DESTINATION:
Dear 2014 Conference Delegates and Honored Guests,
Yamagata | Japan
During the past year, the 2014 JCI Conference Organizing Committee has been developing an exciting, enlightening and entertaining event. JCI members will be presented with unique opportunities to engage with thought leaders, receive valuable training and develop partnerships that will lead to greater collaboration for positive change. This 2014 JCI Asia-Pacific Conference in Yamagata, Japan will truly be a wonderful, unique experience.
A PRACTICAL GUIDE TO THE 2014 JCI ASIA-PACIFIC CONFERENCE
Japan is a diverse island nation in East Asia known for dynamic culture, rich history and unique landscape making it an exciting travel destination. Its diversity ensures an unforgettable experience in a land of extraordinary food, music, busy urban attractions, tranquil rural landscapes and countless sights to explore. Yamagata is located in a mountainous region of Japan and is home to the beautiful Mogami River. Tourists can enjoy leisurely boat excursions on this river. Mountains surround the city allowing for a very diverse climate consisting of all four seasons, from sun to rain to heavy snow and back. Yamagata is known for its production of fruits, especially cherries and grapes as well as its home-farmed rice and locally brewed sake. Outdoor activities like paragliding, camping and hiking are also popular among visitors. Bring your enthusiasm, ideas and passion to each Conference event, workshop and seminar and leave with the tools, skills and new partnerships you need, to be the leaders your communities need. The Conference Organizing Committee and I are happy to help you in any way throughout the event. Do not hesitate to ask, should you have any questions. Thank you, and I look forward to seeing you this June to create impact in Yamagata, Japan! Best regards,
Ken Wong 2014 JCI Executive Vice President for Asia and the Pacific
Conference Information Accommodation Headquarters Hotel Hotel Metropolitan Yamagata 1-1-1 Kasumicho, Yamagata 990-0039 International Tel: +81-23-628-1111 International Fax: +81-23-628-1166 Domestic Tel: 023-628-1111 Domestic Fax: 023-628-1167 Email: room@metro-yamagata.jp Website: www.metro-yamagata.jp Access: May be accessed directly from the JR Yamagata Station Senate Hotel Yamagata Grand Hotel 1-7-42 Honcho, Yamagata 9900043
Venues
International Tel: +81-23-641-2611 International Fax: +81-23-641-2621
The Hotel Metropolitan Yamagata, located in the center of the city of Yamagata, with direct access to JR Yamagata station, is the headquarters for 2014 JCI Asia-Pacific Conference. All main events and programming at the Area Conference will be held at this hotel.
Domestic Tel: 023-641-2611 Domestic Fax: 023-641-2621
The hotel also offers excellent access to the venues for the Area Conference night events and ceremonies: • The General Sports Center is the biggest gymnasium in the city of Yamagata and will serve as the venue for the Opening Ceremony. • The Yamagata Big Wing is the largest convention center in the northern section of Yamagata and will serve as the venue for the Gala and National Nights. • All locations are no further than a 15-minute drive by car from the Headquarters Hotel. The Conference Organizing Committee (COC) will arrange shuttle bus transportation from the Headquarters Hotel to all the main venues during the Conference.
E-mail: info@yamagatagrandhotel.co.jp Website: www.yamagatagrandhotel.co.jp Access: Five minutes from JR Yamagata Station by car, fifteen minutes on foot.
Registration Delegates are strongly encouraged to register online before arriving in the city of Yamagata. Upon arrival, registered delegates from overseas should pick up their name-badges at Kajo Central (www.kajocentral.com/) and JCI Japan delegates should pick up theirs at the Yamagata Grand Hotel. The registration desks will be open from June 3 – 6, from 08:00 to 20:00 each day. Only registered delegates will be admitted to official events and admission will be restricted to delegates wearing Conference badges and holding event entry tickets, when necessary.
Travel Visa Citizens of some countries may be required to obtain visas, permitting them entry to Japan. To find out if a visa is required for you to enter Japan, please check the official website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan (MOFA) for detailed information on visas needed to enter Japan, as well as who needs them: www.mofa.go.jp/j_info/visit/visa/index.html
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If you require a visa to enter Japan, please contact the Japanese embassy or consulate in your country as soon as possible, to initiate the visa application process, as it may take up to a few months to obtain your visa. Visas must be obtained prior to arrival in Japan, as it is impossible to obtain them after arriving in Japan. The Japanese government also advises that when entering Japan, you may be asked to present one of the following documents: • A hotel reservation • A return ticket • Some proof that you have sufficient funds to cover the cost of your visit, such as cash, checks, or credit cards that are valid for use in Japan, or a document certified by the respective Japanese embassy or consulate in your country indicating that you possess adequate funds or financial support for your stay in Japan.
Travel by Air Regular flights from Haneda Airport in Tokyo and Itami Airport in Osaka fly into Yamagata Airport, the closest airport to the city of Yamagata. There is no public transport available between the airport and the city of Yamagata, so you will need to reserve a seat on the Airport Liner limousine taxi service for transportation to the city. The one-way ticket on the Airport Liner is 1200¥ per person. The city of Yamagata may also be accessed from Sendai Airport. The Sendai Airport Senzan Line travels to the city of Yamagata. The trip takes two hours and 10 minutes and the one-way ticket costs 1680 ¥ per person. The Headquarters Hotel is located directly above the Yamagata JR Station, and all hotels around the headquarters hotel are accessible by a ten-minute taxi ride.
Should you require a letter of invitation from the Conference Organizing Committee, please be sure to indicate this when filling out your registration form. Please also make sure to include your passport information, which will be needed to create the necessary documents. Also please note that letters of invitation will only be issued after registration payment has been received.
Conference Event Attire National dress, dark business suits or tuxedos, cocktail or evening dresses will be appropriate for: • Opening Ceremony • Awards Ceremony • Conference Gala Business suits or national dress are appropriate for: • General Assemblies • Other business sessions Business casual attire is appropriate for: • JCI Official courses, seminars and workshops Casual dress (unless otherwise indicated) is appropriate for: • National parties • Community Engagement Activity
Transportation
About Yamagata, Japan Yamagata prefecture is located in the Tohoku region of Japan, alongside the Japan Sea. The population of the city of Yamagata is about 250,000. It is approximately 300 km north of Tokyo and a three-hour ride by Shinkansen from Tokyo. Yamagata is famous for rice, seasonal fruits, and the production of high quality beef and pork. Yamagata produces 70% of the cherries grown in Japan and these will be coming into season during June when the Conference is taking place. Yamagata is a center for food production. It also has developed into a center for research into cutting edge technology, such as organic electroluminescence. Many computer companies have located to Yamagata and are involved in hardware production. Don’t miss out on the beautiful outdoor wonders of Yamagata including hot springs, nearby mountain ranges and the luscious landscape along the Mogami River.
Tavel by Train The Yamagata Shinkansen, part of Japan’s high speed rail system, serves the city of Yamagata and departs Tokyo JR Station, usually once an hour on the hour. It takes three hours to complete the journey to Yamagata. Please note that the ticket consists of the regular train fare plus an additional surcharge for the Shinkansen service. Reserved seats are available for an extra surcharge.
2014 JCI Asia-Pacific Conference : YAMAGATA, JAPAN • JUNE 4 – 7
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Exploring Yamagata Yamadera The Hojusan Risshakuji, commonly known as the Yamadera, was established by Jikaku-daishi in the year 860, and this temple is one of the most famous religious sites in the Tohoku district. It is also famous for having inspired the haiku poet Matsuo Basho to stop and compose the well-known haiku “The stillness ~ soaking into stones cicadas’ cry” which is counted among his masterpieces.
Zao The Zao Mountain Range is famous for its Juhyo, or “snow monsters,” and the Zao Onsen, is famous throughout Japan for its abundant hot springs. From spring through fall, it is popular to go hiking in the area to view the fresh green leaves, alpine plants and the changing of colors in autumn. In winter, you can enjoy skiing and snowboarding throughout the Juhyo field course while looking at the silver frosted trees, the snow monsters, which are well known around the world.
Kajo-koen (Kajo Park) The famous gate, Ni-no-maru, is located in Kajo Park amidst the ruins of Yamagata Castle. The gate was constructed in 1991, based on the historical plans of the wooden building. In the park, you can enjoy the view of 1500 cherry trees in full bloom in spring. Also, the outdoor tea ceremony is held at that time.
Bunshokan The Bunshokan, built in the style of the renaissance, was established as the Yamagata prefectural government office and prefectural assembly hall. The building is made of granite and was completed in 1916. It has been designated as a national treasure and is now a museum.
Weather The city of Yamagata is situated in a valley surrounded on all sides by mountains, and the climate is characterized by four distinct seasons. The temperature in June, during the Asia-Pacific Conference, ranges from an average high of 25ºC (77ºF) to an average low of 13ºC (55ºF). Although the rainy season arrives around the middle of June, it is expected that the weather will be clear during the time in which the conference is held.
Language The official language of Japan is Japanese, but most public transportation signs are written in both English and Japanese. Additionally, due to the fact that some 60% of overseas tourists visiting Yamagata are from Taiwan, and more and more tourists have been coming from Korea, many public facilities have signs written in Chinese and Korean as well. The official language of 2014 JCI Asia-Pacific Conference is English and simultaneous interpretation in Japanese will be offered at certain events.
Health There are not any special vaccine specifications to enter the city or the country.
Time Zone Standard time zone: UTC/GMT +9 hours Japan is 9 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time.
Electricity The current in Japan is 100v. The electrical grid in the eastern half of Japan, in which Yamagata is included, runs at 50 Hz, and the western half of Japan runs at 60 Hz. Japanese plugs are designed to fit a two-flat pin outlet, Type A. More rarely, Type B outlets are found.
Type A
Type B
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Tourism Resources Entertainment, shopping and historical tours, among other recreational activities, are available in Yamagata. If you would like something special to do, or wish to decide how to schedule your perfect post-Conference plans, please visit the following websites for more information. JTB Sunrise Tours www.jtb-sunrisetours.jp/ Travel Partner Co., Ltd. www.travelpartner.jp/ Yamashin Kanko Corporation www.travel-ysk.jp/index.html
Currency The unit of currency in Japan is the Japanese Yen (yen sign: ¥). Non-Japanese currencies are not acceptable for cash payments in Japan. Exchanging Currency Banks will exchange a wide variety of foreign currencies, but the best currency to exchange is the US Dollar. Please note that ATM machines will not exchange foreign currencies, and additionally, most banks and their ATM machines are closed at night. Credit Cards Credit cards are widely accepted throughout Japan. The most widely accepted are Visa and MasterCard; American Express and Diners Club are less common. Please make sure to keep photocopies of all of your credit cards and documents in case of theft or loss. Also, make sure to check with your bank to see if your credit card is valid overseas and alert your home bank of your travel plans.
Internet Access Most hotels provide Internet access points and Wi-Fi is also available in many restaurants and public facilities throughout the city. The lobby of the Headquarters Hotel also provides Wi-Fi access.
Cultural Notes Ancient Japan was influenced by the cultures of mainland Asia, especially from neighboring China. This influence lasted through the middle ages. In more recent times, Japan has been influenced by western culture, and this mixture has given rise to contemporary Japanese society. The two main spiritual currents of Japan are comprised of Buddhism, which was introduced from China, and Japan’s indigenous spirituality, Shinto. Christianity also has had an influence on Japan and many different religions coexist today in Japan. Concerning the Japanese character, not openly expressing one’s thoughts is considered a virtue in Japan; therefore, most people refrain from directly expressing their feelings to others. On the other hand, since ancient times, the Japanese have valued the spirit of Omotenashi, traditional Japanese hospitality, expressed in the dedicated and exquisite manner in which guests are treated. Washoku, traditional Japanese cuisine, which was this year added to the UNESCO World Heritage list as an intangible cultural treasure of the world, is famous for its unique features, such as its delicate seasoning. Traditional Japanese cuisine is very unique and a treasured feature of the country. Although the Japanese traditionally bow when greeting each other, as a sign of respect, handshakes and business cards are exchanged when meeting in a business setting. Public displays of affection, even just kissing on the cheek are almost never seen, even between close friends.
Attire in Yamagata Like most Japanese people, the people in Yamagata are very conscious of the latest trends and fashions. In Japan, how one dresses depends on the season and the Japanese change their wardrobes with each new season. Companies and schools usually switch to summer clothing on June 1, and there are nationwide campaigns such as Cool Biz, which was introduced by the government to save energy and fight global warming by encouraging people to wear seasonal clothing, such as button-down long sleeve shirts without a jacket or tie in summer and a cardigan in winter.
2014 JCI Asia-Pacific Conference : YAMAGATA, JAPAN • JUNE 4 – 7
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Conference Key Events Opening Ceremony Kicking off the 2014 JCI Asia-Pacific Conference, Chief Delegates and JCI National Presidents will come together at the Opening Ceremony to greet the delegates, represent their countries and model their traditional dress. Come cheer for your National Organization, enjoy great entertainment and connect with JCI’s vibrant community of young active citizens. Wednesday 4 June 17:30 – 19:30 Main Arena ∙ Yamagata General Sport Center
Impact Forums and Sessions Discover how young people around Asia and the Pacific and JCI partners are creating a better world with their actions! First Timers Session Wednesday 4 June 14:30 – 16:00 3rd Floor, Dewa ∙ Hotel Metropolitan Yamagata JCI Morning Show Thursday 5 June 09:00 – 10:00 4th Floor, Kajo ∙ Hotel Metropolitan Yamagata
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JCI Active Citizen FrameWorkshop Thursday 5 June 14:30 – 15:30 Applause B ∙ Yamagata Terrsa JCI Impact Strategy Forum Thursday 5 June 15:30 – 17:30 Applause A ∙ Yamagata Terrsa MDG Project Showcase Thursday 5 June 16:00 – 17:30 Applause B ∙ Yamagata Terrsa
National Presidents Meeting and General Assembly See the major decisions your National representatives will make this year to create impact across Asia and the Pacific. National Presidents Meeting Wednesday 4 June 09:00 – 12:30 3rd Floor, Dewa ∙ Hotel Metropolitan Yamagata General Assembly 1 Thursday 5 June 10:15 – 12:00 4th Floor, Kajo ∙ Hotel Metropolitan Yamagata General Assembly 2 Friday 6 June 14:00 – 17:00 4th Floor, Kajo ∙ Hotel Metropolitan Yamagata
JCI Programs
National Nights and Parties
JCI members are challenged to show their impact at the international level. Don’t miss the most exiting competitions and sharing of best practices at the Conference!
The members of JCI are working hard everyday achieve personal growth, skill development and most of all creating sustainable global impact. We can also really enjoy a good party. Don’t forget to put on conference name badge and go out to make some new friends from around the world.
JCI World Public Speaking Championship Friday 6 June 09:00 – 10:30 4th Floor, Kajo ∙ Hotel Metropolitan Yamagata JCI Twinning Ceremony Friday 6 June 10:30 – 12:30 4th Floor, Kajo ∙ Hotel Metropolitan Yamagata JCI World Debating Championship Friday 6 June 11:00 – 12:30 3rd Floor, Dewa ∙ Hotel Metropolitan Yamagata JCI Awards Ceremony Saturday 7 June 16:15 – 18:00 Main Hall ∙ Yamagata Civic Hall
Community Engagement Project Don’t miss an amazing opportunity to unite with the Millennium Campaign, local community partners in Yamagata and other young active citizens to raise awareness about the MDGs, their approaching deadline and what comes next! Engage with local stakeholders to discover how these eight time bound development goals affect their community and what solutions they are creating to achieve sustainable impact. Take action with local partners distributing MY World surveys and sharing the voice of the Yamagata community in the creation of the post 2015 global development agenda. Continue your journey of impact on the ground in Yamagata and encourage other young active citizens to create a better world with you today! Saturday 7 June 14:00 – 16:00 Lacation TBA
National Nights, hosted by JCI National Organizations will provide national food and drink from a variety of countries. Please check the schedule for the venues and then, when night falls you can go out with your new friends. National Nights will be held on Thursday, June 6 and Friday, June 7 at the Yamagata Big Wing. Host countries are the following seven countries: Taiwan, Korea, Mongolia, Malaysia, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia and of course Japan. Welcome Party Wednesday 4 June 20:00 – 23:00 Garden ∙ Yamagata General Sport Center JCI National Parties Thursday 5 June 21:00 – 23:00 JCI Hong Kong: 2nd Floor, International Hall ∙ Big Wing JCI Indonesia: 4th Floor, Meeting Room ∙ Big Wing JCI Korea: 1st Floor, Main Hall ∙ Big Wing JCI Mongolia: 4th Floor, Meeting Room 401 & 402 ∙ Big Wing JCI Japan Night Friday 6 June 19:30 – 23:00 1st Floor, Main Hall ∙ Big Wing JCI National Parties Friday 6 June 21:00 – 23:00 JCI India: 4th Floor, Meeting Room ∙ Big Wing JCI Malasia: 4th Floor, Meeting Room 401 & 402 ∙ Big Wing JCI Taiwan: 2nd Floor, International Hall ∙ Big Wing Gala Dinner Saturday 7 June 20:00 – 00:00 1st Floor, Main Hall ∙ Big Wing
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Contact Information
Reporting a fire, or calling for emergency medical assistance
The Conference Organizing Committee can be reached at:
To report a fire, dial 119 and explain that there is a fire. You may also dial 119 to call for an ambulance if you are suffering from a medical emergency, such as an injury, heart attack, food poisoning or any other condition, which requires immediate medical assistance.
2-1-3 3rd floor, Nanukamachi Yamagata 990-0042
Reporting a traffic accident
International Tel: +81-23-665-0828 International Fax: +81-23-665-0829
In the event of a traffic accident, please dial 110 to report that you have been involved in a traffic accident. If you do not speak Japanese, first inform the police officer of your nationality and your spoken language, and then follow his or her instructions. Depending on the situation, the police may call for an ambulance to be sent by the Fire Department.
Conference Organizing Committee
Domestic Tel: 023-665-0828 Domestic Fax: 023-665-0828 Website: www.2014aspac.com
Emergency In the event of an emergency, please dial 110 for the Police Department or 119 for the Fire Department. Both of these numbers can be called free of charge from any landline, payphone or cellphone 24 hours a day and 365 days a year.
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• General Emergency & Police: 110 • Ambulance & Fire : 119 • Traffic Accident: 110