Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Maps
with several detailed insets of the major sightseeing districts. Also available is the
Bus
Navi: Kyoto City Bus Sightseeing Map,
which has detailed information on bus routes in
the city and some of the major stops written in both English and Japanese.
There are many other useful maps for sale at local English-language bookshops, some
of which are practical for excursions outside Kyoto. Shōbunsha's
Tourist Map of Kyoto,
Nara, Osaka and Kōbe
is the best privately produced map of these cities.
Medical Services
Medical care in Japan is reasonably priced, particularly in comparison to costs in the Un-
ited States. The quality of care varies enormously, from completely competent to danger-
ously incompetent. You'll usually find the best doctors in large teaching hospitals, like
Kyoto University Hospital. Small local clinics should be avoided unless there are no other
choices.
Many hospitals and clinics will be wary of treating foreigners because they don't know
how payment will be made (most Japanese belong to the national health system). Where
necessary, show proof of your travel insurance or cash. If treatment is absolutely neces-
sary, demanding firmly but politely to be treated is the best approach.
8.30am-11am; 5min walk from Konoe-dōri bus stop, bus 206 from Kyoto Station)
is the best hospital in
Kyoto. There is an information counter near the entrance that can point you in the right
direction. Patients without appointments are seen in the morning. Go at 8.30am to reduce
your wait (they start seeing patients at 9am).
Money
The currency in Japan is the yen (¥). The Japanese pronounce yen as 'en', with no 'y'
sound. The kanji for yen is:
円
.
Yen coins come in the following denominations:
»
¥1 lightweight, silver colour
