Travel and visa
There are two airports with easy access to Tokyo and its environs: Haneda and Narita airports. Though Haneda Airport is closer to the conference venue, Narita is an equally good choice for travellers.
Travel from Haneda to Musashisakai Station:
The Haneda Limousine Bus picks up in front of the terminal and drops passengers off near Kichijoji Station (1,500 JPY). To purchase your ticket, head to the bus ticket counter in the terminal; they will direct you on where to wait for your bus. Once you arrive in Kichijoji, take the Chuo Line to Musashisakai Station. For the return trip, reservations are not needed, and cash is preferred. Check their website for up-to-date timetables.
Travel from Narita to Musashisakai Station:
The Narita Express is a great option for those staying near the city centre, as it has stops at both Shinjuku (3,250 JPY) and Tokyo (3,070 JPY) Station. You will have to purchase a (timed and reserved seat) ticket from the counter, located on floor B1 of the arrival terminals. Whether you get off at Tokyo Station or Shinjuku Station, you’ll take the Chuo Line to Musashisakai Station. For the return trip, you must make a reservation in advance. This can be easily done at any JR Ticket Office, such as the one at Mitaka Station.
The public transportation system in Tokyo is unparalleled in its ease of use and efficiency. The best way to get around is to either purchase a Suica Card at the nearest train station or download the Suica or Passmo app (depending on your carrier and location, these may not be available until you reach Japan). With this, you will be one tap away from trekking across the city.
Signs in train stations and on trains are very clear and often in both Japanese and English. Google Maps works very well in Japan for train stations: directions often show the best train car to take to reach the exact exit you need at your final station. However, it does not always accurately show where bus stops are or their arrival time. When taking a bus, just ask a local if you are not sure – we are very friendly.
The Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs has detailed explanations and instructions on how to apply for a VISA. For information on visa exemption (short-term stay) for entry into Japan, please refer to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan website.
If you require VISA assistance, please contact the LOC: iaus409-loc@ml.nao.ac.jp
Each participant will obtain their VISA at the Japanese embassy or consulate in their respective country. It takes approximately one to several weeks for this process to complete, depending on the country of origin. Participants from China should note that it may take more than a month to process their VISA. Early registration and completion of the payment are strongly encouraged.
The deadline for requesting VISA assistance from the LOC is 15 August 2026.
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