Maximize Your ANA Miles in Tokyo: The Ultimate Guide to Using Metro Points and the Soratama Card

Hello there. I’m a miles enthusiast who efficiently collects both JAL miles and ANA miles as a “value traveler.” In this article, I’ll discuss how to efficiently earn ANA miles using Tokyo Metro’s Metro Point Club (MetPo) and the Sorachika Card.

I collect miles for both JAL and ANA airlines—JAL miles primarily through point-earning activities with the Moppy service, and ANA miles mainly through shopping and Tokyo Metro usage with MetPo and the Sorachika Card. Using these methods, I manage to collect about 150,000 miles annually for each airline. Today, I’ll focus on ANA miles and share my experience with you.

For information on efficiently collecting JAL miles using Moppy, please check out this article!

MetPo Basics and Ranking System

“MetPo” is Tokyo Metro’s point program. You earn points every time you use Tokyo Metro with your registered PASMO card, and these points can be exchanged for ANA miles. MetPo points accumulate not only from Tokyo Metro rides and commuter pass purchases but can also increase dramatically by participating in events such as weekend Metro unlimited passes or Tozai Line off-peak commuting programs.

The introduction of a ranking system has significantly enhanced MetPo’s appeal. There are four ranking levels: “Regular,” “Silver,” “Gold,” and “Platinum,” with point accrual rates increasing progressively as your rank rises.

Ranks and Point Accrual Rates

While there’s no point accrual at the Regular rank, Silver rank earns 3% of the usage amount, Gold rank earns 5%, and the highest Platinum rank earns a remarkable 10% in points. For every 1 yen spent on Tokyo Metro fares, you earn 1 rank score. Additionally, weekday rides during off-peak hours (10:30 AM to 4:30 PM) earn a 50 rank score bonus per day, and weekend/holiday rides earn a 70 rank score bonus per day.

For example, if you take three rides costing 209 yen each, with one ride on a weekend, your rank score would be 209 × 3 + 70 = 697 rank scores, qualifying you for Silver rank (600–2,999 rank scores).

Sorachika Card: The Key to Maximizing MetPo

To maximize MetPo benefits, I highly recommend applying for the Sorachika Card (ANA To Me CARD PASMO JCB card). This card was once famous among point-collecting enthusiasts, though its popularity has declined following recent specification changes (discontinuation of the “Sorachika route”). However, the benefits of the Sorachika Card remain substantial for PASMO users.

Excellent Exchange Rate

Sorachika Card (ANA To Me CARD PASMO JCB) holders can exchange points for ANA miles at an impressive rate of 100 points = 90 miles (90%). Compared to the regular MetPo membership rate of 1,000 points = 500 miles (50%), the difference is significant.

Small Batch Exchanges Possible

While general members can only exchange points in units of 1,000, Sorachika Card holders can exchange as few as 100 points at a time, allowing for more frequent conversions to miles even with smaller point balances. This reduces concerns about mile expiration and minimizes wasted points.

Points Accumulate from Daily Use

The Sorachika Card is a PASMO card with credit card functionality. Points accumulate not only from Tokyo Metro usage but also from everyday shopping. It’s highly efficient because miles naturally accumulate without requiring any special actions.

Efficient Point Accumulation Methods

Prioritize Tokyo Metro for Commuting and Outings

Whenever possible, choose Tokyo Metro over JR or other private railways. Even if it means taking a slightly longer route, the difference in mile accumulation over the long term can be significant.

Utilize the Off-Peak Project

If you live along the Tozai Line, you can earn bonus points by avoiding peak congestion times. On days when your work schedule is flexible, consciously aim for a later commute.

Make Use of Station Shops

When using your Sorachika Card at convenience stores, bookstores, and other shops within the station, you earn both regular credit card points and MetPo points. This double-point earning is a valuable strategy.

Purchase Commuter Passes with the Sorachika Card

It’s better to use your Sorachika Card when purchasing commuter passes. Since these are high-value transactions, you can earn a substantial number of points at once.

Take Advantage of Campaigns

Regularly check for campaign information from Tokyo Metro and Sorachika Card to avoid missing opportunities for bonus points.

Points to Note and Advice

While the combination of MetPo and the Sorachika Card is powerful, there are a few important points to consider.

First, it takes 1-2 months from the point exchange request until the ANA miles are actually reflected in your account. Be careful if you have miles approaching their expiration date. Also, charge-specific points (earned through programs like the Off-Peak Project) cannot be exchanged for ANA miles. Use these effectively for charging your PASMO card.

Summary: Steadily Save for a Big Trip

The combination of MetPo and the Sorachika Card is a highly efficient method for steadily accumulating ANA miles without any special effort. It’s very appealing to have your essential daily activities like commuting and shopping gradually become the foundation for wonderful travel opportunities.

While mile accumulation doesn’t happen overnight, by skillfully utilizing this system, you can likely accelerate your pace more than expected. I encourage everyone to gradually save miles through daily life and create wonderful travel memories!