isirv

<- Return to menu

General Information for Visiting Japan

About Tokyo:

Tokyo, the capital of Japan, is one of the largest cities of the world with a population of 13-million: http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2164.html

Weather:

The temperature in Tokyo during June ranges from 19 to 26 degrees Centigrade (66 to 79 degrees Fahrenheit). On average from early June to mid July, Tokyo will be in the rainy season and humidity is increasing. It is recommended to carry an umbrella during this period.

Time Zone:

GMT + 9 hours.

Currency:

Currency in Japan is the "yen."  Yen can be obtained at currency exchange desks at major airports around the world, Haneda Airport, Narita Airport and currency exchange shops in Tokyo. Exchange at the airport is recommended for your convenience. Most foreign currencies and travelers' cheques can be exchanged at banks and hotels. However, we highly recommend purchasing travelers' cheques or cash in Yen or U.S. dollars before leaving your home country. A passport may be required for currency exchange services.

Credit Cards:

Most hotels, major department stores and restaurants accept VISA, Master, JCB, Amex and Diners. However, small shops like station kiosks, convenience stores, vending machines and train tickets for short distances do not accept credit cards. It is advisable to bring cash to cover incidental expenses.

Traveller’s Cheques:

Traveller’s cheques are acceptable at most hotels and banks.

ATM:

Many automatic teller machines (ATMs) in Japan do not accept credit, debit and ATM cards, which are issued outside of Japan. The main exception are ATMs found at post offices and 7-Eleven convenience stores. These ATMs allow you to withdraw cash by credit and debit cards issued outside of Japan, including Visa, Plus, Mastercard, Maestro, Cirrus, American Express and JCB cards and provide an English user menu. In addition, international ATMs can be found at international airports, in major department stores, and in Citibank and Shinsei Bank branches.

Business Hours:

Electricity:

Voltage in Japan is 100V A.C., 2-flat-pin plug Type-A.  It is difficult to find 3-pin compatible sockets, 120V, 200V, and 220V.  An adapter is advised for the use of electrical equipment.

Water:

Tap water is safe to drink anywhere in Japan unless mentioned otherwise.  Bottled mineral water can be purchased at convenience stores, supermarkets, and kiosks, etc.

Smoking:

Smoking is prohibited inside most buildings and stations, except in designated smoking areas. In addition, around Shinjuku Station, smoking in pedestrian areas is also prohibited.

Tax:

Consumption tax is currently charged at 5%, and prices shown on the price tag include tax. From April 1, 2014, the consumption tax will be 8%.

Tipping:

Tipping is not common in Japan, and is not generally done in any situation.

Mobile Phone:

The major mobile phone carriers in Japan are NTT DoCoMo, Softbank, au KDDI and E-mobile.  Please contact your own mobile phone provider to establish whether you can use your mobile phone in Japan.

Japan Rail Pass:

The JAPAN RAIL PASS is offered by the six companies that make up the Japan Railways Group (JR Group). The JAPAN RAIL PASS is the most economical way to travel throughout Japan by JR Group lines. (Not applicable for subway and Meitetsu Line).  Please be aware, however, that some restrictions apply.  Please refer to the Japan Rail Pass official website: http://www.japanrailpass.net/

For further information for your comfortable and enjoyable staying in Yokohama and in Japan, please visit “Official Tokyo Travel Guide” Web site:

http://www.gotokyo.org/en/index.html

(English, Chinese and Korean etc. are available)