General Information

Banks

Banks are open from Monday to Friday, 9:00-15:00
(Closed on Saturdays, Sundays and national holidays).
Automatic teller machines (ATMs) are available for withdrawing
by credit card every day from 9:00 to 20:00 at major banks.

Climate and Clothing

Generally, the weather in November is pleasant and dry.
The average temperature in Yokohama during the conference period is likely to be 14°C (64F)(Low 10°C (50F)/ High17(63F)). From November onward, when the temperature starts falling in the morning and evening, a jacket would be advisable. However, a heavy coat will not be necessary and there are still quite a few days when shirtsleeves would be comfortable during the days.

Credit Cards

Diners Club, American Express, Visa and MasterCard are widely accepted at hotels, department stores, shops and restaurants.

Currency

Currency in Japan is the Yen (¥/JPY). Notes are available in denominations of 10,000, 5,000, 2,000 and 1,000 yen. Coins are minted in denominations of 500, 100, 50, 10, 5 and 1 yen. Exchange at the airport is recommended for your convenience. Most foreign currencies can be exchanged at banks and hotels where you stay. However, we highly recommend purchasing cash in Yen before leaving your home country. A passport may be required for currency exchange services.

Electricity

Voltage in Japan is 100V and the frequency is either 50Hz or 60Hz depending on the area (Tokyo is 50Hz). The socket is type A, which has two flat plug holes. If you plan to bring any electric appliances that are not convertible, transformers and/or plug adaptors are necessary.

Insurance

The Organizing Committee can accept no responsibility for accidents or damage to the private property of participants. Please make your own arrangements for health insurance and any other necessary insurance.

Mobile Telephones

Mobile telephone rental is recommended, as most foreign cellular phones are not compatible with Japan’s network. Mobile phone rental shops are conveniently located at Narita and other international airports. Please check with your mobile network provider prior to your departure.

Passport and Visa Requirements

A valid passport is required to enter Japan. In addition, some foreign nations require a visa. Please contact the Japanese Consulate or diplomatic mission in your country at least three months before your departure for Japan. For details, please check the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan (http://www.mofa.go.jp/j_info/visit/visa/index.html) or contact the Japanese Embassy in your country, as required steps to obtain visas vary from country to country. To request a set of documents to obtain visas to the Secretariat, prior registration to the Meeting is required.

Time

Japan Standard Time is nine hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time.

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