Visit Japan Web: All participants strongly recommended to complete immigration and customs procedures via Visit Japan Web system prior to arrival
Visas
Visa Requirements: Depend on nationality, residence status, and purpose of travel
Confirm Requirements: Participants responsible for confirming visa requirements
Step 1: Check if nationality is on visa-exempt countries list
Step 2: If not, find nationality and confirm applicable conditions (separate links for China, Russia, CIS countries/Ukraine/Georgia, all other nationalities)
General Info: Available from Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan
Egyptian Passport Holders: Required to obtain short-term business visa. Also applies to those receiving financial assistance from organizers
Cash is King: Many places still prefer cash. ATMs at 7-Eleven, FamilyMart work with international cards.
Credit Cards: Widely accepted in hotels, major stores. Visa/Mastercard most common.
Internet & WiFi
Pocket WiFi: Rent at airports (¥500-1,000/day)
SIM Cards: Available at airports and electronics stores
Free WiFi: Most convenience stores, stations, cafes. Look for "Japan Connected-free Wi-Fi" stickers
Electricity
Voltage: 100V
Frequency: 50Hz (East) / 60Hz (West)
Plugs: Type A (2 flat pins)
Most modern electronics work fine. Bring adapters for other plug types.
Language
English: Limited outside tourist areas
Translation Apps: Google Translate (download Japanese offline)
Useful Phrases:
"Sumimasen" (Excuse me)
"Arigatou" (Thank you)
"Eigo wakarimasu ka?" (Do you speak English?)
Safety
Very Safe City: Low crime rate
Emergency: 110 (Police), 119 (Fire/Ambulance)
Lost & Found: Excellent—items usually returned. Check station koban (police boxes)
Weather (July)
Temperature: 25-30°C (77-86°F)
Humidity: High (70-80%)
Rain: Possible—carry umbrella
Clothing: Light, breathable fabrics. Air conditioning indoors is strong!
Travel Advice from Ueno
From Haneda Airport
Take Tokyo Monorail to Hamamatsucho
Transfer to JR line
From Narita Airport
Keisei Skyliner directly to Keisei-Ueno Station
Welcome Suica Card
Type: Prepaid IC card for trains, buses, and many participating shops
Validity: 28 days including the date of purchase; generally non-refundable
Limit: One card per person
Where to Buy: Welcome Suica ticket vending machines at Narita Airport Terminal 1 Station, Narita Airport Terminal 2/3 Station, and Haneda Airport Terminal 3 (Tokyo Monorail) Station, as well as at selected JR EAST Travel Service Centers
Top Up: Up to 20,000 yen at ticket machines, fare adjustment machines, and Seven Bank ATMs
Cultural Etiquette
Remove shoes when entering homes, some restaurants, temples
Bow slightly when greeting or thanking someone
Speak quietly on trains and in public spaces
No eating while walking - Stand still or sit down
Tattoos may restrict entry to some onsen (hot springs)
Queue orderly - Japanese line culture is serious!
No littering - Carry trash with you (few public bins)
Business cards - Receive with both hands, read carefully
Emergency Contacts
Police: 110
Fire/Ambulance: 119
Japan Helpline: 050-3816-2787 (English support 24/7)
Useful Apps
Google Maps: Best for navigation, train routes, real-time updates
Japan Transit Planner: Detailed train schedules and route planning
Google Translate: Camera translation for menus and signs
