Do you need a Suica or IC card in Japan?
You do not need one, but almost everyone uses one. The card is tapped at the gate instead of buying a ticket for each ride, works on trains, buses and most convenience stores, and can be topped up at any machine. Have it in your hand before you reach the gate — the queue behind you moves at the speed of the slowest tap.
Where this answer comes from
Say it in Japanese
Show the card to the staff. The Japanese, how to read it, and the recorded voice.