JAPAN PRE-DEPARTURE GUIDE. Vietnam Cambodia Laos Thailand Myanmar China Hong Kong Japan Indonesia Singapore Malaysia

Similar documents
CHINA PRE-DEPARTURE GUIDE. Vietnam I Cambodia I Laos I Thailand I Myanmar China I Hong Kong I Japan I Indonesia I Singapore Malaysia

CHINA PRE-DEPARTURE GUIDE. Vietnam Cambodia Laos Thailand Myanmar China Hong Kong Japan Indonesia Singapore Malaysia

HONG KONG PRE-DEPARTURE GUIDE. Vietnam I Cambodia I Laos I Thailand I Myanmar China I Hong Kong I Japan I Indonesia I Singapore Malaysia

Pre Departure Guide HONG KONG

ITU Regional Workshop on Digital Financial Inclusion : Policies and Regulation. Information for participants

Information for participants

P O N S. Living in Seoul

Exchange Report. Nanyang Technological University Singapore Business Spring 2017

What's Not Included. International flights and visa Tipping - an entirely personal gesture Laundry, drinks, items of a personal nature

Japan is a country where the past meets the future; with ancient temples and kimono-clad geisha hurrying between traditional tea houses in Kyoto, to

discover! cambodia temples! CAMBODIA ADVENTURE SummerCampThailand.com

Information for participants

Nara - Visit shrines and temples, explore Nara Park and feed the unabashed deer. What's Included


CHRISTMAS MARKETS OF GERMANY

during your stay. The cooking school is located just a few minutes from the hotel.

Education Leadership Learning Exchange. Guangzhou, China March 15-28, 2014

2018/19 expected to be the second year of surplus

Coffee market ends 2017/18 in surplus

Soft Commodity Markets - Upcoming Milestones, and How the Market Could Be Affected

Coffee market remains volatile but lacks direction

Market Brief for Seafood Expo Asia. Hong Kong & Macau, Makret Dynamic Markets for U.S. Exports

Module 1: About Réunion

Welcome to Ishinomaki!

Events what s on AUG 2AUG 19 MELBOURNE INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL SEP 15OCT 14 FLORIADE CANBERRA JUN 30 JUL 22

Market Brief for Asia Fruit Logistica. Hong Kong & Macau, Makret Dynamic Markets for U.S. Exports

Paris rd 6 th November

All About Madrid. Powerful solutions for powerful people

Thailand Elephant Sanctuary

Prices for all coffee groups increased in May

Chateau D'aleny Region: Burgundy Sleeps: 34

Travelling to Australia

Coffee market ends 2016/17 coffee year in deficit for the third consecutive year

Part 1 - Monthly Activity Log January February March

ECON228: Study Tour to South America - The Economics of the Wine Industry

Q u a l i t y W e l c o m e E x c l u s i v e n e s s

Downward correction as funds respond to increasingly positive supply outlook

Global Trade in Mangoes

Retail & Food Vendor Application

KENTHOLIDAYS (S) PTE LTD Tel:

Hospitality Terms & Conditions

Spotlight on New Orleans

2013 BOC Visa Card Hong Kong Disneyland Special Offers Terms and Conditions

Europe Made Easy. A division of Graham Euro Designs, Inc State Highway 46 West, Suite New Braunfels, TX 78132

Hospitality Terms & Conditions

Currency Prices Airport Rules We Have to Respect Weather Entertainment Plug, Electricity, Toilet Transportation Emergency Numbers

The most classic dim sum dishes are steam shrimp dumpling, shao mai (shrimp & pork dumpling), spring roll, BBQ pork bun.

Coffee prices rose slightly in January 2019

KENTHOLIDAYS (S) PTE LTD Tel:

DEVELOPMENTS IN STEEL SCRAP IN 2009

Record exports from Brazil weigh heavy on the coffee market

SAMPLE FILE - Thailand Exports of Fresh mangoes

Victorian Bar Mediation Centre Information Guide

Gavin Quinney s Bordeaux Report

Exchange semester: Academic year:

Travel Guide Munich READ ONLINE

California Dreamin. La Villa Cucina - Presents the Food & Wine of Napa and Sonoma! A message from Daniel!

1 Travel the World. Make a Difference. Guatemala Program

Frequently Asked Questions Little Mix Timings. What are the timings of the event? 3pm All official car parks open

Dairy Outlook. December By Jim Dunn Professor of Agricultural Economics, Penn State University. Market Psychology

INFORMATION NOTE FOR PARTICIPANTS

July marks another month of continuous low prices

ACCOMMODATION FACILITIES AND SERVICES

ONE DAY KIMONO WEARING EXPERIENCE

World coffee consumption increases but prices still low

Candidate Agreement. The American Wine School (AWS) WSET Level 4 Diploma in Wines & Spirits Program PURPOSE

MONTHLY COFFEE MARKET REPORT

Coffee market continues downward trend

DESTINATION TRAINING GUIDES

RATES & PROGRAMS. Valid from January 1st to December 31st

DATES: JUNE 18-20,2012 VENUE: EKO PARK KRAŠ, CROATIA ph fax

R E T R E A T I N F O R M A T I O N

10 days for Coffee in Ethiopia

Welcome to Options Tavern and thank you for your interest in our venue for your proposed function.

Volatility returns to the coffee market as prices stay low

2.1 Dining vouchers AmBank B1F1 Deals are not valid in conjunction with B.Y.O (bring your own liquor) or Corkage Fees

International Table Grape Symposium November 2014 Australian Table Grapes Jeff Scott Chief Executive Officer

16th Annual Oodles of Noodles Festival & Pasta-Cook Off June 3, am to 6 pm Historic Downtown Dayton, Nevada

Record exports in coffee year 2017/18

much better than in As may be seen in Table 1, the futures market prices for the next 12 months

INTRODUCTION PACK. your first time WITH CLUB MED

Il Palio di Siena Tuscany & Umbria

ALL IN ONE. TEL: FAX: MIHARASHI FARM HP

WHICH FUNDRAISER SUITS YOUR GROUP THIS WINTER.

Germany th 14 th November

QRC CATERING & EVENTS MEETING ROOMS ABOUT US CONTENTS MEETING ROOMS 3. Meeting Room Hire 4. Additional Services & Equipment 8 CATERING SERVICES 9

CARIBBEAN TRAVEL AND PREFERENCE FORM

Banquet documentation

Middle east: New Market Trend

Wine Country Gardens with Dee Montpetit April 26 th - April 30 th, 2019

Fresh Deciduous Fruit (Apples, Grapes, & Pears): World Markets and Trade

THE OFFICE WE LOOK FORWARD TO WELCOMING YOU CONTACT US

Congress Information. Date: Saturday to Tuesday, November 26-29, 2016

Washington State Wine 101

Networkers Business Update. December 2014

Laos PRE-DEPARTURE INFORMATION LAOS PRE-DEPARTURE INFORMATION

Istanbul & Gallipoli 5 days Starts/Ends: Istanbul

RAF Upper Heyford Reunion. SEPTEMBER 26 th SEPTEMBER 30 th, 2018 Branson, Missouri

INTRODUCTION PACK. your irst time WITH CLUB MED

This luxurious train offers unique journeys that capture the mystical wonders and cultures of Thailand and Singapore.

Transcription:

JAPAN PRE-DEPARTURE GUIDE Vietnam Cambodia Laos Thailand Myanmar China Hong Kong Japan Indonesia Singapore Malaysia 11

JAPAN AT A GLANCE JAPAN Tokyo TABLE OF CONTENTS GENERAL INFORMATION HEALTH AND SAFETY CULTURE AND CUSTOMS HELPFUL TIPS PRE-DEPARTURE CHECKLIST P3 P6 P7 P9 P10 JAPAN Population: 127,3 million Capital City: Tokyo (13.35 million) People: Japanese Language: Japanese Currency: Japanese Yen Time Zone: UTC +9 Hrs International Dialing Code: +81 ABOUT JAPAN The magical nation of Japan offers a truly unique blend of traditional and futuristic elements. Nestled just off the eastern coast of Asia, it has both stunning natural scenery and a hub of cultural adventure waiting to be discovered. Intriguing juxtapositions can be found across the country with peaceful Zen gardens a stone s throw away from the neon lights of downtown Tokyo. Contemporary art museums flank century-old Buddhist temples and modern cityscapes full of skyscrapers are only a train ride away from the impressive natural beauty of Mount Fuji. 2

GENERAL INFORMATION PASSPORT AND VISA Passports should be valid for six months from the date of entry to Japan. For citizens of over 50 countries, Japan has a general visa exemption arrangement and you only need a valid passport to enter the country as a temporary visitor. Travellers from the majority of these countries are allowed to stay in the country for up to 90 days. However, if you are not a citizen of one of these countries, you should obtain a visa before entering Japan. All travellers should note that foreign tourists are required to carry passports with them at all times. USA citizens: http://japan.usembassy.gov/e/acs/tacs- 7108b.html UK citizens: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/ japan/entry-requirements AUS citizens: http://australia.or.jp/en/visa/ MONEY The currency used in Japan is the Yen. Smaller denominations are in the form of coins and come as 1 yen, 5 yen, 10 yen, 50 yen and 500 yen. Larger denominations come as notes in 1,000 yen, 2,000 yen (very rare), 5,000 yen and 10,000 yen. The preferred method of payment in Japan is cash, especially when buying things for small amounts of money. However, credit and debit cards are increasingly being accepted in major cities. The majority of hotels will accept payments by credit card, as do many department stores, mid- to high-end restaurants, large retail shops and outlet malls. 33

GENERAL INFORMATION INTERNET ACCESS AND COMMUNICATION It is easy to get connected to the internet in Japan as the majority of hotels offer free internet in their rooms. There are also a number of wireless (Wi-Fi) hotspots throughout the country, both free and paid. There are often publically accessible hotspots in airports, train stations, hotels, restaurants, coffee shops and bars, all of which can be connected to by laptops and mobile devices. If you wish to use the internet freely in Japan, rental or prepaid SIM cards are available with unlimited internet access via the cellular phone network. TRANSPORTATION Getting There The most popular intercontinental flight destination is Narita Airport which is about one hour east of Tokyo. Haneda Airport, in Tokyo, is primarily for domestic flights but has recently completed an expansion allowing for more international services. This means there many more flights are becoming available to this more convenient airport. The two major airlines in Japan are Japan Airlines and All Nippon Airways. Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, and American Airlines also operate many flights to and from Narita, with a wide choice of flights to destinations in the US and Asia. Getting Around Japan has an efficient public transportation network that operates punctually and reliably within metropolitan areas and between the large cities. The Japanese public transportation is recognized for having superb service but it is also extremely busy. The best option for tourists who plan to do a lot of travelling in Japan is the Japan Rail Pass. This allows unlimited travel on most JR trains, including the Shinkansen. 4

GENERAL INFORMATION There are also plenty of taxis in Japan, both in the city and in the countryside. They are usually clean and safe but a little expensive. Within the city, feel free to hail a taxi from anywhere, but outside of train stations and transfer points you should board only at taxi stands. CLIMATE You will encounter all four seasons in Japan, each with quite DIFFERENT weather. Although the Japanese tend to be proud of their different seasons, tourists with a flexible travel schedule should aim for spring or autumn. Spring is a great time of year to visit Japan as the temperature is comfortably warm, not too hot. Rain is minimal, and in March to April the justly famous cherry blossoms (sakura) appear and there are many festivals to enjoy. Summer begins with a dull rainy season in June and quickly develops into a steam-bath in July-August, with temperatures as high as 35C and intense humidity. Autumn starts in September and is an excellent time to be in Japan. The temperature and humidity become more tolerable and fall colours take over the scenery, which can be just as beautiful as cherry blossom. However, it s worth noting that there are often typhoons in southern parts of Japan in early autumn which can cause problems with transport. Winter is a good time to go skiing or visit the hot-springs, but as some buildings lack central heating, it can also be extremely cold indoors. In Hokkaido and northeast Japan is often snows heavily due to the cold blasts of wind from Siberia. CITY Tokyo TEMPERATURE ( o C) RAINFALL Volume (mm) Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 5 43 6 58 9 94 14 119 18 132 21 181 25 128 26 147 23 181 18 158 12 84 8 44 55

HEALTH AND SAFETY HEALTH AND WELL-BEING The healthcare system in Japan is of a very high standard with excellent medical services, facilities, and widely distributed pharmacies. You are strongly recommended to consult your doctor or home country s travel clinic for the latest information on appropriate vaccinations. VACCINATIONS Ensure that you have adequate vaccinations and protection against disease before entering Japan. You should contact your doctor at least two months before your departure for the latest medical advice. TRAVEL INSURANCE (RECOMMENDED) Buffalo Tours does everything possible to ensure you have a safe journey. However, travel inevitably involves some risks which holiday-makers should proactively plan for. Travel insurance is an ideal way to protect you and your belongings should any problems occur, such as delays, cancelled trips, medical emergencies, baggage loss or damage. We urge you to make sure your chosen travel insurance covers all of the activities that you have planned for your trip. 6

CULTURE & CUSTOMS ETIQUETTE AND CULTURAL DIFFERENCES Many tourists will agree that learning about other cultures is one of the greatest joys of travelling. Learning a few important customs of the Japanese people will ensure that you are seen as respectful by locals and will help make your visit more enjoyable: DO: Bowing when meeting people is seen as respectful. Women should bow with their hands together in front of them and men should bow with their hands to their sides. When giving things to someone, it s considered polite to hand the item over with both hands. In Japanese society, the elderly are given special respect. Amongst other privileges, note that some seats ( silver seats ) on trains are reserved for the disabled and the elderly. Make sure you follow the special cleansing procedure before entering a Shinto Shrine or a Buddhist Temple. There are very few trash cans in public so you may have to carry around your trash for a while before finding one. DON T: Don t walk on a tatami mat wearing shoes or slippers. Japanese homes and traditional Japanese hotel rooms have a genkan where you should take your shoes off before stepping back onto the boarded area of the floor. Don t stand your chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice as that is how rice is offered to the dead. Avoid physical contact in public. You will 77

CULTURE & CUSTOMS notice that you do not see Japanese people kissing or hugging. Avoid speaking loudly in public. Many trains even have signs advising you not to use mobile phones while onboard. FOOD AND DRINK Japanese cuisine tends to be based on rice with miso soup and dishes with an emphasis on seasonal ingredients. Many side dishes usually consist of fish, pickled vegetables, and broths filled with vegetables. It is common for the fish to be grilled but it is also served raw in sushi or as sashimi. There is also plenty of deep-fried seafood and vegetables known as tempura. Sushi (raw fish and rice) Tempura (deep-fried prawn) Udon (Japanese noodles) Yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) Okonomiyaki (Japanese pancake) PUBLIC HOLIDAYS The following is a list of all Public Holidays in Japan. Most businesses will be closed on these dates and regular transportation may be affected. New Year s Day: Jan 1 Coming of Age Day: 2nd Monday of Jan Foundation Day: Feb 11 Vernal Equinox Day: Mar 20 or 21 Showa Day: April 29 Constitution Memorial Day: May 3 Greenery Day: May 4 Children s Day: May 5 Marine Day: 3rd Monday of July Mountain Day: August 11 Respect for the Aged Day: 3rd Monday of Sep Autumnal Equinox Day: Sep 22 or 23 Health and Sports Day: 2nd Monday of Oct Culture Day: Nov 3 Labour Thanksgiving Day: Nov 23 The Emperor s Birthday: Dec 23 8

HELPFUL TIPS TIPPING Tipping doesn t really exist in Japan, and leaving tips can often be seen as an insult. The Japanese customer service is quite legendary, and you certainly don t need to bribe the staff to do their job properly. Local train cost: JPY 1,000 2,000 per day Sushi: JPY 1,000-3000 PRICE GUIDE Food Street food: from JPY 800 Restaurant: JPY 1,200 3,500 Drinks Soft drinks: JPY 200-400 Beer: JPY 250-500 Water: JPY 150 300 Coffee: JPY 250 400 Other items Shorts/T-shirts: JPY 1,000 6000 99

PRE-DEPARTURE CHECKLIST Travel insurance Passport with at least six months validity from date of entry Photocopy of passport Visa Vaccinations Foreign currency (Yen) and/or ATM card All relevant tickets Reconfirmed flights Light weight clothing (particularly for summer and autumn) Warm clothing (especially in winter and/or for the south) Appropriate shoes for trekking, cycling or walking Insect repellent Medication First aid kit Adaptor 100V, 50/60 Hz; Type A or B Small daypack (for day and overnight trips) Water bottle Please note: Domestic airlines impose restrictions on baggage at approximately 20kg maximum, so travel lightly where possible. Our very best wishes for your journey. BUFFALO TOURS OFFICE IN JAPAN Tokyo Office: 16-9-301 Tomihisacho, Shinjuku-ku Tokyo Japan 104-0033 T: +81 3 5357 7146 F: +81 3 5357 7147 Email: japan@buffalotours.com 10