About Kyoto
Joint 10th Asia-Pacific Conference of ISTVS and 39th Annual Meeting of Japanese Society for Terramechanics
About Kyoto
Kyoto was the capital of Japan from 794 to 1868. In Japan, the capital implies traditionally the place where the Emperor lives. In Kyoto, we can see not only old shrines and temples but also modernized buildings such as JR Kyoto Station and Kyoto Tower. The population of Kyoto City is about 1.47 million in 2016.
July is unfortunately hot and humid, with highest temperature of 31 deg C (88 deg F) and lowest of 23 deg C (73 deg F) on average. But please do not worry about it. We are in the middle of a governmental campaign of smart business wear without jackets and ties during the conference period. Thus, we recommend you to attend our conference with casual wear.
The month of July is the period of Gion Festival, which originated as a prayer meeting at Yasaka Shrine for health in 860s. The highlight of this festival is the parade of Yama and Hoko on July 17 and on July 24. It is noted that the Yama and Hoko of Gion Festival is one of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Japan by UNESCO inscribed in 2016. During the conference period, we can see the construction of Yama and Hoko in traditional style without using nails, and they are displayed beside the streets during the conference period. So, stay longer in Kyoto, and experience the artistic atmosphere of decorated Yama and Hoko on July 17!
Gion Festival (in Japanese; photos can be enjoyed.)
Parade 2017 (YouTube)
Access to Kyoto
The nearest international airport to Kyoto is Kansai International Airport (KIX) that locates on an island about 100 km south west of Kyoto. Access to Kyoto from Kansai International Airport is as follows: about 75 minutes to Kyoto Station by JR Airport Limited Express Haruka which is available every 30 minutes; or about 85 minutes to JR Kyoto Station by Airport Limousine Bus which is basically available every 20 minutes.
Useful Information on transportation from KIX to Kyoto Station
If you plan to arrive in Japan at New Tokyo International Airport, or Narita Airport, (NRT), or at Tokyo International Airport, or Haneda Airport, (HND), domestic transfer flight to Osaka International Airport, or Itami Airport, (ITM) is recommended. Access from ITM to JR Kyoto Station is about 55 min by Airport Limousine Bus which is basically available every 20 minutes.
Useful Information on transportation from ITM to Kyoto Station
Travel Information
English information on sightseeing in Kyoto can be found here.
Official guide for traveling in Japan is here. Currently, the consumption tax of 8% will be added to the net price at most shops in Japan. For foreigners, there are some shops that carries “Tax-free” sign can process the authorized tax exemption program. Please check this information.
Hotel Information
Kyoto is very famous for sightseeing. Total number of domestic visitors to Kyoto is not so increased, but visitors from foreign countries are increasing these days. Thus, there might be a problem of availability of rooms in economical hotels. Please consult with a travel agent at your earliest convenience.
The conference office keeps limited number of twin rooms with discount rate during the conference period at the conference hotel.
Useful Information
Electricity in Japan is AC 100V, whose frequency is 60Hz in Kyoto. The plug is Type A, which is the same as that used in USA. In general, you may drink tap water in Japan.
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