Logistics Information
Climate and weather
During November and December, Kobe can expect temperatures to range from 39° to53° F (4° to 12° C) and typically sees about 4 days of rainfall.
Electricity
The voltage in Japan is 100 Volt, which is different from North America (120V), CentralEurope (230V) and most other regions of the world. Japanese electrical plugs and outlets
resemble North American ones. Plugs come in various versions, but most commonly
they are non-polarized and ungrounded with two pins. Grounded pins come either withthree pins or with two pins and a ground wire.
VaccinationThere are some recommended vaccinations for travelers to Japan. You may find it
helpful to check the CDC's and WHO's to find out whether you are sufficiently covered.
NB: Please also verify if you need vaccination after visiting Japan to re-enter yourcountry of departure or to enter any further destination different from Japan.
Phone calls and connectivity
We suggest purchasing an eSIM card before entering Japan, that’s the easiest way to
be immediately connected to the internet and able to make phone calls directly afterlanding. On the internet you will find many offers for eSIM cards, you may find it
helpful to check this website for advice.
https://tokyocheapo.com/business/internet/esim-japan-travel/Country code Japan: +81
Example: to call from abroad to Himeji dial +81 (Japan) .... (individual number)
Emergency numbers
Fire, Ambulance or Emergency Rescue: 119 Police: 110
Accommodation
Please refer to the following site. We recommend staying near Sannomiya Station.
Official travel Guide to KOBE
JAPANiCAN.com

Currency
The official currency in Japan is the Japanese Yen (JPY). 100 JPY is equivalent to 0.63 USD(as of July 2024).
Where to exchange money
The most convenient way to exchange your money may be to contact your home bankinstitute to see if they have branches in Japan or affiliations with Japanese banks. If you
need to exchange your money upon your arrival in Japan, there are many options to doso, some are more convenient than others.
At the airport: probably not the most competitive exchange rates, but for sure theeasiest access right after arrival.
Currency Exchange Bureaus in tourist areas: look out for "Money Exchange" or"Foreign Currency Exchange", they provide very quick service.
ATM machines: For direct access to Yen, international ATMs at convenient stores suchas 7-Eleven stores and Japan Post Bank are quite handy. Keep in mind transaction feesand withdrawal limits.
Please double-check with your bank that your PIN is compatible with Japanese ATMs.
Post Bank and convenience stores accept credit and debit cards issued outside of Japan,including Visa, Plus, Mastercard, Maestro, Cirrus, Union Pay and American Express.
Credit and debit cards
Credit and debit cards are accepted in the main cities and big shops and hotels; however,some small restaurants and shops or places with entrance fees (like Shinto shrines,Buddhist temples or castles) may not accept credit or debit cards. It is always a goodidea to bring some cash.
Important: Please check with your credit card issuer that your card is enabled for use inJapan (setting your card for general international transactions may not be sufficient).
Tipping
Tipping culture is nonexistent in Japan and the attempt to tip will highly likely to beturned down and cause great confusion. Do not tip, just nicely thank you for the service
you received.
VISA
Information will be posted around August.