Travel Information

Climate

In September, it is still very hot in Kyoto. The highest temperature is 34 Celsius, and the lowest temperature is 14 Celsius. The average precipitation is 330 mm. Light clothes are recommended and cardigans and other similar kinds may also be handy according to the day because the temperature might fall.

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-up transformer is required to convert the voltage. 2-PIN 2-PIN + EARTH

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 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.

Duty Free Import

Personal effects and professional equipment can be brought into Japan duty free as long as their contents and quantities are deemed reasonable by the customs officer.
You can also bring in 400 cigarettes, 500 grams of tobacco or 100 cigars; 3 bottles of alcoholic beverages; 2 ounces of perfume; and gifts and souvenirs whose total market price is less than 200,000 yen or its equivalent. There is no allowance for tobacco or alcoholic beverages for persons aged 19 years or younger. Firearms and other types of weapons, and narcotics are strictly prohibited.

Tipping

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.