General information


Information on the Web

Symposium Official Website: <http://www.gak.co.jp/interlec21
>
General Tourist Information: http:/www.xxxxxxxx
General Information on Shonan Village Center: <
http://www.shonan-village.co.jp/english/>
General Information on Kamakura: <http://www.city.kamakura.kanagawa.jp/english/index.htm>
General Information on Hakone: <http://www.kankou.hakone.kanagawa.jp/index_e.html>

Passports and Visas
Participants requiring a visa are asked to apply themselves to a Japanese consular office
or diplomatic mission in their country as early as possible. Participants are advised to contact
their local travel agents for details.

Climate and Clothing
During May, it will be relatively warm (temperature will be between 18 and 25℃) around the
meeting place. Although the meeting is scheduled shortly before the rainy season, it is
possible that we may have some occasional rain. Since Hakone area is relatively high
(about 700 m above sea level), it can be cooler in the evening.

Currency
Only Japanese Yen (\) can be used throughout Japan. Foreign currency or traveler's check
can be changed into Japanese Yen at airports, major banks and hotels (One US dollar = 110
yen, and one Euro = 130 yen as of October, 2003).
US dollar and Euros can be changed into Japanese Yen at Shonan Village Center.

Credit Cards
Credit cards are widely accepted. Commonly recognized cards include Visa, MasterCard,
American Express, and Diners Club.

Tipping
There is no custom of tipping anywhere in Japan, even in hotels, restaurants and taxis.
Exceptionally, in some luxury hotels and restaurants, a service charge is added to the bill.

Electrical Appliances
The voltage in Japan is 100 - 110 volts for electrical appliances. The frequency is 50Hz in
eastern parts of Japan including Shonan Village and Hakone. In western parts of Japan
including Kyoto and Osaka, the frequency is 60Hz. Electrical sockets usually accept only
two-pronged (vertical) plugs.

Insurance
You are recommended to take out adequate medical, travel and personal insurance prior to
the start of travel.