ISF2014

Information on Japan is available from the Japan National Tourism Organization http://www.jnto.go.jp/eng/

General Information
	Passport and Visa All foreign nationals wishing to enter Japan is required to present a valid passport at the port of entry. Visas are not required for participants from countries with Reciprocal Visa Exemption Arrangements with Japan. Those who are from other countries are required to apply for a visa, but usually entry into Japan within 90 days is relatively easy. Note that since the process may take time, try applying well in advance of making final travel arrangements at a local Japanese embassy or consulate. The local arrangement committee will prepare necessary documents such as an official invitation letter from our Committee upon request. Further information regarding the visa acquisition could be found in the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs site.

	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. Strictly prohibited are firearms and other types of weapons, and narcotics.

	Insurance The organizer cannot accept responsibility for accidents that might occur. Delegates are encouraged to purchase travel insurance before leaving their home country. Insurance plans typically cover accidental loss of belongings, medical costs in case of injury or illness, and other possible risks of international travel.

	Climate The temperature in Tokyo during the period of the conference ranges between 20 to 25 degrees Celsius.

	Electricity Electric supply is uniformly 100 volts, AC, throughout Japan, but with two different cycles: 50Hz in eastern Japan including Tokyo, and 60Hz in western Japan including Kyoto, Nara and Osaka. Leading hotels in major cities have two outlets of 100 and 220 volts but their sockets usually accept a two-leg plug (type A) only.

	Shopping Shops and other sales outlets in Japan are generally open on Saturdays, Sundays and national holidays as well as weekdays from 10:00AM to 8:00PM. Department stores, however, are closed during one weekday, differing by store, and certain specialty shops may not open on Sundays and national holidays.