Travel Information

Climate

In August, it is very hot and humid in Nagoya. 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

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 unaccompanied baggage that are for personal use, are free of duties and/or taxes within the allowance specified below. If you have both personal effects and unaccompanied baggage, please consider them together when referring to the allowance. Clothes, toiletry articles, and other personal effects that are for personal use, as well as professional equipment that will be used during your stay in Japan, are all free of duties and/or taxes, if they are considered quantitatively appropriate and are not for sale.

More Information for the "Customs Declaration"
http://www.jnto.go.jp/eng/arrange/essential/customs.html

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.

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.

Passport & Visa

All foreign visitors entering Japan must possess a valid passport. Participants from countries requiring a visa to enter Japan should obtain one from the nearest Japanese embassy or consulate in good time. If documents to be issued by the conference committee are necessary for the visa application (invitation letter, etc.), please contact the ICCGE-18 secretary or ISSCG-16 secretary.