All foreign
participants visit Japan must carry a valid passport. Visas will also be
required in many cases. Since visa application system is very strict and takes
much time to get visa. So we recommend anyone who needs a visa should apply
early enough.
For further
information to enter Japan, please see the home page of the Ministry of
Foreign Affairs, or contact with the nearest Japanese Embassy (or
Consulate) or their travel agencies.
At the time of
year in which the BCP4 will be held, it’s mid of winter in Japan, the average
Max temperature is 10 degrees centigrade, Min. is 2 degrees centigrade.
The local
currency is Japanese Yen. The exchange rate is approx. US$1.00 = JPY110.- Main
international currencies such as U.S. Dollars, Deutsche Marks, French Francs
and Pounds etc. can be changed at the international airports or authorized
banks. But some currencies are not acceptable. And banking hours is 9:00 to
15:00, Monday through Friday except National Holidays. So we recommend you to
exchange your currencies to Japanese Yen before you leave your country or upon
arrival at international airports in Japan. Cash is still
the most popular way of payment in Japan, credit cards gradually be common,
VISA, Master Card, Diners Club and American Express are widely accepted at
hotels, major stores and restaurants. Traveler’s
checks in Japanese Yen or U.S. Dollars must be exchanged for cash at authorized
banks or major hotels. The use of traveler’s checks is rather limited. Personal Checks
are NOT common in Japan. In Japan,
Tipping is NOT common, even at hotels and restaurants. JAPAN RAIL PASS (JR PASS) Foreign
visitors can use a convenient and economical pass for traveling in Japan by JR
(Japan Railways). Please ask your travel agencies for details. The Japan Rail
Pass can NOT be purchased in Japan. CURRENCY AND EXCHANGE
TIPPING