I’m not giving up this easily. The JR East credit card might be out of reach, another appealing option is still open: the Mobile Suica. Practically all new mobile phones in Japan contain a FeliCa chip, which is the exact same chip that the plastic Suica and Pasmo cards rely on. This will have to wait for another week until my paperwork is processed and I can identify myself as a legal alien. Getting a mobile is a bit of a hassle in Japan. Strict rules have been introduced after a lot of people fraudulently used their phones.
As for my first experiences with Suica: it suits me just fine. It works well and reliably. I can top up my stored credits also at Pasmo machines. I bought a few cans of lager at a shop brandishing the Pasmo logo. So far, all signals point towards full interoperablility of the two systems.
