RWC2019: Fan Guide

We’ve collated travel advice, suggested sites and social media channels to connect with ahead of the Rugby World Cup. We hope the information and advice provided below will help you on your way to preparing for the trip of a lifetime.

Scotland in Japan

Scotland play in Pool A in the Rugby World Cup facing Ireland, Samoa, Russia and the tournament hosts Japan in the group stage matches.

• Ireland v Scotland | Sun 22 Sept | International Stadium Yokohama, Kanagawa Prefecture, Yokohama City
• Scotland v Samoa | Mon 30 Sept | Kobe Misaki Stadium, Kobe City
• Scotland v Russia | Wed 9 Oct | Shizuoka Stadium Ecopa, Shizuoka Prefecture
• Japan v Scotland | Sun 13 Oct | International Stadium Yokohama, Kanagawa Prefecture, Yokohama City

With the matches spread across the length and breadth of Japan, getting to, from and between matches is an important part of your planning. Visit rugbyworldcup.com for information on each of the host cities and stadiums, tips for getting to the tournament and the official ticketing page.

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 UK travelling fans. Watch Yuriko’s videos online here and read her top tips:

• 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 tournament and don’t rely on using credit cards as you would at home
• 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

Visit

Fans can find advice and guidance on the Foreign Office Rugby World Cup Travel Advice page which will regularly be kept up to date. Travelling supporters can also sign-up for email alerts which will mean they receive essential updates straight into their inbox.

Another useful website for planning your trip and finding offers, activities, events on in Japan is the Japan National Tourism Organization website and the Visit Japan website.

Download and translate using Google Translate

You can translate text, handwriting, photos, and speech in over 100 languages with the Google Translate app – a useful companion on your trip.

For instructions on how to download the app on your Android or Apple phone or using on your computer, visit here. Get started by translating on the Google website.

Stay connected

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 on Twitter
• Foreign & Commonwealth Office Travel Aware YouTube