Launching the App and Initial Setup: To use teppay, you do not need to install a separate, dedicated app. On Android devices, update the “Mobile Suica” app to the latest version; on iPhones, update the “Suica” app to the latest version. Once you open either app, the teppay icon will appear on the screen. Simply tap this icon to switch to the teppay screen. If you’re already using the Suica app, you can start using teppay simply by agreeing to the terms of service—no complicated initial registration is required (*Service launch for PASMO is scheduled for spring 2027).
High-Value Top-Ups and the Long-Awaited Bank Account Top-Up: While the traditional Mobile Suica had a balance limit of 20,000 yen, teppay supports top-ups of up to 300,000 yen. Top-up methods include credit cards (View Card), bank accounts, and convenience store ATMs (cash). To top up via a View Card, registration is completed by performing SMS authentication when entering your card information. Once registered, simply specify the amount via the “Deposit” option in the app, and the funds will be added to your balance immediately. You can also use the teppay top-up feature to add funds from your bank account. Since bank account top-ups were discontinued for Mobile Suica in 2019, it can be said that convenience has greatly improved, even if it is done through Teppay. The identity verification page stated that bank account top-ups would become available after verification, but at the time of writing, bank account top-ups were possible even before verification was complete. Once identity verification is complete, the top-up limit is raised to a maximum of 100,000 yen per transaction (compared to a maximum of 50,000 yen before verification).
Seamless Peer-to-Peer Money Transfers: Sending money to other users using your teppay balance is another convenient feature. You can select a recipient by searching for their teppay ID or registered phone number, or by scanning a QR code or sharing a dedicated link (URL). You can choose the method that best suits the situation—such as using a QR code when meeting in person or a URL via a messaging app—and the funds are credited to the recipient’s balance almost instantly once the transfer is processed.
Trying Out Code Payments at a NewDays Store: teppay can be used at many stores throughout the city that support Smart Code. To check the payment process at a local store, I tried out code payments at the register of the “NewDays South Gate Shinjuku Building” location, where I had obtained permission to film. When making a payment, you can choose between two methods: displaying a barcode or QR code on your screen for the cashier to scan, or using your smartphone camera to scan a code displayed at the store. At the store where we made this payment, the transaction was completed smoothly simply by displaying the barcode screen and holding it up to the register terminal. Additionally, if you have a View Card registered, you can choose “View Card Linked Payment,” which deducts the amount directly from your card without needing to top up your balance beforehand. Payments made using your teppay balance earn a 0.5% cashback (teppay points), while View Card Linked Payments earn a 1.0% cashback (JRE POINT). Furthermore, when making payments at eligible station buildings and in-station shops within the JR East Group, users can earn up to 3.5% back, just like with the View Card. Please note that the points earned are displayed on the payment confirmation screen only when paying with the teppay balance. In November, limited-time campaigns—such as a 10% point rebate—will also be held. Please note that, according to View Card, amounts charged from a View Card to teppay are not eligible for points; therefore, when using the card, it is more advantageous to use “View Card Linked Payment” for point rebates, except when using gift certificates or Bari-Tike in conjunction with the card.
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