The stage for your event, Kyoto, proudly reigned as capital of Japan for
1200 years. This history and heritage lives on in the 1.5 million population
modern city: Seventeen UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Sites are situated
in a cityscape dominated by 2000 temples and shrines. The city offers you
endless opportunities to gain meaningful hands-on experience of rich Kyoto
culture through Tea Ceremony, sake brewing, kimono wearing, swordsmanship,
and more. Japan is renowned for its safety and the compactness of Kyoto
makes for wonderful strolling during free time.
CLIMATE AND CLOTHING
The weather during the Congress period, August-September, is generally
hot with an average daytime high of 33°C. The temperature in evening
is more than 25℃. All of the city's major hotels are fully air conditioned.
SHOPPING
A variety of shopping opportunities can be found in Kyoto. Traditional
arts and crafts, such as Kiyomizu pottery and Yuzen-dyed fabrics, can be
purchased in many of downtown Kyoto's numerous shops. First-rate department
stores are located throughout the city and offer many opportunities for
browsing and the purchase of items unique to Japan and the Kyoto area.
A 5% sales tax will be included to almost all consumer purchases made in
Japan.
TIPPING
Tipping is not customary in Japan. Instead, a 10 to 15% service charge
is added to the bill at hotels and some restaurants.
CURRENCY EXCHANGE
It is recommended that participants purchase Japanese yen traveler's checks
prior to leaving your own countries. Exchange of major currencies is available
at most banks, airports and large hotels. Please be reminded, the Secretariat
will accept Japanese yen, in cash, only.
MEDICAL CARE
In the event of an emergency, dial 110 for the police and 119 for the fire department or an ambulance. These calls are free of charge in most of phone booths and stands.
ELECTRICITY
Although 100 volt is the standard power supply throughout Japan, regional
differences exist in cycles (in Kyoto it is 60Hz). Most hotels have 110
volt and 220 volt outlets and converters are usually available on request.
