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PROGRAM OF EVENTS<br />
SEPTEMBER 9–17, 20<strong>16</strong>
TABLE OF CONTENTS<br />
4 Travel Information<br />
8 Schedule Overview<br />
20 Hotel Information<br />
22 Destination Overview – Tokyo<br />
23 Destination Overview – Nagoya<br />
24 Destination Overview – Kyoto<br />
24 Destination Overview – Kanazawa / Wakura<br />
26 General Information<br />
34 What-to-Pack Check List<br />
KEY CONTACTS<br />
In addition to Guide & Staff a Program Manager from JTB<br />
(Makita’s Travel Agency) will be on-site with us throughout<br />
the trip. Please do not hesitate to contact him should you<br />
require assistance prior to departure or any time during<br />
the trip.<br />
Russell Kuwahara, Program Manager<br />
310-897-3189<br />
rkuwahara@jtbusa.com
TRAVEL INFORMATION<br />
Assistance at the Airport on Arrival Day and Group<br />
Departure Day<br />
Upon arrival, you will be met by JTB staff and escorted to chartered<br />
buses headed for the hotel. On departure day, you will be assigned<br />
to a bus according to your itinerary and will be advised when to<br />
gather for the chartered bus to the airport. Please make sure not to<br />
miss your departure shuttle.<br />
Departing from Your Hometown<br />
Domestic Flights: Please be sure to arrive at your departing airport<br />
early so as not to miss your flight. We recommend arriving at least 2<br />
hours prior to your departure time as a general rule.<br />
International Flights: If you are departing from one of the gateway<br />
airports, please be sure to arrive at least 3 hours prior to the<br />
scheduled departure time.<br />
Travel Documentation<br />
You will be contacted by JTB with your e-Tickets prior<br />
to departure.<br />
Upon check in, you will be required to present your current passport<br />
which will remain valid for the full period of stay (at least until<br />
September 17, 20<strong>16</strong>, plus any extended travel if applicable), and<br />
have space for immigration stamps remaining.<br />
Flight Time Changes, Cancellations or Missed Flights<br />
As airline schedule changes do sometimes occur, it is recommended<br />
that you check with your airline to determine if changes have<br />
occurred one day prior to your travel. You can check the flight status<br />
with the airline either on their website or by phone. If any issues<br />
arise with flight cancellations, extreme delays or missed flights<br />
and assistance is needed on the days of travel and outside regular<br />
business hours, please contact 206-696-4945.<br />
Important Safety & Security Information<br />
Liquids, gels, aerosols, creams and pastes must be 3.4 ounces<br />
(100ml) or less per container; must be in a 1 quart-sized, clear,<br />
plastic, zip-top bag; 1 bag per passenger placed in screening bin.<br />
The bag limits the total liquid volume each traveler can bring. For<br />
additional information, please visit the TSA website.<br />
Medication & Valuables<br />
Please carry all vital medication and important personal belongings<br />
such as cameras, jewelry, money and a personal ID on you or in a<br />
carry-on bag. It is recommended that you leave all valuable items<br />
such as expensive jewelry or large amounts of cash at home. If you<br />
must bring these items, use the safe provided in the hotel room.<br />
Airline Meal Service<br />
Premium Economy service on both Japan Airlines and All Nippon<br />
Airways includes 2 main meals (a lunch/dinner meal and a prearrival<br />
meal) as well as snacks/drinks offered to Premium Economy<br />
passengers as an added complimentary service.<br />
Baggage Allowances & Rules<br />
Remember that you will not have access to your checked baggage<br />
on board the flight, so carry your medication, travel documents, and<br />
valuables in your carry-on baggage into the aircraft cabin.<br />
Please ensure that your baggage is clearly identified by using the<br />
Makita Luggage tags provided in your mailing. This identification will<br />
assist in prompt delivery/transport throughout the trip.<br />
Checking Your Bags<br />
As your domestic and international tickets are separate, typically you<br />
will need to pick up your luggage upon arrival at your international<br />
connection gateway and bring with you to re-check for the<br />
international flight (JAL or ANA). This is recommended in any case<br />
to help ensure your luggage arrives with you in Japan with minimal<br />
chance of delay. Some airlines may check them through to Narita on<br />
their own discretion or upon request, however.<br />
4<br />
5
TRAVEL INFORMATION<br />
Checked Baggage Allowance<br />
For domestic baggage allowance, please refer to your individual<br />
bookings. Domestic baggage rules typically charge $25 for the first<br />
checked bag and $35 for the second bag, with overage charges if<br />
the weight or dimensions exceed what is allowed.<br />
For International Baggage Allowance, Please See Below.<br />
Japan Airlines – Up to 2 pieces. Up to 23kg (50 lbs), and less than<br />
203cm (80 inches) total linear dimensions (combined width, length,<br />
and height) as below, including wheels and handles.<br />
All Nippon Airways – Up to 2 pieces. Up to 23kg (50 lbs), and less<br />
than 158cm (62 inches) total linear dimensions (combined width,<br />
length, and height) as below, including wheels and handles.<br />
GROUP ARRIVAL IN TOKYO<br />
Saturday, September 10<br />
Upon arrival at Narita International Airport follow the signs to the<br />
Immigration Hall. Please have the following documents ready: your<br />
passport, your completed immigration and customs card which is<br />
distributed by your airline crew before landing, or else can be picked<br />
up in the Immigration Hall.<br />
A customs officer will review your travel documents and ask you<br />
questions, such as why you are visiting and how long you will stay.<br />
Once you have cleared immigration, please proceed to the baggage<br />
claim area and collect your bags.<br />
Should you find your baggage missing or damaged, please file a<br />
report with the airline immediately and contact JTB staff at the<br />
earliest opportunity.<br />
Once you have collected your luggage, please continue through<br />
customs before entering the Arrival Hall. As you enter the Arrival<br />
Hall, you will be met by staff from JTB. The JTB Staff will be holding<br />
Makita signage.<br />
DEPARTURE FROM TOKYO<br />
Cabin Baggage Allowance<br />
Japan Airlines and All Nippon Airways both allow 1 carry-on bag<br />
of no more than 10kg (22 lbs) of 115 cm (45 inches) total linear<br />
dimensions in addition to a personal item.<br />
Cabin baggage may be charged excess baggage it if has to be<br />
checked-in and the total weight of the check-in bags exceeds the<br />
passenger’s allowance. Hand-carry items that exceed the allowed<br />
limits will be collected and stored in the aircraft cargo compartment.<br />
Saturday, September 17<br />
A departure transfer from Grand Nikko Tokyo Daiba to Tokyo<br />
International Airport will only be provided to those guests returning<br />
to United States on the dedicated group flights, departing Saturday,<br />
September 17, 20<strong>16</strong>.<br />
A departure notice will be delivered to your room to guide you about<br />
your departure on the final night.<br />
6<br />
7
SCHEDULE OVERVIEW<br />
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 10<br />
NARITA / TOKYO<br />
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 11<br />
TOKYO / NAGOYA<br />
All guests will arrive into Tokyo on flights from United States.<br />
You will be provided with a group number 1, 2, 3 or 4 in your agenda.<br />
This number will represent the chartered bus numbers that you have<br />
been allocated for the transfer.<br />
Guests arrive at Grand Nikko Tokyo Daiba Hotel for group check in at<br />
the Makita Hospitality Desk.<br />
Name Badges<br />
Program name badges will be provided in your Welcome Packet.<br />
Please wear them to all group activities and events. They will help<br />
fellow guests, hotel staff and event staff easily identify you as a<br />
member of the group and better serve you throughout the program.<br />
On your name badge will be your group number for the events and<br />
charter buses. Also included in your badge holder will be an agenda<br />
card with snapshot of events.<br />
GROUP NUMBER<br />
You will be checking out and departing out of this hotel and staying<br />
at a new hotel, so please prepare your luggage for staff to pick up<br />
and follow JTB staff guidance given the prior night for where to<br />
leave them for collection. Your baggage will be directly transported<br />
to the hotel in Nagoya by chartered truck separately. Please keep<br />
your passport, wallet, and other valuables you wish to carry with you<br />
during the day’s activities.<br />
Dress Code: Casual<br />
Breakfast at the Hotel:<br />
You will be on your own for breakfast and will be provided a meal<br />
coupon voucher to eat at any of the following places:<br />
• Star Road (30F) (Western Buffet) 6:30 onwards<br />
• Oshima (3F) (Japanese) 7:00 onwards<br />
Check-Out of Hotel. Please ensure you have checked out and all<br />
in-room charges are settled prior to departure. Please meet in the<br />
hotel lobby 10 minutes prior to scheduled departure time.<br />
ALL GROUPS<br />
9:00 Leave hotel for full day of sightseeing of Tokyo<br />
by chartered bus.<br />
Dinner at the Hotel:<br />
You will be on your own for dinner and will be provided a meal<br />
coupon voucher to eat at any of the following places:<br />
• Star Road (Western) 5:30 – 9:00 last entry, closes 11:00<br />
• Le Bouquet (Variety Dinner Buffet) 5:30 – 9:00<br />
• Oshima (Japanese) 5:30 – 9:00<br />
• Kanroku (Sushi) 5:30 – 9:00<br />
• Ro-Lan (Cantonese) 5:30 – 9:00<br />
• Room Service is an option for late arrivals<br />
GROUPS 1 & 2 (times are approximate)<br />
9:45 – 11:00 Tokyo Skytree.<br />
11:30 – 1:00 Asakusa (Sensoji Temple & Nakamise<br />
Shopping Arcade).<br />
1:15 – 2:45 Lunch at local restaurant.<br />
3:00 Leave restaurant for Tokyo Station by<br />
chartered bus.<br />
8<br />
9
SCHEDULE OVERVIEW<br />
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 12<br />
NAGOYA / OKAZAKI / NAGOYA<br />
Dress Code: Business Casual<br />
Breakfast at the Hotel:<br />
• Montmarte (1F) (Buffet) 6:30 onwards, by meal coupon<br />
• Nadaman (2F) (Japanese) 7:00 onwards, by meal coupon<br />
Departure times for this day will depend on your Group Numbers.<br />
Please refer to your group/bus number and gather in the hotel lobby<br />
10 minutes prior to your scheduled departure time. Refer to your<br />
departure notices for times.<br />
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 11<br />
TOKYO / NAGOYA<br />
GROUPS 3 & 4 (times are approximate)<br />
10<br />
9:45 – 11:00 Asakusa (Sensoji Temple & Nakamise Shopping<br />
Arcade).<br />
11:30 – 12:45 Tokyo Skytree.<br />
1:15 – 2:45 Lunch at local restaurant.<br />
3:00 Leave restaurant for Tokyo Station by chartered bus<br />
Approx. 3:30 All groups arrive at Tokyo Station for Nagoya by<br />
JR Bullet Train.<br />
4:00 Leave Tokyo for Nagoya by JR Bullet Train NOZOMI<br />
#237.<br />
5:40 Arrive at Nagoya Station. Leave the station for the<br />
hotel by chartered bus.<br />
6:10 Arrive at the Nagoya Tokyu Hotel and check in.<br />
Time to refresh until 7pm.<br />
7:00 Gather to depart for dinner at a local restaurant.<br />
7:30 – 9:30 Dinner.<br />
9:45 Return to hotel. Accommodations at Nagoya<br />
Tokyu Hotel.<br />
On a rotation basis, each group will visit the following:<br />
• Okazaki plant visit.<br />
• Lunch at a local restaurant.<br />
• Nagoya Castle sightseeing.<br />
After returning to the hotel, you are free at leisure until the Welcome<br />
Dinner party. Please stay in the area within walking distance. If you<br />
are interested, please inquire at the Makita Hospitality Desk for<br />
directions.<br />
Suggested Places:<br />
• Mitsukoshi (Department Store).<br />
• LOFT (Variety Goods/Souvenir Store).<br />
Dress Code: Cocktail Attire<br />
ALL GROUPS<br />
6:00 Welcome Dinner Party at hotel.<br />
Please refer to your table number on the back side<br />
of your name badge.
SCHEDULE OVERVIEW<br />
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 13<br />
NAGOYA / KYOTO<br />
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 14<br />
KYOTO<br />
You will be checking out and departing out of this hotel and staying<br />
at a new hotel, so please prepare your luggage for staff to pick up<br />
and follow JTB staff guidance given the prior night for where to leave<br />
them for collection. Your baggage will be directly transported to the<br />
hotel in Nagoya by chartered truck separately.<br />
Dress Code: Casual<br />
Breakfast at the Hotel:<br />
You will be on your own for breakfast and will be provided a meal<br />
coupon voucher to eat at any of the following places:<br />
• Montmarte (1F) (Buffet) 6:30 onwards<br />
• Nadaman (2F ) (Japanese) 7:00 onwards<br />
Check-Out of Hotel. Please ensure you have checked out and all inroom<br />
charges are settled prior to departure. Please meet in the hotel<br />
lobby 10 minutes prior to scheduled departure time.<br />
ALL GROUPS<br />
9:00 Leave hotel for Nagoya Station by chartered bus.<br />
9:51 Leave Nagoya for Kyoto by JR Bullet Train<br />
NOZOMI #15.<br />
10:25 Arrive at Kyoto Station. Leave the station for half<br />
day sightseeing by chartered bus.<br />
11:00 – 12:30 Kiyomizu Temple.<br />
1:00 – 2:30 Lunch at a local restaurant.<br />
3:00 – 4:30 Experience of Kyoto Yuzen Dyeing.<br />
5:00 Arrive and check-in at hotel.<br />
7:00 Leave hotel for dinner by chartered bus. Dinner at<br />
a local restaurant.<br />
10:00 Return to the hotel. Accommodations at Hotel<br />
Granvia Kyoto.<br />
12<br />
Dress Code: Casual<br />
Breakfast at the Hotel:<br />
• Le Temps (2F) (Buffet) 6:30 onwards, by meal coupon<br />
• Ukishima (M3F) (Japanese) 7:00 onwards, by meal coupon<br />
• La Risata (15F) (Western Set Menu) 7:00 onwards, by meal<br />
coupon<br />
Please meet in the hotel lobby 10 minutes prior to scheduled<br />
departure time.<br />
GROUPS 1 & 2<br />
8:45 Leave hotel for half day of sightseeing of Kyoto<br />
by chartered bus visiting:<br />
• Rickshaw riding in Arashiyama area.<br />
• Tenryuji Temple.<br />
• Kinkakuji Temple.<br />
• Lunch at local restaurant.<br />
2:30 Arrive back at the hotel.<br />
GROUPS 3 & 4<br />
9:00 Leave hotel for half day of sightseeing of Kyoto<br />
by chartered bus visiting:<br />
• Tenryuji Temple.<br />
• Rickshaw riding in Arashiyama area.<br />
• Kinkakuji Temple.<br />
• Lunch at local restaurant.<br />
2:45 Arrive back at the hotel.<br />
ALL GROUPS<br />
Free at leisure for the rest of the day.<br />
The Makita Hospitality Desk can assist with directions and ideas.<br />
There are many shops and restaurants within walking distance and<br />
many inexpensive sights a short train/taxi ride away.<br />
13
SCHEDULE OVERVIEW<br />
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 15<br />
KYOTO / KANAZAWA / WAKURA<br />
You will be checking out and departing out of this hotel and staying<br />
at a new hotel, so please prepare your luggage for staff to pick up<br />
and follow JTB staff guidance given the prior night for where to leave<br />
them for collection. Your baggage will be transported separately to<br />
Tokyo for your stay tomorrow, September <strong>16</strong>. You will not have your<br />
luggage for tonight (it is transferred to Tokyo), so please pack a bag<br />
for one night stay and bring this overnight bag with you.<br />
Overnight Bag:<br />
• Change of clothes suggested for the evening banquet,<br />
sleepwear for overnight.<br />
• Change of clothes for the following day.<br />
• Anything else you will need before the group arrives to the<br />
hotel in Tokyo the next day.<br />
Dress Code: Casual<br />
Breakfast at the Hotel:<br />
You will be on your own for breakfast and will be provided a meal<br />
coupon voucher to eat at any of the following places:<br />
• Le Temps (2F) (Buffet) 6:30 onwards<br />
• Ukishima (M3F) (Japanese) 7:00 onwards<br />
• La Risata (15F) (Western Set Menu) 7:00 onwards<br />
Check-Out of Hotel. Please ensure you have checked out and all<br />
in-room charges are settled prior to departure. Please meet in the<br />
hotel lobby 10 minutes prior to scheduled departure time.<br />
GROUPS 1 & 2<br />
8:30 Leave hotel and walk to Kyoto Station.<br />
9:09 Leave Kyoto for Kanazawa by JR Express Train<br />
Thunderbird #9.<br />
11:13 Arrive at Kanazawa Station. Leave station for half<br />
day sightseeing of Kanazawa by chartered bus.<br />
11:45 – 12:45 Lunch at local restaurant.<br />
1:15 – 2:15 Kenrokuen Garden. Transfer to Wakura via<br />
Chirihama Nagisa Drive Way by chartered bus.<br />
4:00 Arrive at the Aenokaze Ryokan (Japanese<br />
traditional inn) and check in.<br />
GROUPS 3 & 4<br />
9:15 Leave hotel for Kyoto Station on foot.<br />
9:42 Leave Kyoto for Kanazawa by JR Express Train<br />
Thunderbird #11.<br />
11:56 Arrive at Kanazawa Station. Leave station for lunch<br />
by chartered bus.<br />
12:30 – 2:00 Lunch at local restaurant. Transfer to Wakura via<br />
Chirihama Nagisa Drive Way by chartered bus.<br />
3:30 Arrive at the Aenokaze Ryokan (Japanese<br />
traditional inn) and check in.<br />
ALL GROUPS<br />
Free at leisure until dinner.<br />
14<br />
15
SCHEDULE OVERVIEW<br />
SUGGESTED ACTIVITY<br />
You are encouraged to try a very traditional Japanese experience at<br />
the traditional inn: the Japanese hot spring, called an Onsen. The<br />
Onsen is a communal bath drawn from a natural hot spring and a<br />
traditionally integral part of the ryokan experience. The hot springs<br />
are usually enjoyed before dinner. Below is a guide to enjoying the<br />
baths.<br />
Hot Spring Rules<br />
1. Must I be naked for the bath? YES. No swimsuits are allowed.<br />
2. What if I am not comfortable bathing in a public bath?<br />
Please make use of the standard (not hot spring) bath in your<br />
room instead.<br />
3. Are tattoos allowed? Technically, no. Tattoos are prohibited<br />
in Japan due to association with organized crime. That being<br />
said, you are unlikely to be turned away at the bath, so you are<br />
encouraged to go.<br />
4. No photography is allowed. Do NOT bring your camera or<br />
your cell phone.<br />
1. What to Bring - Take a change of clothes (and Yukata that was<br />
provided) for changing into after the bath, along with the bath kit<br />
you will find in your room. Head to the appropriate bath (men’s<br />
and women’s are separate). You do NOT need to bring shampoo/<br />
soap from your bathroom – these are provided at the baths.<br />
2. Changing Area - Undress and store all your items/change of<br />
clothes in the lockers provided for you. Take the provided hand<br />
towel with you to the baths.<br />
3. Utilize the shower/wash area BEFORE entering the baths.<br />
As you might expect, it is taboo to enter the hot springs without<br />
properly cleaning yourself first.<br />
4. Enjoy the Onsen, in addition to the large hot spring bath, there<br />
is a Roten Buro, or outdoor hot spring, where you can enjoy<br />
magnificent views of the Nanao Bay.<br />
5. After enjoying the hot spring baths, return to the changing<br />
area and change into dress attire for the rest of the evening (see<br />
dress code).<br />
<strong>16</strong><br />
Dress Code: Yukata (Robe)<br />
Please wear your Yukata that was provided in your hotel room to<br />
the Japanese style banquet. Although the Yukata can function as<br />
a bathrobe, please keep in mind that since you will be seated crosslegged<br />
on mats/cushions and the evening’s proceedings will last a<br />
few hours, it is necessary to wear the Yukata over appropriate<br />
casual attire. Please dress accordingly underneath the Yukata.<br />
Dress Code: Casual<br />
ALL GROUPS<br />
7:00 Japanese Style Banquet at the hotel, followed<br />
by an optional after party.<br />
Breakfast at the Hotel:<br />
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER <strong>16</strong><br />
WAKURA / KANAZAWA / TOKYO<br />
• Garden Restaurant Naminohana (Japanese) 6:30 onwards,<br />
by stating room number<br />
Please ensure you have checked out and all in-room charges are<br />
settled prior to departure. Please meet in the hotel lobby 10 minutes<br />
prior to scheduled departure time.<br />
17
SCHEDULE OVERVIEW<br />
GROUPS 1 & 2<br />
9:30 Leave the ryokan for Kanazawa station by<br />
chartered bus.<br />
11:00 Arrive at Kanazawa station.<br />
11:56 Leave Kanazawa for Tokyo by JR bullet train<br />
Hakutaka #562 Box lunch on train.<br />
2:52 Arrive at Tokyo station.<br />
3:10 Leave the station for the hotel in Tokyo by<br />
chartered bus.<br />
3:40 Arrive at Grand Nikko Tokyo Daiba hotel and<br />
check in.<br />
GROUPS 3 & 4<br />
9:30 Leave the ryokan for a half day sightseeing of<br />
Kanazawa by chartered bus.<br />
11:00 – 12:00 Kenrokuen Garden. Transfer to Kanazawa Station<br />
by chartered bus.<br />
12:30 Arrive at Kanazawa station.<br />
12:56 Leave Kanazawa station for Tokyo by JR Bullet<br />
Train Hakutaka #564 Box lunch on train.<br />
3:50 Arrive at Tokyo station. Leave the station for<br />
hotel by chartered bus.<br />
4:40 Arrive at Grand Nikko Tokyo Daiba hotel and<br />
check in.<br />
Dress Code: Business Casual<br />
ALL GROUPS<br />
Free at leisure until dinner. Please meet in<br />
the hotel lobby 10 minutes prior to scheduled<br />
departure time.<br />
6:20 Depart for Farewell Dinner by chartered bus.<br />
7:00 Farewell Dinner.<br />
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 17<br />
TOKYO DEPARTURE / HOMETOWN ARRIVAL<br />
Breakfast at the Hotel:<br />
You will be on your own for breakfast and will be provided a meal<br />
coupon voucher to eat at any of the following places:<br />
• Star Road (30F) (Western Buffet) 6:30 onwards<br />
• Oshima (3F) (Japanese) 7:00 onwards<br />
Please ensure you have checked out and all in-room charges are<br />
settled prior to departure.<br />
Please bring down your luggage with you to expedite checkout<br />
and departure.<br />
Please meet in the hotel lobby 10 minutes prior to scheduled<br />
departure time.<br />
Leave hotel for Narita Airport by chartered bus.<br />
Departure notices will be provided to you to reconfirm your<br />
departure time.<br />
18<br />
19
HOTEL INFORMATION<br />
GRAND NIKKO TOKYO DAIBA<br />
Saturday, September 10 + Friday, September <strong>16</strong><br />
2-6-1, Daiba, Minato-ku, Tokyo<br />
Tel: 03-5500-6711 | Fax: 03-550-4507<br />
NAGOYA TOKYU HOTEL<br />
Sunday, September 11 + Monday, September 12<br />
4-6-8, Sakae, Naka-ku, Nagoya-shi, Aichi<br />
Tel: 052-521-2411 | Fax: 052-251-2422<br />
HOTEL GRANVIA KYOTO<br />
Tuesday, September 13 + Wednesday, September 14<br />
JR Kyoto Station, Karasuma Chuo-guchi, 901 Higashi-Shiokoji-cho,<br />
Shiokoji-Sagaru, Karasuma-Dori, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto<br />
Tel: 075-344-8888 | Fax: 075-344-4400<br />
AENOKAZE<br />
Thursday, September 15<br />
8-1 Wakazaki Wakuramachi, Nanao-shi, Ishikawa-ken 926-0175<br />
Tel: 0767-62-3333 | Fax: 0767-62-1123<br />
Hotel Check In<br />
During your stay at all hotels, you will be required to provide the<br />
hotel reception a credit card to guarantee your incidental account.<br />
Incidental Room Account<br />
Your incidental account (including telephone, laundry service,<br />
mini-bar, pay TV, room service charges, etc.) must be paid prior<br />
to your departure from each hotel. Please ensure that you allow<br />
sufficient time to check out and settle your account. The hotel will<br />
accept cash or major credit cards.<br />
Guest Room Amenities<br />
The guest rooms at all the hotels are equipped with phones, TV,<br />
hair dryer, in-room safe. Iron and ironing boards are not standard<br />
in each room and will be provided on request. For your electronics<br />
and any electric appliances, you may need adapters with limited<br />
on-request availability. Please see “Electricity” for more details.<br />
20<br />
21
DESTINATION OVERVIEW<br />
TOKYO<br />
Tokyo, Japan’s bustling capital mixes the ultramodern and<br />
the traditional, from neon-lit skyscrapers and anime shops<br />
to cherry trees and temples. The Greater Tokyo Area is<br />
the most populous metropolitan area in the world, with a<br />
population of nearly 37 million. (For comparison, the New<br />
York City metropolitan population is about 20 million.)<br />
The Tokyo Skytree is a modern engineering marvel<br />
completed in 2011. At 2,080 ft, it is the tallest tower in<br />
the world and the second tallest structure (after the Burj<br />
Khalifa in Dubai). The vibrant downtown Asakusa district<br />
is home to a unique combination of Tokyo-ite merchant<br />
and arts culture which is simultaneously traditional and<br />
progressively modern – a combination that is very much<br />
a part of the spirit of Tokyo.<br />
NAGOYA<br />
Nagoya is the capital and largest city of Aichi<br />
prefecture, in the Chubu region of Honshu and is<br />
one of Japan’s major ports. It is also the center of<br />
Japan’s third largest metropolitan region, known as<br />
the Chūkyō Metropolitan Area. The hub of the Aichi<br />
region, Nagoya is Japan’s fourth-largest city after<br />
Tokyo, Yokohama, and Osaka and one of the nation’s<br />
major economic centers. Makita traces its history to<br />
1915 and the establishment of Makita Electric work<br />
in Nagoya. Today it is home to a Makita Branch office<br />
and manufacturing plant.<br />
TOKYO<br />
22<br />
23
DESTINATION OVERVIEW<br />
KYOTO<br />
Kyoto, once the capital of Japan, is a refined city on the island<br />
of Honshu with thousands of classical Buddhist temples, as<br />
well as gardens, imperial palaces, Shinto shrines and traditional<br />
wooden houses. It’s also known for formal traditions such as<br />
kaiseki dining, consisting of multiple courses of precise dishes,<br />
and geisha, female entertainers often found in the Gion district.<br />
KANAZAWA / WAKURA<br />
During the Edo Period, Kanazawa served as the seat of<br />
the Maeda Clan, the second most powerful feudal clan<br />
after the Tokugawa in terms of rice production and fief size.<br />
Accordingly, Kanazawa grew to become a town of great cultural<br />
achievements, rivaling Kyoto and Edo (Tokyo).<br />
Today, Kanazawa remains an important city in its region and<br />
serves as the capital of Ishikawa Prefecture. The city boasts<br />
many historical attractions such as restored residences<br />
and districts, as well as modern museums. But Kanazawa’s<br />
unchallenged main attraction is Kenrokuen, one of Japan’s<br />
“three best landscape gardens” and by many considered the<br />
most beautiful of them all.<br />
Wakura is a hot spring town on the Noto Peninsula in Ishikawa<br />
Prefecture, just north of Kanazawa. Wakura has a long history<br />
as an Onsen town, or hot spring town. Japanese locals have<br />
been traveling here for a getaway destination for over a<br />
thousand years. Staying at a Ryokan, or traditional inn, and<br />
enjoying the hot springs looking out towards Nanao Bay is a<br />
unique Japanese experience.<br />
KYOTO<br />
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25
GENERAL INFORMATION<br />
TOKYO<br />
HIGH<br />
26º C / 79º F<br />
LOW<br />
20º C / 68º F<br />
NAGOYA<br />
HIGH<br />
26º C / 79º F<br />
LOW<br />
22º C / 72º F<br />
KYOTO<br />
HIGH<br />
28º C / 82º F<br />
LOW<br />
20º C / 68º F<br />
KANAZAWA<br />
HIGH<br />
27º C / 80º F<br />
LOW<br />
20º C / 68º F<br />
Casual attire will be appropriate for most activities and functions<br />
during the 20<strong>16</strong> Incentive Trip. It is recommended that you plan your<br />
wardrobe with “layering” in mind to anticipate any possible changes<br />
in the weather. Casual clothes are advisable for day tours, along with<br />
comfortable walking shoes. Please be sure to pack appropriate attire<br />
for your pre-selected optional activities. Dresses, pant suits, suits<br />
and dress shoes are appropriate for most evening activities.<br />
SUGGESTED ATTIRE DESCRIPTIONS<br />
Casual: Golf shirts, jeans, slacks, khakis or shorts for<br />
men; skirts, jeans, slacks, capris or shorts for women.<br />
Business Casual: Slacks and collared shirts for men:<br />
skirts, slacks or dresses for women. Closed-toe shoes<br />
for men and dress shoes for women.<br />
Cocktail Attire: Suits, sports coats (tie is optional) for<br />
men; dressy pantsuits or cocktail dresses for women;<br />
closed-toe shoes for men and dress shoes for women.<br />
Please refer to the daily itinerary for specific attire suggestions.<br />
Cultural Comment: Although there are not many specific rules to<br />
follow for appropriateness in Japan, Japanese attire in practice is<br />
culturally conservative relative to American norms. If in doubt, it is<br />
usually recommended to go with the more conservative attire.<br />
Temperatures should be mostly nice average temperatures.<br />
Japan is a temperate country, and there is some likelihood<br />
of rain during the trip.<br />
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27
GENERAL INFORMATION<br />
Currency<br />
The Japanese currency is the yen. Bills come in 1,000 yen, 2,000<br />
yen (very rare), 5,000 yen and 10,000 yen denominations. Coins<br />
come in 1 yen, 5 yen, 10 yen, 50 yen, 100 yen and 500 yen<br />
denominations. Counterfeit money is not an issue in Japan.<br />
Currency Exchange<br />
Currency exchange is offered at the first hotel, the Grand Nikko<br />
Tokyo Daiba Hotel. However, since there are not many stops along<br />
the itinerary to exchange currency, it is recommended that you have<br />
yen available for some spending money for personal expenses and<br />
for on-own portions of the trip prior to your departure from you<br />
hometown.<br />
You can exchange your currency at many major banks so it is<br />
recommended you check with your bank. In addition, Travelex ATMs<br />
or Travelex currency exchange kiosks in many major malls may offer<br />
a convenient solution near you.<br />
Japan has a reputation of being a cash-based society, but trends<br />
have gradually been changing, and there has been a significant<br />
increase in the acceptance of other payment methods. The following<br />
are the modes of payment that you might use when visiting Japan:<br />
Cash<br />
Cash is still the preferred payment method, especially when it<br />
involves small amounts. Big bills are readily used and accepted in<br />
Japan; you are unlikely to be frowned upon for using a 10,000 yen<br />
bill to pay even for low-cost items, although smaller denominations<br />
are appreciated for payments made in taxis, smaller shops, temples<br />
and shrines. The likelihood that credit cards are accepted decreases<br />
in small cities and towns, and thus it is advisable to keep cash at<br />
hand when visiting rural areas.<br />
Cash is usually the only way to pay for small entrance fees at tourist<br />
sights, at smaller restaurants and small shops. The majority of<br />
lockers also require coins. Preparing coins in advance when using<br />
buses and trams is a good idea. Buses generally do not accept bills<br />
above 1,000 yen, and the bus driver may not carry any larger bills.<br />
Vending machines typically accept 10, 50, 100 and 500 yen coins<br />
and 1,000 yen bills. Newer machines typically also accept 5,000<br />
and 10,000 yen bills.<br />
Credit Cards<br />
There is an increased acceptance of credit and debit cards,<br />
especially in big cities. Most hotels accept payment by credit<br />
cards nowadays, as do most department stores, mid to high end<br />
restaurants, outlet malls and large retail shops. In addition, many<br />
train stations, convenience stores, supermarkets, chain restaurants<br />
and boutiques also accept them.<br />
ATM Withdrawal<br />
Many ATMs in Japan do not accept cards that are issued outside of<br />
Japan. The big exceptions are the ATMs found at the over 20,000<br />
post offices and over 10,000 7-Eleven convenience stores across<br />
the country. Exchange rates offered at ATMs tend to be competitive,<br />
but service fees vary widely depending on the card. Inquire with your<br />
card issuer in advance. Note that many ATMs in Japan are out of<br />
service during the night, and some are unavailable on weekends.<br />
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29
GENERAL INFORMATION<br />
Makita Hospitality Desk<br />
A dedicated Makita Hospitality Desk will be operational throughout<br />
the program. The team will be pleased to assist you with general<br />
inquiries.<br />
After Hours<br />
Please inquire at the Makita Hospitality Desk of after hours activity<br />
suggestions.<br />
Need Help – Emergency Contact Information<br />
Russell Kuwahara, On-site Program Manager<br />
Dialing from US: 310-897-3189<br />
Dialing from Japan: +1-310-897-3189<br />
JTB in Japan<br />
Dialing from Japan: 03-5796-5462<br />
Dialing from USA: +81-3-5796-5462<br />
Please mention “Makita Group” when calling.<br />
Health<br />
The following information must be viewed as a guide only. It<br />
is not intended, nor implied to be a substitute for professional<br />
medical advice. Specific travel health advice is recommended on<br />
an individual basis, taking into account the personal health of the<br />
traveller. Makita is providing basic accident and medical expense<br />
insurance.<br />
There is currently no vaccination requirement for travelers visiting<br />
Japan.<br />
Should you suffer from a medical condition such as asthma,<br />
diabetes or an allergy, please advise JTB prior to travel so that we<br />
are able to take the appropriate action should a situation arise.<br />
Electricity<br />
The voltage in Japan is 100V, which is different from the US (120V).<br />
However, power outlets are identical to American ungrounded (2-pin)<br />
outlets. There is a mixture of polarized (one slot is slightly wider<br />
than the other) and non-polarized outlets, though these days most<br />
are polarized. Most of your plugs and electrical devices will work<br />
just like in the US. However, some devices (especially equipment<br />
involving heating like hair dryers) may not work properly. For 3-prong<br />
devices, you may need an adapter. Such adapters are often available<br />
in limited quantities from the hotels, however, you may wish to bring<br />
your own.<br />
Mobile Phones<br />
Cell phone service is prevalent in Japan, however, networks vary<br />
from those in the US. If you wish to avoid potential costly roaming<br />
charges, turn off your data and roaming services. You may also<br />
need to set your device to the appropriate mode. We recommend<br />
checking with your cellular carrier as each carrier is different.<br />
If you wish to enable talk or data roaming, please check with your<br />
cellular company.<br />
Passport<br />
It is very important to make sure that you have all travel documents<br />
prepared before leaving on your trip. If documents are not all<br />
completed in time then there may be an option to expedite your<br />
passport; however, this will be covered by you if you wait for the last<br />
minute to apply. Remember that your passport expiration date, if<br />
you currently have a passport, must be valid for the period of stay in<br />
Japan. Please see the material below if you need to renew / apply for<br />
a new passport. Also, be sure to see if you need to apply for a Visa<br />
on the Escape to Japan website.<br />
If you are taking prescribed medication, please ensure that you<br />
have an ample supply in your possession as you may not be able to<br />
purchase the same medication in Japan. All medication should be<br />
carried in prescriptive packaging that shows the physician’s name<br />
and dosage instructions.<br />
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31
GENERAL INFORMATION<br />
Immigration<br />
All non-Japanese citizens, including foreign residents, get<br />
fingerprinted and photographed upon entering Japan as a measure<br />
aimed at preventing terrorism.<br />
All non-Japanese citizens receive a status of residence when<br />
entering Japan. There are more than twenty statuses of residence,<br />
including “temporary visitor” for tourists, and a range of statuses for<br />
students, workers and relatives of Japanese nationals and residents.<br />
If you are a citizen of one of the 67 countries with which Japan has<br />
a “general visa exemption arrangement”, you need only a valid<br />
passport to enter Japan as a “temporary visitor”. Otherwise, you<br />
need to obtain a visa before entering the country.<br />
All foreign tourists in Japan are required to carry their passports<br />
with them at all times.<br />
Personal Safety<br />
Japan is considered a safe destination and visitors rarely encounter<br />
violence. However please keep the following points in mind:<br />
Secure your valuables in the hotel room safe or on your person.<br />
Carry only what you need for your immediate requirements along<br />
with your passport. For added security, it is recommended you take<br />
a photocopy of your passport and keep in your wallet and/or luggage.<br />
Be aware of happenings around you. Attend to your belongings<br />
especially when you are in a crowded area. Petty crime, including<br />
pick-pocketing and bag snatching, though rare in Japan, is not<br />
unheard of.<br />
Do not invite strangers back to your hotel.<br />
Time Difference<br />
Japan Time vs Eastern Time +13 hours<br />
32<br />
vs Central Time +14 hours<br />
vs Pacific Time<br />
vs Hawaii<br />
+<strong>16</strong> hours<br />
+19 hours<br />
Tipping<br />
In Japan, it is not customary to tip for hotel, transportation, guide,<br />
or other services. Basically throughout the trip you do not need to<br />
tip anyone. In fact if you attempt to tip, please do not be offended if<br />
it is politely refused.<br />
Travel Insurance<br />
Basic travel insurance is being provided by Makita. Should an<br />
incident occur, please report it to a JTB or Makita Staff Member<br />
immediately. They will then help file a report within the required time<br />
frames for the insurance claim to be processed.<br />
Personal Expense<br />
Each participant shall pay any and all personal expenses incurred by<br />
that individual for activities other than those sponsored by Makita.<br />
You will be responsible for the following expenses:<br />
• Incidentals during the trip<br />
• Baggage fees for US connection flights on either end of the<br />
trip will be required at the airport.<br />
• 9/17 Morning – For those departing later in the evening, there<br />
will similarly be some at leisure time where you may wish to do<br />
some shopping or sightseeing before you return to the hotel<br />
and departing with the group for the airport.<br />
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WHAT TO PACK<br />
NOTES<br />
CHECK LIST<br />
qq<br />
Your passport with applicable visas.<br />
qq<br />
Your Itinerary and Program of Events Booklet.<br />
qq<br />
Overnight Bag for one night stay. See agenda for September 15<br />
for details.<br />
qq<br />
All personal requirements (i.e. clothing, toiletries, etc.).<br />
qq<br />
Comfortable shoes for day activities.<br />
qq<br />
Cocktail attire for certain dinners. See agenda for details.<br />
qq<br />
Personal medications.<br />
qq<br />
Spending money in yen.<br />
qq<br />
Cameras and chargers.<br />
qq<br />
Universal power plug adapters (optional).<br />
qq<br />
Photocopy of passport, travel itinerary and travel insurance policy<br />
(if applicable). It’s a good idea to leave a copy of this information<br />
with a relative back home.<br />
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makitatools.com