WORLD BROOMBALL CHAMPIONSHIPS 2014
TOMAKOMAI, JAPAN
In answer to recent requests on the 2014 IFBA World Broomball Championships in Tomakomai, Japan the following information is offered and sourced from a document tabled at the Governors meeting held recently in Ottawa during the 2012 IFBA World Championships.1. Is it safe to or to or visit Japan?Japan suffered a devastating earthquake and tsunami in March 2011 which also affected the nuclear power plant in one small area of Japan. The destination city of Tomakomai was not adversely affected by the disaster and is perfectly safe to visit and travel to.2. Is it expensive to go to Japan?Flight costs to Japan may be slightly higher than between Nth America and Europe, but often there are good flight deals available from major cities, especially during the non peak season. The nearest airport to Tomakomai is “New Chitose International Airport” (CTS) which is a 35 minute drive from Tomakomai. Currently there are no direct flights to this airport from any European, Nth American or Australian cities. Most international flights all route via Tokyo.3. Is food expensive in Japan and where can I eat?Food costs are very reasonable in Tomakomi except for certain products and high end restaurants. Supermarkets have almost every kind of food you will find at home. The price you see on the menu or displayed on products is the final price you pay with no extra tax applied afterwards. There is no custom of tipping at restaurants in Japan.4. Is accommodation expensive in Japan?Accommodation costs will be comparable to that paid at the 2012 Worlds in Ottawa.5. How about renting a vehicle and driving in Japan?Rental vehicles will be readily available from a local sponsor and competitively priced. Gas/petrol prices are relatively high in Japan, though the distance travelled from your hotel to the arenas are quite short. A reminder for Nth Americans and mainland Europeans that driving is on the left side of the road as in Australia. The city of Tomakomai fortunately follows a grid pattern and is a very easy city to navigate. Nth American and Australian drivers only require their home drivers licence plus an international driving permit. There may be different requirements for European drivers.6. What is the language barrier? How can we communicate with the host committee?Communication will be one of the main challenges of the event. There is an intention to have English speaking volunteers and official translators made available. For those who do not speak English as a first language it will be helpful to have either a Japanese or English speaking representative. The Host committee will be making a strong effort to overcome the language differences.Note also that for matters relating to the tournament the first port of call will be to the IFBA and not directly to the host committee. 7. Keeping in touch with Family and Friends. You can bring your own laptop although you will need the correct adaptor plug. WiFi is offered at most hotels. It is also possible to rent a cell/mobile phone while in Japan but overseas calls are likely to be expensive via this means.8. When is the tournament to take place?The dates are November 3rd – 7th, 2014 
9. What travel documents are required?At time of writing this the information from our hosts indicate that no special visa is required, just a current up to date passport which is not close to expiring. This detail can change and may be governments from your own country who alter the requirements needed to travel overseas. A quick check and enquiry will eliminate any issues that may arise if details do change before you travel to Tomakomai.10. Do I need Travel and or Health Insurance?Travel and health insurance is recommended. High quality health care is available in Japan and most doctors speak english.11. What kind of city is Tomakomai?Tomakomai has a population of around 174,000 and is an important city in the region of Hokkaido. It is a ‘double’ port city with the largest sea port in northern Japan and the international airport is just 30 kms. away. Tomakomai is a thriving city with paper and automobile parts manufacturing as it’s main industries. Tomakomai is also known as the ice hockey capitol of Japan.12. What activities and attractions are there?Tomakomai and it’s surrounding area, include the major city of Sapporo has much to offer the visitor. The host plans to offer or provide extensive tourist information as the IFBA World Broomball tournament draws closer.13. How is the weather in Tomakomai?Tomakomai is located on a similar latitude as Toronto, Minneapolis and Milan and has similar cool weather in November.