LOCAL CULTURE
LOCAL WEATHER
We have the four seasons very marked. Spring(March-April) and Autumn(Sep-Oct) are the best time of the year to be here.The rayny season will be in June, with the summer time.
POINTING
Avoid pointing at people with your finger as it may cause offence.
Consumption TAX
5% consumption tax is required for purchasing foods/products and receiving service in Japan.
THE ELDERLY
Elderly people are revered in Japanese society. Be sure to show them respect.
DID YOU KNOW ?
Local summer festival
The Bon festival is performed in each year in August. It is a traditional, 500-year-old dance. Everyone from children to elders wears kimonos and anyone can participate.
New Year's visit to a shrine
Japanese people go to shrine on January 1st to pray for peace in the new year. Anyone can come and pray.
Sumo wrestling
Sumo wrestling is Japan's national sport. It is therefore a sport tied up with honour, ceremony and tradition, and should be experienced.
Zen meditation
Go to a temple to meditate and reflect on life and the world.
WHAT TO PACK
Domestic travel
If you don't speak Japanese, you should ask for help with domestic travel from the concierge desk as the language barrier may prove problematic.
Exchange
There are not many places where you can exchange money so it is advisable to get some Japanese yen in the airport.
Japanese people
Japanese people in general are courteous and reserved and therefore may appear shy to Westerners.
Language
Most Japanese people does not speak English. You should bring a Japanese phrasebook with you.