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RWC fan guide to Japan

RWC fan guide to Japan

The 2019 Rugby World Cup is just around the corner and we want to ensure all Wales fans who are travelling to Japan are as prepared as they can be! 

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We have pulled together advice on the host cities and fan zones as well as some cultural dos and don’ts to help supporters enjoy their Japanese adventure.

Wales’ RWC fixtures:

Wales v Georgia (Toyota City) – Monday September 23 (19.15 Japan time)
Wales v Australia (Tokyo) – Sunday September 29 (16.45 Japan time)
Wales v Fiji (Oita) – Wednesday October 9 (18.45 Japan time)
Wales v Uruguay (Kumamoto) – Sunday October 13 (17.15 Japan time)

City by City tourism guides:

A city by city tourism has been put together to showcase what you see and do in and around all Wales’ pool matches. That detailed guide and insight can be found at Visit Japan 2019.

Fanzones:

Tournament organisers have also announced the details of the official fanzones across host cities in Japan, which you can find here.

Japanese comedian’s top tips for travelling fans

UK-based Japanese comedian Yuriko Kotani has teamed up with the Foreign & Commonwealth Office to produce some special advice for fans travelling to the Rugby World Cup in Japan this autumn.

Yuriko’s humorous tips are designed to help British supporters heading to the RWC.

In a series of short videos the comedian uses her knowledge of both cultures to provide answers to some vital questions like: ‘do people sing and dance in public in Japan?’; ‘can I use my credit card?’; and should rugby fans ‘hug, bow or shake hands?’

Here are Yuriko’s six top tips to help British rugby fans stay out of trouble in Japan:

· Japanese people are very friendly and welcoming but can be reserved. Loud, boisterous behaviour in public is not the norm, and is likely to cause alarm or offence.
· Japan is a cash society, so ensure you carry plenty with you when out and about at the tournament.
· Tattoos have an historical association with organised crime in Japan. Visitors with a tattoo may be refused entry to hot springs, gyms or swimming pools.
· The use or possession of some common prescription and over-the-counter medicines are banned under Japan’s strictly enforced anti-stimulant drugs law. Check with your local Japanese Embassy or Consulate before you travel.
· There is a zero tolerance policy towards all drugs in Japan. Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs can result in long jail sentences and heavy fines.
· Bowing is the common way for Japanese people to greet each other and show respect. Public displays of affection are not common, and are better avoided.

Fans can find further advice and guidance on the Foreign Office Rugby World Cup Travel Advice page.

Travelling supporters can also sign-up for email alerts which will mean they receive essential updates straight into their inbox.

We recommend connecting with some social media accounts in preparation for your visit, allowing you to keep up to date with travel advice.

British Embassy Tokyo Twitter
British Embassy Tokyo Facebook
Rugby World Cup Twitter
Foreign & Commonwealth Office Travel Aware YouTube

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