Over 700 Stations Now Support Credit Card Tap Travel in Kanto

Mar 25, 2026 | News On Japan

TOKYO - Railway operators across Japan’s Kanto region have launched a new service allowing passengers to travel using contactless credit card payments, enabling seamless transfers across multiple rail lines operated by 11 companies and covering more than 700 stations.

The system allows riders to simply tap their credit card at ticket gates to board trains and transfer between participating railway networks without the need for traditional tickets or transportation IC cards.

However, fares are calculated in 10-yen increments, making them slightly more expensive than those charged when using IC cards. Despite the higher cost, the service is expected to appeal particularly to inbound tourists by offering greater convenience and eliminating the need to purchase or recharge transit cards.

Okada of Tokyu Corporation said that IC cards are expected to remain the primary method of payment for domestic users, adding that railway operators will continue working together to improve services through collaboration.

Source: テレ東BIZ

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