Travel Information
Climate
In July, it is very hot and humid in Kyoto. The highest temperature is over 30 Celsius (86 Fahrenheit), and the lowest temperature is around 22 Celsius (71.6 Fahrenheit). The average precipitation is 250 mm. Light clothes are recommended, and cardigans and other similar kinds may also be handy, since indoor facilities are mostly air-conditioned.
Electricity
In Japan, 2-flat-pin plugs are used instead of columnar-shaped plugs or 3-pin plugs. The voltage used throughout Japan is uniformly 100 volts, A.C. There are two kinds of frequencies in use; 60 Hertz in western Japan (including Kyoto) and 50 Hertz in eastern Japan. A convertible type of electrical appliances such as a travel iron, hair dryer, and shaver will therefore be handy. Otherwise, a step-down transformer is required to convert the voltage.
Passport and Visa
Any foreign visitors desiring to enter Japan must have a valid passport. A visa is required for citizens of countries that do not have visa exempt agreements with Japan. Please check the following URL for your visa requirements and contact the nearest Japanese Embassy or Consulate when you need to apply for a visa.
http://www.mofa.go.jp/j_info/visit/visa/index.html
We will be able to provide the documents necessary for visa application for the participants who have completed their online registration. For more details, please contact the ICSM 2010 Registration Desk by e-mail (icsm2010@or.knt.co.jp) or fax (+81-6-6202-7921).
Currency & Foreign Exchange
The local currency is Japanese Yen (JPY). Japanese money comes in bills (1,000, 2,000, 5,000 and 10,000 yen) and coins (1, 5, 10, 50, 100 and 500 yen). Major currencies, such as the US dollar and EURO, can be exchanged at the Kyoto International Conference Center, as well as at international airports, major banks and major hotels. Banks are open from 9:00 to 15:00 on Monday to Friday.
Traveler's Checks and Credit Cards
Traveler's checks are accepted by leading banks and hotels in major cities. International credit cards such as American Express, VISA, Diners Club, MasterCard and JCB are also acceptable at these major establishments. Credit card transactions, however, are not always convenient outside big cities. Therefore, obtaining cash beforehand is recommended when you travel to the countryside.
Tip
Tipping is not necessary unless you request some extra special service. Individual tipping is not common in Japan, since a 10 to 15 % service charge is added to the bill at major hotels and higher-class restaurants.
Food and Water
There are many restaurants and cafeterias in Kyoto City, where you may enjoy a variety of foods and drinks at affordable prices. You may also buy snacks at supermarkets, convenience stores and other similar shops. Tap water is safe to drink anywhere in Japan.
Time Zone
Japan is in a single time zone, nine hours ahead of GMT. No Daylight Saving Time is in effect.
Insurance
The organizers do not accept responsibility for individual medical, travel or personal insurance. Participants are advised to take out their own personal insurance policy.