Currency:
The official currency of Japan is Japanese yen (JPY). Foreign cash is not accepted.
Credit cards:
International credit cards (VISA, Mastercard, American Express, JCB, etc.) are accepted in some locations (hotels, restaurants, convenience stores, mass retailers). However, it might be unacceptable at small enterprises, markets, transportation services, and other establishments.
Banks:
Bank tellers open Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
In most convenience stores, there are automated teller machines that accept international bank/credit cards and are available 24-7.
Time zone:
The Japan time zone is UTC/GMT +9.
Climate:
December is a little chilly in Kyoto. The lowest temperature in Kyoto in December is 3.2℃ (37.8℉) and the highest is 11.6℃ (52.9℉). The average temperature is 7℃ (44.6℉).
https://www.jnto.go.jp/weather/eng/area_detail.php?area_id=6110
Electricity:
The electrical voltage is 100 Volts and the frequency of electric current is 60 Hertz in Western Japan. The electrical plug is the "A-type" with two flat pins.
Insurance:
Participants will be responsible for any costs incurred at medical facilities, hospitals or pharmacies. Due to the high cost of medical care provided by commercial clinics in Japan, participants are highly recommended to purchase adequate travel/health insurance in advance of travel.
Driving license:
Only International Driving Permits (IDPs) issued by a signatory to the 1949 Geneva Convention in conformity with the Convention’s provisions are recognized as valid for driving in Japan. For details, please see the following website:
https://www.keishicho.metro.tokyo.jp/multilingual/english/traffic_safety/drivers_licenses/index.html
Official language:
The official language is Japanese.
Wi-Fi access:
Free Wi-Fi access is available on the conference venue and in most accommodations. Moreover, free service “Kyoto Wi-Fi” is also available in many public areas and stores.
https://kyoto.travel/en/traveller_kit/tools_wifi
Mobile apps for Kyoto:
https://kyoto-city.avex.jp/
Useful information on Kyoto:
Please refer to the following official travel guide for transportation from the airport, taxis, foreign friendly taxis, tax-free system in Japan, etc.
https://kyoto.travel/en/usefulinfo
Emergency contacts:
Emergency call to police
110
Fire, ambulance, emergency rescue
119