Kyoto, Japan
 

Hi from the France forum!
One of my daughters will be doing a semester in Kyoto Uni in 2012.
Her sister and I have decided it's a pretext of a life-time to visit Japan while she's there.
We've all got UK and French Passports, and ASAIK we the family don't need to apply for visas just for a holiday. And AFAIK we don't need any particular vaccinations.
Can any one confirm this?
Also, is the concept of short-term flat-sharing common in Japan? DD's been been in flat-shares for years (in France and Germany), but Japan is an unknown factor.
TIA for any info, both on student life in Kyoto and for visiting family!:)

Re: Kyoto, Japan
 

No need for visas for entry to Japan on UK passports, and would assume French also. Think you'll get a 30-day visa, but worth checking on the Japanese Embassy website.

No need for vaccinations--Japan is clean and extremely civilised! Kyoto's a great city; many Japanese cities are totally devoid of town planning so they tend to have industry / commerce / living all mixed together, but Kyoto's kept its character. I'm sure your daughter will enjoy and be enriched by the experience.

Ganbatte! (roughly translated as Go for it!):D

Re: Kyoto, Japan
 

British and French citizens qualify for visa on arrival.

http://www.uk.emb-japan.go.jp/en/visa/visa-exempt.html

As for flat share, it is less common here, but there are a few places that specialize in renting rooms in a house. Sakura House, which appears to have a place in Tokyo, is one of the best known.

You can also check the Gaijinpot web site, which is packed with news for foreign residents of Japan.

Re: Kyoto, Japan
 

I've just been away for a few days and found your replies today.
Arigato for the info!