Joint Conference of the
Asian Crystallographic Association &
Chinese Crystallography Society
Beijing, October 22-25, 2009
Beijing, as the capital of China, is the nation's political and cultural center and is unique in its history, tradition and character. Some 3000 years ago, a small city appeared on the present site of southwest of Beijing. From the 12th Century to 1911, it was the capital of the Jin, Yuan, Ming and Qing Dynasties. Now, after the 2008 Olympics, it has been shaped into a thoroughly modern metropolis, covering an area of 16,800 square kilometers and encompassing a population of 13 million. You will find the city an unforgettable destination, with its ancient Great Wall, the Forbidden City and numerous palaces and temples as a reminder of dynasties lost in the mists of time. Moreover, the city has refreshed its character by the growing numbers of parks and recreational centers, the folk shows during holiday celebrations, the splendid theatrical stages, and the grand city outlook.
A valid passport and a visa are required for entry into China. Visas can be obtained from your local Chinese Embassy or the nearest Consulate General. An official visa invitation letter will be sent to the participants by CICCST upon receipt of the registration form. Japanese participants staying in China for not more than 15 days do not need a visa.
The optimal season to visit Beijing is Autumn. Late October in Beijing is sunny and comfortable with a slightly cool air. The average daily temperature is about 12.8°C / 55°F, with highs of around 18°C / 64.4°F and lows of around 10°C / 50°F. It is an ideal time for tourists to enjoy the beautiful sites of Beijing.
Los Angeles -16 hours; London -8 hours; Berlin -7 hours; Paris -7 hours; Zurich -7 hours; Toronto -13 hours; Moscow -5 hours; Amsterdam -7 hours; Tokyo +1 hour; Sydney +2 hours; Melbourne +2 hours; Djakarta -1 hour.
The conference organizers do not accept any liability for personal accidents or loss or damage to the private property of any participants during the conference or indirectly arising from attending the conference. It is advisable that participants should take adequate travel and health insurances before leaving their own countries.
The electricity supply in China is 220V, 50Hz.
In China, the renminbi (RMB) is the only currency used. Money exchange centers can be found at the airport, most hotels and large shopping centers. The exchange rate now is about US $1 = 6.80 Chinese yuan. When exchanging money, please keep your receipt so that you can convert any remaining Chinese currency back to foreign currency upon leaving China. Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Diners Club and JCB are accepted in many department stores and hotels. It may be difficult to withdraw cash with credit cards.
The Bank of China and most hotels can cash travelers' checks issued by many foreign banks or financial institutions. Participants will need to show their passport and pay a 0.75 percent commission. Travelers' checks signed over to a third party cannot be cashed in China, but can be presented for collection through the Bank of China.
Transportation in Beijing is convenient, with buses, taxis, light rail, subway, etc.
Bus: The bus ride in Beijing costs about 1 yuan-3 yuan depending on distance. Most city buses run from 5:30am - 22:00pm.
Taxi: Taxis are everywhere in the city and is the most convenient way to get around. Taxis charge 2.0 yuan per kilometer for the first 15 km, and then 2.4 yuan for every additional kilometer. Toll fees are an extra. It costs around US$16 to travel from the airport to Jingyi Hotel and about US$ 18 to downtown Beijing.
Light rail/Subway: The full fare is 2 yuan.
You are advised to reconfirm you departing flight (both international and domestic) 72 hours in advance, especially if you are flying with Chinese airlines. Please note that these offices are not usually open on weekends.