Essential info for Japan

Time: Local time is GMT +9.
 

Electricity: Japan has an electrical current is 100 volts, 60Hz in the west (Osaka, Kyoto, Nagoya, Hiroshima); 100 volts, 50Hz in eastern Japan (Tokyo, Sapporo, Yokohoma). Flat two- and three-pin plugs are used.
 

Language: The official language is Japanese. Despite the fact that most Japanese learnt English at school, few can speak it well or understand what is said to them.
 

Safety Information: Japan is possibly the safest expat destination on earth. Common crime and property theft is rare. Expats should be cautious of typhoons between June and October and look out for storm warnings in the coastal region. Japan is a major earthquake zone and tremors and minor earthquakes are common.
 

Local Customs: Expats should expect the Japanese to be formal and reserved. Polite behavior is highly valued. Their system of etiquette is complex and difficult to understand or master. There is a strict code of conduct relating to most situations, although expats are not expected to comply, treated instead like an idiot relative from upcountry. It is key to avoid causing 'loss of face' by losing one’s temper, or insulting or criticising anyone in front of others. Greeting with a bow is normal; the lower the bow, the greater the deference. It is not expected to tip or bargain in Japan, but expect a service charge of 10 to 15% to be added to hotel and restaurant bills.
 

Business: Business in Japan can be tricky for expats as the highly formal and ritualistic business culture makes greetings and general conduct difficult. A third party introduction and translator is very useful. Exchange business often, and use both hands, employing a bow at the moment of handing over. Have cards printed with both English and Japanese, and naturally the Japanese side should be presented facing the recipient. It is important to be on time and to dress smartly and formally. Gift giving is important – provide one at the second meeting. Business hours are usually from 9am to 5pm on weekdays; some businesses are open on Saturdays from 9am to 12pm.
 

Communications: The international access code for Japan is +81. The outgoing code depends on what network is used to dial out on (e.g. 001 for KDD) followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0011 for the United States). City/area codes are in use, e.g. (0)3 for Tokyo and (0)82 for Hiroshima. Local calls can be made from any public phone, but only some allow international calls. Telephone cards are sold at kiosks and from vending machines. The local mobile phone operators use technology that is not always compatible with international networks. Internet cafes are widely available. Prices and connection speeds are some of the best on the planet.
 

 Useful Contacts: Tourist Information Centre, Tokyo: +81 (0)3 3201 3331 or www.jnto.go.jp

Emergencies: 110 (Police); 119 (Ambulance).