Exclusive ICOCA cards go on sale at Osaka Expo 2025
JR West has announced the release of a special “Osaka-Kansai Expo Commemorative ICOCA” card, along with a range of related merchandise.
The ICOCA card, introduced by JR West in 2003, has become an integral part of daily life for residents and visitors in the Kansai region.
ICOCA cards are a rechargeable contactless smart card (IC card) used to pay train and bus fares as well as purchases at participating retailers.
The Osaka-Kansai Expo will run from April 13th to October 13th, 2025 and is expected to attract millions of visitors from around the world.
The commemorative ICOCA card features a unique design that highlights the friendship between JR West’s mascot, “Iko-chan the Platypus”, and the official mascot of the Osaka-Kansai Expo, “Myakumyaku”.
The illustration on the new ICOCA card captures the two mascots enjoying some of Osaka’s famous culinary offerings, aiming to convey the vibrant charm of Osaka and the broader Kansai region to travelers nationwide.
The card serves not only as a functional travel pass but also as a collectible item.
The commemorative ICOCA card itself is priced at 1,000 yen, which includes a 500 yen refundable deposit.
However, JR West is offering the card as part of several limited-edition merchandise sets, catering to collectors and Expo enthusiasts.
These sets include:
“Expo Commemorative ICOCA + Iko-chan/Myakumyaku Station Staff Plush Toy with Card Case”
This premium set includes the commemorative ICOCA card, a plush toy featuring both Iko-chan and Myakumyaku dressed in station staff uniforms, and a dedicated card case.
“Expo Commemorative ICOCA + Iko-chan or Myakumyaku Plush Toy Card Case”
This set features the commemorative ICOCA card and a card case accompanied by an Iko-chan or Myakumyaku plush toy.
“Expo Commemorative ICOCA + Original Pass Case”
This set includes the commemorative ICOCA card and an original pass case featuring the Expo-themed design.
These items will be sold at the official JR West Group store located within the Osaka-Kansai Expo site.
Additionally, JR West plans to offer a limited number of these sets for sale at select locations outside the Expo venue, providing broader access to those unable to attend the Expo itself.
Source: Travel Watch
Images: © Travel Watch