Hi All, I tried registering through the Smart Ex website (the app isn’t available for UK residents): [https://smart-ex.jp/en/index.php](https://smart-ex.jp/en/index.php)
However when I attempt to register with my MasterCard Credit Card (Halifax Clarity Card) and Starling Pre-Paid Debit Card, the site does not “register” these cards. It’s quite frustrating and I’m not sure what to do! Both are MasterCards. I even attempted with my Debit card (Visa) and that didn’t work.
I’ve noticed there’s a registration for IC Cards, and a friend who went to Japan 4 years ago lent me theirs. I’m wondering how the IC Card function works in regards to Smart Ex:
a) Can you top it directly to the IC Card (without having to register a credit card) and essentially use it like an Oyster Card?
or…
b) is the IC Card registration only available so that it gives you the ability to tap it on gates?
I’m also a bit nervous about how neither cards seem to work for Smart Ex website. Should I be worried that they might not potentially work at ATMs/7-Eleven? I’ve not had issues with Halifax Clarity Card before (it’s a card specifically meant for travelling!).
by knightjaime
1 comment
To answer your first question: it’s B. Shinkansen tickets bought through SmartEX (and other official sites like Ekinet) can be associated with IC cards so that the IC card can be used at the shinkansen gate (instead of a physical ticket).
When it comes to trains in Japan, shinkansen and other limited express trains require separate tickets (a base fare + a surcharge for the express part). But for local travel, you can just use the IC card like an Oyster Card, since it has stored value.
> I’m also a bit nervous about how neither cards seem to work for Smart Ex website. Should I be worried that they might not potentially work at ATMs/7-Eleven?
No, you shouldn’t have problems. The issues that people have with buying things with Visa and Mastercard is on Japanese websites, due to the payment processing/security that happens for those transactions. Physical payment terminals in Japan where you use your card won’t have issues (stores, restaurants, etc.).