Photo= Quadrilingual guide map for subway station areas in response to the increasing number of foreign tourists (Kyoto Municipal Transportation Bureau, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto)

In time for the spring tourist season, Kyoto Municipal Transportation Bureau has prepared a new guide map to introduce sightseeing spots and accommodations near the city subway. In response to the increase in foreign tourists, the guide map is written in four languages, Japanese, English, Chinese and Korean.

Map Also Indicates Evacuation Sites over a Broad Area for Tourist Season

The previous map was completely redesigned as an A4-sized color guide map. A total of 31 stations on the city subway's Karasuma Line and Tozai Line were classified into 15 areas, such as "Kyoto and Kujo Stations," "Kitayama and Kitaoji Stations" and others, with abundant information for enjoying surrounding facilities and walking.

Sightseeing spots including famous temples and shrines are indicated in all four languages, with explanations of how to get there on foot from the nearest station, as well as how long it takes. There are marks designed like a cherry blossom and maple leaf on the map to show wonderful places to view cherry blossoms or maple leaves.

The map also indicates city bus stops, evacuation sites over a broad area in case of disaster, and "Wi-Fi" points, where the Internet is available via the city's public wireless LAN.

The map is being distributed at every subway station to encourage use of it.