Suica tap at the gate is offline FeliCa. It does not give you Google Maps, hotel Wi-Fi passwords, or a way to top up the card in the app.

Welcome Suica Mobile (JR East, as of March 2026): 180 days, no refund. iOS / watchOS. Most phones sold outside Japan still have no FeliCa, so Wallet cannot hold Suica. Buy a physical tourist IC at the airport if that is you.

eSIM is a different radio. Check *#06# for an EID. Install on home Wi-Fi the night before Narita so you are not doing QR codes in immigration.

Dated note: https://before-you-land.tiiny.site/japan/need-esim/

Disclosure: the Airalo button on that page is a Travelpayouts affiliate link. Ubigi and Holafly stay official.