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, and restaurants.
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 Matsue.
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
Matsue has a humid subtropical climate with very warm summers and cool winters. Precipitation is abundant throughout the year, and is somewhat heavier in June, July and September. The weather remains warm, but is not hot in Matsue during the period of the conference with the temperature ranging between 13 to 22℃.
Shopping
Shops and other sales outlets in Japan are generally open on Saturdays, Sundays and national holidays as well as weekdays from 10:00 to 20:00. Department stores, however, are closed on one weekday, differing by store, and certain specialty shops may not open on Sundays and national holidays. |
