How to pay for buses in Tokyo
Tokyo Toei buses are best paid with a pre-charged IC card such as Suica or PASMO. Cash is accepted, but Toei says only coins and 1,000-yen bills are accepted for fare payment.
Best option for tourists
Use a pre-charged Suica/PASMO or mobile IC card. Keep coins or a 1,000-yen bill as backup, and follow the door/payment flow shown on the specific bus.
| Transport | Card | Apple Pay | Google Pay | Cash | Onboard | Advance ticket | Front door | Tap off |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tokyo busToei recommends IC cards over cash. For cash payment, prepare coins or a 1,000-yen bill rather than large notes. | No | Partial | Partial | Yes | Yes | No | Partial | Partial |
Can you pay by card on the bus?
No for ordinary open-loop bank-card tap-to-pay on Toei buses. Use an IC card such as PASMO/Suica or cash.
Do you need to buy a ticket before boarding?
You usually do not buy a separate bus ticket in advance for Toei city buses; pay with IC card or cash according to the onboard flow.
Cash, boarding doors and tap-off rules
Yes, cash is accepted on Toei buses, but only coins and 1,000-yen bills are accepted for fare payment. Toei recommends using a pre-charged IC card.
Common questions
Can I pay with card on the bus in Tokyo?
No for ordinary open-loop bank-card tap-to-pay on Toei buses. Use an IC card such as PASMO/Suica or cash.
Do I need cash for buses in Tokyo?
Yes, cash is accepted on Toei buses, but only coins and 1,000-yen bills are accepted for fare payment. Toei recommends using a pre-charged IC card.