XXIII International Symposium on Paediatric Surgical Research, Tokyo, Japan. 12-14 September 2010 at Tokyo Garden Palace.

GENERAL INFORMATION

We hope the information provided below will be of help to you during ISPSR and during your stay in Tokyo.

Language

The official language of the 23rd ISPSR is English. All abstracts and presentations will be in English.

Its easier than ever for English speakers to navigate their way around Tokyo without speaking any Japanese. Signs at subway and train stations include the station names in romaji (Romanized characters). It can be helpful to know some tips for ordering in restaurants, shopping in stores, and asking for directions.

Climate in September

Temperatures in Tokyo for September ranges from 20C/68F - 23.8C/75F, with an average of 23.3C/74F. Summers are usually hot and humid with a temperature range of about 20-30 C, though it can sometimes climb into the high thirties.

Visa and Passport Requirements

A valid passport, which will remain valid during the period of stay, is required to enter Japan. In addition, some foreign nationals are required to obtain a visa. Nationals of countries that have “Reciprocal Visa Exemption Arrangements” with Japan are eligible to enter Japan without a visa unless the purpose of the visit is to reside in Japan, to obtain employment or to otherwise engage in remunerative activities. Nationals of countries that do not have “Reciprocal Visa Exemption Arrangements” with Japan must obtain a visa. For more information please visit the website of the Japan National Tourism Organization by clicking here, and/or contact the Japanese Consulate or diplomatic mission in your country.

Expenses

Costs in Tokyo are comparable to most other large cities. Travelers should budget a similar amount of money for their stay in Tokyo as they would for any other great city in Europe or North America.

Banks, Credit Cards and ATMs

Cash payment is the norm. Although credit cards are more and more widely accepted, they are far less widespread than in most other developed countries. Most Japanese ATMs do not accept foreign cards, but post office, 7-11 and Citibank ones do and usually have English menus as well. The crime rate is very low, so dont be afraid of carrying around amounts of cash as the Japanese do.

Banks are open from Monday to Friday, 9:00-15:00 (closed on Saturdays, Sundays and national holidays).

International credit cards such as American Express, VISA, Diners Club and MasterCard are widely accepted at hotels, department stores, shops, and restaurants. Foreign credit and cash cards can be used at Post Office and Seven Bank ATMs throughout Japan. Post offices which provide this service display stickers indicating which cards are accepted. Cards from the Cirrus, PLUS, Maestro and Visa Electron networks can be used. Accepted credit cards include VISA, MasterCard, American Express and Diners Club.
Withdrawal of Japanese Yen from Seven Bank ATMs is also available for international cash cards and credit cards. Seven Bank ATMs are placed at 7-Eleven convenience stores throughout Japan and the service is available 24 hours a day in English, Korean, Chinese and Portuguese. Cash cards from the PLUS and Cirrus networks can be used. Accepted credit cards are VISA, MasterCard, American Express, JCB and China Union Pay.

Currency and Money Exchange

The unit of Japanese currency is yen. You can buy yen at foreign exchange banks and other authorized money exchangers. At the international airports, currency exchange counters are usually open during normal office hours. The exchange rate fluctuates daily depending on the money market.

Drinking Water

Tap water is safe to drink anywhere in Japan. Mineral water, including major imported brands, can be easily obtained from supermarkets, convenience stores and vending machines.

Health Care

Medical systems and facilities in Japan are well-established, so you can expect to receive a high standard of medical treatment if you have a problem with your health during your stay.

Time Zone

All of Japan is in the same time zone, 9 hours ahead of G.M.T. Daylight Saving Time isnt used in Japan.

Tax

Japan charges a 5% consumption tax. Major department stores and electronics shops often offer their products duty-free to overseas travelers if they show their passports.

Tipping

Hotels and some restaurants include a service charge in their bills. It is not expected to tip for service in Japan.

Electricity

Voltage: 100V AC
Current: 50Hz (Tokyo and eastern Japan) or 60Hz (Kyoto, Osaka, and western Japan)
Sockets: Flat two-pin sockets