Preparation for a trip and if trouble arises while traveling

Before coming to Fukuoka, it is better to make a brief itinerary for your trip, for example “where you are going” or “what you are doing” depends on the purpose of you visit and travel style. However, it is also good idea to travel without any plan. If you are in favor of a casual travel, get the latest local information and pamphlets at tourist information centers.

Guidance of major banks and ATM machine for currency exchange in Tenjin and Hakata area. Banks for currency exchange where is able to exchange foreign currency into Japanese yen is limited in availability, as well as usage of ATM machine to withdraw some cash with your credit card. Please note that you will be charged for handlings when using ATM machine and its available hours are also limited.

You would buy many souvenirs for your family and friends as well as for yourself while traveling. To enjoy your shopping thoroughly is good, but you need to carry lots of bags at the same time. In that case, you can send your heavy luggage to your home by using delivery service so that you can travel light.

Duty free shop is located in Fukuoka airport only. Foreign visitors who spend over JPY10,001 at the department stores and electronic shops can get a 5% tax refund as long as procedure is made within 6 months from purchase. You can do this by showing your passport and receipts at the place you shopped. However, food, films and batteries are not subject to the tax refund.

It is hard to carry a large baggage around while moving from place to place! In such case, coin lockers are useful. They are mainly located at stations and department stores, it usually costs 300-500yen but the fee varies between the sizes and locations. The date is replaced after midnight and then additional fee will be charged. Please be careful the usage period is 3 days at maximum and after it is expired, the baggage will be removed without notice.

It is hard to shop with children. Let’s use baby strollers! You can rent them at the department stores.

International calls and Internet are a communication tool to contact to foreign countries from Japan. Internet in particular can be used at net café which opens 24 hours and there is a facility where foreigners can use internet for free.

Please contact the following address, in case of lost baggage, feel sick or some emergency occurred. It is good idea to take a memo such as contact numbers in advance.