Okinawa is a group of islands in subtropical zone of the southwestern Japan. Surrounded by the crystal blue waters and the corral reefs, Okinawa is the favored destination resort of Japan for diving and swimming.

Until 19th century, Okinawa was an independent kingdom, the Kingdom of the Ryukyus. As a tributary of China, Okinawa thrived with prosperous trade covering an extensive area of Korea, Japan and Southeast Asia. The mixed cultural influences from that era give Okinawa unique heritage of traditional performing arts, ceramics and crafts.

Naha Airport is the main airport for Okinawa. There are regular domestic connections from Kansai (Osaka International), Haneda (Tokyo Domestic)，Narita Airport (Tokyo International) and Fukuoka Airports. International flights are available from Taipei, Seoul, Hong Kong and Shanghai. (As of September 2010)

Passport and Visas
All foreign visitors entering Japan must have a valid passport. Delegates from countries requiring a visa should apply to the Japanese consular office or diplomatic mission in their country prior to departure. For details, participants should contact their local travel agents or consular offices.

Currency Exchange
Only Japanese yen is accepted at regular stores and restaurants. Foreign currency exchange is available at the banks and the hotels on presentation of your passport. Bank business hours are from 9:00 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Traveler's Checks and Credit Cards
Traveler's checks are not as popular in Japan as in other countries and are accepted only by banks and major hotels in principal cities. Master Card, Diners Club, Visa, American Express and Diamond Credit are widely accepted at hotels, department stores, shops, restaurants, and nightclubs.

Tipping
There is no custom of individual tipping in Japan. Tips are usually included in the bill as a service charge, if needed.

Electrical Current
Japan operates on 100-110 volts for electrical appliances. The frequency is 60 Hz in western Japan, including Okinawa.

Insurance
Conference organizers will not accept responsibility for individual, medical, travel or personal insurance, and participants are advised to take out their own insurance policies.

Climate
The climate is warm in Okinawa during the period of the conference with the temperature ranging between 25 degrees C.