Originally Posted by
Sandeep1
I had a regular one but it malfunctioned towards the end of my last trip, and basically had a zero balance. So I just wanted to acquire a new one ahead of my upcoming trip in a few weeks. But seems like I'll have to wait until I arrive, or I'll look into the digital option.
The JapanTransit app by Jorudan has a built in IC balance checker (under ... Menu) to confirm zero balance, at least on the iPhone version. Not saying your card can't malfunction, just perhaps it is stuck in an open trip or something else which can be cleared at a staffed gate to save you a bit of effort/yen.
ETA: JapanTransit shows physical IC stored value balance but not the last transaction date. "Japan train card balance check" app will show the transaction dates. US app store link
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/japan-...k/id1479319615