SAPICAサピカ
Written and edited by: JapanLiveNow
A local card for Sapporo’s subway, trams and selected buses. If you want a card for Tokyo or Osaka too, choose a nationwide card such as Kitaca.
Some Sapporo routes accepting SAPICA also accept Suica and Kitaca. This does not mean SAPICA works on Suica or Kitaca routes in other cities.
Official information checked · Standard adult cards
Sources: Sapporo Information Network ↗
Where can you buy it, and how much does it cost?
- Issuer
- Sapporo Information Network
- Deposit
- 500 JPY
- Initial purchase amount
- ¥2,000 = ¥1,500 usable balance + ¥500 deposit
Buy from Sapporo Subway ticket machines or commuter pass sales offices. Bus company counters selling SAPICA also issue it.
The ¥500 deposit is paid when you first buy the card. You cannot spend it on transport or shopping, and you do not pay it again when topping up.
Official purchase and usage guide ↗ · Checked 2026-10-17
How do you add money?
Use ticket or top-up machines displaying SAPICA, or counters handling SAPICA. Before using a convenience store, confirm that it specifically offers SAPICA top-ups.
- Select 「チャージ」 (top up), then insert your card or place it on the marked reader.
- Choose an amount and insert cash as instructed on screen.
- Check the balance on the completion screen, then collect your card and change.
At a convenience store or counter, tell the staff how much to add. The card insertion order and available amounts vary by machine.
Official top-up and usage guide ↗Checked 2026-10-17
Which areas accept it?
Use it on Sapporo’s subway, trams and buses accepting SAPICA. It cannot be used on JR or as a nationwide card in Tokyo or Osaka.
On trains and buses
Tap the same card when entering and leaving train gates. With a mobile card, use the same device to exit. Buses may require a tap on boarding, on getting off, or both; follow the signs at the door and on board.
Each train passenger needs a separate card. Buy a ticket for the whole journey before travelling across separate IC service areas or to a station that does not accept the card.
At convenience stores, hotels and shops
Use it at merchants displaying SAPICA acceptance. A shop accepting Suica or ICOCA does not necessarily accept SAPICA.
Say the card name at checkout, then tap when the amount appears on the reader. If your balance is too low, ask whether the shop allows split payment with cash or another card.
Official coverage and exceptions ↗ · Checked 2026-10-17
Where can you get a refund, and what is the fee?
Return it to a refund counter handling SAPICA. Bring identification for a registered card. Cards with commuter passes must go to the company that issued the pass.
Remaining balance − refund fee + deposit
If the balance is lower than the fee, only the remaining balance is deducted. Points and commuter passes are handled separately. Rounding rules and identification requirements differ by card.
You can keep the card for another trip. To return it now, check the refund counter’s opening hours and bring your card and any required identification.
SAPICA Official refund locations and conditions ↗ · Checked 2026-10-17
Can you use it without a physical card?
This card cannot be added to Apple Wallet. To travel without a physical card, add Suica, PASMO or ICOCA in Wallet instead. Tap your device on routes accepting that mobile card.
Apple Wallet setup and top-up steps →Sources: Apple Support · Checked 2026-10-17