JJapan Trips

Do I need to do anything special to get smart ex to accept my cards to buy shinkansen tickets? It doesn’t verify them successfully!

I tried all the cards I have with me and none worked

* Visa Debit Card
* Visa Credit Card
* Mastercard Credit Card
* Apple Credit Card

I tried both on the app and on the website, am I supposed to enter the numbers in a special way or is there an option I’m supposed to check or anything like that?

by advice_throwaway_90

5 comments

  1. I’m gonna say none of your cards are accepted. SmartEx has been blocking a lot of Visa/Mastercards as of late. Amex does work, and the only one I’ve heard people use with high success (I also use an Amex).

    Try JR-West’s site.

  2. Make sure you’re registering during Japan working hours. Same with iOS Suica. If you’re trying to do it from the US you’re probably attempting to do it overnight in Japan.

    Also I couldn’t get any Visa or Mastercard to work. Only AMEX and Discover.

  4. I was able to use my discover it card. Just try every card a friend or family member has and send them the money if you are successful

  5. I’ve used a debit Mastercard (so actual money in my checking account) during Japan business hours with success.

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