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Travel information and tips on Japan including passport information, accommodations, transportation to and in Japan, attractions and things to see and do, restaurant suggestions, tours, and much more.
General Information
About Japan
Contact the
Japan National
Tourist Organization at 212-757-5640 for travel and tourism and
destination information on Japan.
Passports and Visas
Currency Information and Money
Matters
Electricity
Language
Travel Insurance
Travel Warning
The following information was taken from the CIA World Fact Book.
In 1603, a Tokugawa shogunate (military dictatorship) ushered in a long period
of isolation from foreign influence in order to secure its power. For more than
two centuries this policy enabled Japan to enjoy stability and a flowering of
its indigenous culture. Following the Treaty of Kanagawa with the US in 1854,
Japan opened its ports and began to intensively modernize and industrialize.
During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Japan became a regional power
that was able to defeat the forces of both China and Russia. It occupied Korea,
Formosa (Taiwan), and southern Sakhalin Island. In 1931-32 Japan occupied
Manchuria, and in 1937 it launched a full-scale invasion of China. Japan
attacked US forces in 1941 - triggering America's entry into World War II - and
soon occupied much of East and Southeast Asia. After its defeat in World War II,
Japan recovered to become an economic power and a staunch ally of the US. While
the emperor retains his throne as a symbol of national unity, elected
politicians - with heavy input from bureaucrats and business executives - wield
actual decision making power. The economy experienced a major slowdown starting
in the 1990s following three decades of unprecedented growth, but Japan still
remains a major economic power, both in Asia and globally.
Government-industry cooperation, a strong work ethic, mastery of high technology, and a comparatively small defense allocation (1% of GDP) helped Japan advance with extraordinary rapidity to the rank of second most technologically powerful economy in the world after the US and the third-largest economy in the world after the US and China, measured on a purchasing power parity (PPP) basis. One notable characteristic of the economy has been how manufacturers, suppliers, and distributors have worked together in closely-knit groups called keiretsu. A second basic feature has been the guarantee of lifetime employment for a substantial portion of the urban labor force. Both features have now eroded. Japan's industrial sector is heavily dependent on imported raw materials and fuels. The tiny agricultural sector is highly subsidized and protected, with crop yields among the highest in the world. Usually self sufficient in rice, Japan must import about 55% of its food on a caloric basis. Japan maintains one of the world's largest fishing fleets and accounts for nearly 15% of the global catch. For three decades, overall real economic growth had been spectacular - a 10% average in the 1960s, a 5% average in the 1970s, and a 4% average in the 1980s. Growth slowed markedly in the 1990s, averaging just 1.7%, largely because of the after effects of overinvestment and an asset price bubble during the late 1980s that required a protracted period of time for firms to reduce excess debt, capital, and labor. From 2000 to 2001, government efforts to revive economic growth proved short lived and were hampered by the slowing of the US, European, and Asian economies. In 2002-07, growth improved and the lingering fears of deflation in prices and economic activity lessened, leading the central bank to raise interest rates to 0.25% in July 2006, up from the near 0% rate of the six years prior, and to 0.50% in February 2007. In addition, the ten-year privatization of Japan Post, which has functioned not only as the national postal delivery system but also, through its banking and insurance facilities as Japan's largest financial institution, was completed in October 2007, marking a major milestone in the process of structural reform. Nevertheless, Japan's huge government debt, which totals 182% of GDP, and the aging of the population are two major long-run problems. Some fear that a rise in taxes could endanger the current economic recovery. Debate also continues on the role of and effects of reform in restructuring the economy, particularly with respect to increasing income disparities.
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Passport Visa Express specializes in obtaining Passports for United States Citizens who wish to travel internationally within the next 30 days. We work directly with the U.S. Passport Agency assisting you in expediting your passport application in as fast as the same day! Our passport consultants have many years of direct experience working with the Passport Agency. |
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Currency Information and Money Matters
The currency in Japan is the yen (JPY). Yen per US
dollar - 117.99 (2007), 116.18 (2006), 110.22 (2005), 108.19 (2004), 115.93
(2003)
Currency Exchange - Get your currency needs managed in advance! Many airports, railroad stations, bus depots, and other points of entry have no currency exchange. When currency exchange is available in airports, lines can be long and rates can be "sky high". These long waits and usurious fees can be a nightmare. Order in advance from All Foreign Currency right online. It's fast, easy, and you save time and money! The can also provide you with Travelers' checks, bank drafts, and transfers. U.S. dollars are not accepted everywhere and rates can be atrocious! Current Exchange Rate: Check Today's Exchange Rate
The official language is Japanese. I have found that it helps to know at least a little bit of the language as I travel in other countries. You do not have to be able to be a fluent speaker, but knowing a few key words and phrases will really help. I have found that, although almost everywhere I go I can find someone who speaks English, knowing just a few words of the local language can really be a help. And, it lets others know I am at least interested in their language.
Visit the Getting Away Language Learning Center where you can find out how to learn another language, or where to purchase books, dictionaries, electronic translators, software and more. Click here for language helps, dictionaries, electronic translators, language software and other helps for learning a foreign language. Being able to speak at least some of the language in the country you are visiting will help you have a better time and enjoy your trip more. Jim.
Travel
Etiquette
Behavior and customs vary greatly from country to country. We
discuss the correct travel etiquette so that you won't be caught out.
TravelEtiquette was formed to offer a unique reference
point on essential etiquette advice and information for worldwide
travel. Our features and articles are written by professional
journalists and experts - who have a particular interest, or a
background in this area. So – know before you go. Visit
TravelEtiquette so you will know how to, as the old adage states, “When in Rome,
do as the Romans do.”
Electricity
Be sure to take your adaptor and converter kit. Find the converter you will need in the
Getting Away
Travel Store. Additionally, you will find just about anything and
everything you will need when you travel. Across the state, country, or
to a destination on the other side of the world, you'll find what you
need in the Getting
Away Travel Store!
Travel
Insurance
If you need medical
care while you are away, it is best to be aware that medical providers may not
accept payment through your insurance company and that you will therefore to pay
in full for your treatment and file a claim with your insurance company for
reimbursement. Therefore you should have access to cash, either from a credit
card or by wire transfer. If you need assistance contact the country's local
embassy or representative. For compensation, you must be treated by licensed
medical personnel and provide your insurance company with proper documentation
and receipts. It is advisable to always ensure you have a comprehensive travel
insurance policy which covers you for repatriation to your home country. Visit
the Getting Away
Health
and Safety Tips for Travelers
page for additional information about insurance.
Travel Warning
Travel Warnings are issued to
describe long-term, protracted conditions that make a country dangerous or
unstable. A Travel Warning is also issued when the U.S. Government's ability to
assist American citizens is constrained due to the closure of an embassy or
consulate or because of a drawdown of its staff. The countries listed below
meet those criteria. Additionally, the State Department issues Country Specific Information for every
country of the world with information on such matters as the health conditions,
crime, unusual currency or entry requirements, any areas of instability, and the
location of the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate in the subject country. Check with the U.S. State Department for
Travel Warnings, Consular Information Sheets & Public
Announcements.
Books, Maps and Other Resources
My favorite guidebooks when I am
traveling is Fodor's. I find them to be quite complete, easy to use, and almost
always on the money with helps and tips for traveling in the country I am
visiting.
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I always research the destinations to which I intend to travel with books and maps. I normally use Fodor's as I find their guidebooks very informative and easy to read and understand. Click on the Amazon logo to search for travel books and maps. If you don't find what you are looking for, click on the Getting Away Travel Bookshelf to find some of my favorites! Still can't find what you need? Contact me. mailto:jimbruner@gettingaway.com |
Getting To Japan
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At Travelocity, not only can you find the lowest fare or best schedule on over 400 airlines, but Travelocity can often save you up to 20% or More on Airfares. You can also find the Best Car Rental Rates in Top Destinations. You can also find Great Hotel Rates At Top Destinations! And, to save even more, Book Air + Hotel Together and SAVE with Travelocity! You can also find Incredible Deals on the Best Cruises! Remember - Travelocity Always Saves You on Flights, Hotels, Car Rentals, Cruises and More. |
For Flights, Hotels, Cars, Cruises, Vacations, Tours and Travel Deals, Click on Global Travel International. If the link does not work properly, type www.gettingaway.globaltravel.com in the address line of your browser.
Informieren Sie sich hier über den Airbus A380& buchen Sie ab sofort Ihre besondere Reise nach
New York, Johannesburg, Tokio, Montreal.
(These links are for our German customers.)
If you have information you
believe I should add to this section of Getting Away, please contact me.
mailto:jimbruner@gettingaway.com
Getting
Around In Japan
Coming Soon. In the mean time, if you have information you
believe I should add to this section of Getting Away, please contact me.
mailto:jimbruner@gettingaway.com
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There are Marriott properties in the following cities of Japan: Chiba, Fukuoka, Gifu, Nagoya, Naruto, Okinawa, Sapporo and Tokyo Tokyo Hotels - Make your reservations in a great hotel in Tokyo today and, even better, get great discounts by reserving through Getting Away! Click here for hotels in selected other worldwide locations.
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| My preferred hotel chain is
Marriott |
Kyoto
Sapporo
Tokyo
Some
Things To See And Do In Japan
| At InfoHub, we believe vacation travel should be much more than just flying you to a tropical beach. Since 1996, we at InfoHub have worked hard to bring you the largest specialty travel portal on the Internet. Today, you can find over 20,000 specialty trips at InfoHub, covering activities from Artist Workshops to Yoga Retreats. Whatever your special interest is, you will find it right here! Plus trips you never even knew existed! We continue to expand the exciting array of travel options available by adding hundreds of out-of-the-ordinary trips every week! Our goal is to make InfoHub "The Ultimate Source of Inspiring Travel Ideas" for your next dream trip. | |
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►Over 5000 partners in 120 countries
►Over 700 retail travel agencies partners ►Over 300 publisher affiliates ►Clients from Americas, Europe, Asia, Australia, Africa, and Middle East ►Largest special interest travel website on the internet ►Over 20000 truly unique vacations in 150 destinations around the world ►Over 100 special interest activities ►Vacations include adventure, outdoor, sport, culture, learning, wildlife & ecotourism, spiritual, hobby, affinity, etc. |
Tours to and in
Japan
For accommodations in Japan, click on
Search by city for hotels and other accommodations in
Japan
For great deals on Best Western hotels throughout Japan, click on
Best Western Japan Japan's most popular hotel booking site
Coming Soon. In the mean time, if you have information you
believe I should add to this section of Getting Away, please contact me.
mailto:jimbruner@gettingaway.com
Some
Suggestions For Accommodations In Japan
.
For information on Best Western hotels in Japanese, click on
Best Western Japanese Language Website.
Kyoto
Sapporo
Shintoku
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Hokkaido, Japan's most northerly island, has been
known as Japan's mecca of winter sports, since it hosted the Sapporo
Olympic Games in 1972. Its climate guarantees plentiful snow and great
powder on the pistes situated between 3280 and 1380 feet. This small
family Resort in an enchanting location at the foot of the slopes,
surrounded by forest, opened in 1987. After skiing, relax in the
swimming pool, Jacuzzi or Canadian bath. The whole family can take a
walk up to the frozen lake and admire the view. Club Med Sapporo is located in a very woody region, at the foot of the slopes and features 177 rooms and suites in two adjoining buildings. Our international cuisine buffets, with a special mention for traditional Asian cuisine, take pride of place on this restaurant's menu. Your meals will awaken your five senses. There is a baby corner where parents can prepare meals for their little ones. A creative and tasty cuisine, associated to perfect service. Our executive chefs rivalize to reinvent themselves and constantly surprise you not only with their food but also with their show. For additional information, or to make a reservation, click on Club Med Information and Reservations |
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Tokyo
| Welcome
to the Conrad Tokyo Hotel, where legendary Conrad excellence meets the
calming and inspiring design of modern day Japan. Located over 37 floors
and overlooking the Tokyo Shiodome area, marvel at panoramic views of
picturesque Hamarikyu Gardens, a former feudal lord's residence, and
take in the impressive Tokyo Bay skyline. The Conrad Tokyo hotel is also
conveniently located just 5 minutes from the famous Ginza Shopping
Street. The 290 guestrooms and suites of this luxury Tokyo hotel combine contemporary luxury and technology with an atmosphere rich in the soothing and distinctive traditions of Japan. Conrad Tokyo's design draws its inspiration from two key Japanese concepts: Sumie, the traditional black and white Japanese painting, and mon (gate). Japan's vibrancy, drama and theatrical dining are all embodied in the Conrad Tokyo hotel's 3 signature restaurants where you can indulge in a selection of the finest Japanese, Chinese and Continental fare. Sample tantalizing Chinese cuisine with an innovative twist at the Michelin-starred China Blue restaurant or enjoy a meal at the Michelin-starred 'Gordon Ramsay at Conrad Tokyo' restaurant, popular with guests and locals alike. This luxury Tokyo hotel also connects conveniently to Tokyo's major airports and lies within walking distance of the Ginza District, famed for its up market department stores, boutiques and restaurants. Enjoy easy access to many of Tokyo's major business areas including the financial district or visit the many nearby Tokyo tourist attractions such as Tsukiji Fish Market. With Exhilarating panoramic views, exclusively created scented amenities, and one of Tokyo's most spacious guestrooms, enjoy a truly luxurious experience when you choose the Conrad Tokyo hotel, Japan. The Conrad Tokyo luxury hotel. Legendary excellence. Calming inspirations. For additional information, or to make reservations at a Conrad Hilton Hotel or Resort, click on Hilton Hotels and Get Our Best Rates. Guaranteed. |
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| My preferred hotel chain is
Marriott |
| Click on The Hilton Family of Hotels to search for Hilton Hotels along with Conrad Hotels, Doubletree Hotels, Embassy Suites Hotels, Hampton Hotels, Hilton Garden Inn and Homewood Suites by Hilton. Looking for a better hotel rate? They're at Hilton.com |
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Tokyo Hotels - Make your reservations in a great hotel in Tokyo today and, even better, get great discounts by reserving through Getting Away! Click here for hotels in selected other worldwide locations.
| Click on Japan for suggestions for accommodations in Japan prepared for Getting Away by the Hotel Club Hotel Club Discount Hotel Reservation System. |
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Tokyo
| Hotel
Seiyo Ginza is located in the exciting Ginza District of Tokyo, one
block from the financial and fashion crossroads of the Orient. The 77
elegant rooms and suites have been designed to reflect the comforts and
convenience of a private residence. Each room has its own unique design,
color scheme and layout to match the discerning needs of each guest. Hotel
Seiyo Ginza prides itself in having the most spacious baths available in
Japan, featuring separate showers, vanity areas and walk-in closets. In addition to standard services such as 24-hour room service and twice-daily maid service, a personal concierge and butler services are provided from check-in to checkout. Guests are also treated to four restaurants, two lounges, a complete fitness room, meeting facilities and a theatre. For additional information about this hotel, or to make a reservation, click on Getting Away Accommodations Information and Reservations. |
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Book Hostels
in Japan Online You can also find a hostel almost anywhere in
the world through Experience Paradise, a partner of Getting Away. |
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Some
Suggestions For Dining In Japan
Coming Soon. In the mean time, if you have information you
believe I should add to this section of Getting Away, please contact me.
mailto:jimbruner@gettingaway.com
Some Favorites
In Japan
Coming Soon. In the mean time, if you have information you
believe I should add to this section of Getting Away, please contact me.
mailto:jimbruner@gettingaway.com
Some
Interesting Links For Japan
| At InfoHub, we believe vacation travel should be much more than just flying you to a tropical beach. Since 1996, we at InfoHub have worked hard to bring you the largest specialty travel portal on the Internet. Today, you can find over 20,000 specialty trips on InfoHub.com, covering activities from Artist Workshops to Yoga Retreats. Whatever your special interest is, you will find it right here! Plus trips you never even knew existed! We continue to expand the exciting array of travel options available by adding hundreds of out-of-the-ordinary trips every week! Our goal is to make Infohub.com "The Ultimate Source of Inspiring Travel Ideas" for your next dream trip. | ||
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Tokyo Hotels - Make your reservations in a great hotel in Tokyo today and, even better, get great discounts by reserving through Getting Away! Click here for hotels in selected other worldwide locations.
| Book Hostels in Japan Online You can also find a hostel almost anywhere in the world through Experience Paradise, a partner of Getting Away. |
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Our world is filled with many languages. You will enjoy your visit to any country if you know the language - or at least, some of the language. Visit the Getting Away Language Learning Center to find out how you can make your visit more meaningful! The languages we offer include English, Spanish, French, Italian, Latin, Portuguese, German, Danish, Dutch, Welch, Russian, Polish, Hindi, Arabic, Hebrew, Turkish, Swahili, Japanese, Chinese, Korean, Thai, Vietnamese, and Indonesian.
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