Japan, important visitor information

Time
Local time is GMT +9.

Currency
The Japanese Yen (¥), equal to 100 sen. Major hotels and stores accept major credit cards, but it is prudent to bring cash. Travellers checks have the best exchange rate, especially those in US dollars; they can be converted at banks, post offices and currency exchange bureaus. International ATMS can be used at post offices, airports and large stores.

Climate
Japan has four seasons. Summers are very hot, particular in the southern part of the country. Heavy rains during May, June and July (a

The weather throughout the four main islands that make up Japan is generally temperate, with four distinct seasons. The weather can get very hot during the summer months, particularly in the South. May, June and July are the wettest months, with June to September considered as typhoon season. The winter weather varies according to area: the far north can get unbearably cold, while the south is a perfect mix of cool air and sunny skies.

Visa Info
Japan requires all tourists to present a passport, proof of sufficient funds, and onward or return ticket and the required documents for their next stop.

Americans, UK nationals, Canadians, Australians, and New Zealanders do not need a visa for a stay less than 90 days. Japan also recognises the Australian blue-covered emergency passport issued after December 2003. However, passport and visa requirements may change, so check the Japanese embassy or consulate.

Language
Japanese. Very few locals can speak or understand English well, so tourists should bring a phrasebook to get around.

Health
Japan requires no vaccinations, and aside from an Avian flu outbreak in June 2005 (tourists should avoid live animal markets) there are no known health risks. The medical facilities are excellent but expensive, so bring medical insurance. Japan is also very strict about bringing in both prescribed and over-the-counter medications, so contact the Japanese embassy in your country for the list of restrictions.

Safety
Japan has a low crime rate. However, avoid scheduling trips during typhoon season (June to September). Earthquakes are also a continuous threat. While infrastructure has been designed to withstand most minor shocks, tremors hitting 6.0-7.0 on the Richter scale have damaged certain areas like Fukuoka City and Genkaijima Island, making them difficult to access.

Customs
Most Japanese are formal and reserved, and loud or rowdy behavior is often interpreted as rude. Greet locals with a bow with hands clasped, and remove shoes when entering a home or restaurant. When distributing business cards, hold the edges with both hands, and bow as you give it.