JAPAN

Canadians traveling on regular passports do not require a visa to enter Japan. (Traveler is advised to contact the embassy to check visa requirements.)

Varies from tropical in south to cool temperate in north. October and April are the best times to visit when temperatures are mild. May through July are the rainiest months, and June through August are hot and humid. Be sure to take a sweater regardless of where or when you are traveling.

In Japan, lightweight cottons and linens are required throughout summer in most areas. Light- to mediumweights during spring and autumn; medium- to heavyweights for winter months, according to region. Much warmer clothes will be needed in the mountains all year round. There is much less rainfall than in Western Europe.

Japanese Yen (JPY; symbol ¥)

Japanese is the official language. Some English is spoken in Tokyo and other large cities in Japan.

UTC/GMT +9 hours

Tap water is safe to drink anywhere in Japan. Mineral water including major imported brands can be easily obtained from super markets, convenience stores and other similar places.

The voltage used throughout Japan is uniformly 100 volts, A.C. There are two kinds of frequencies in use; 50 Hertz in eastern Japan and 60 Hertz in western Japan (including Nagoya, Kyoto and Osaka).

Public washrooms with both Japanese and Western style toilets are also common.

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Visiting Temples & Shrines- When entering temple buildings, you may be required to take off your shoes. Leave your shoes on the shelves at the entrance or take them with you in plastic bags provided at some temples.