29.2 General Considerations

Departments may impose stricter budgetary controls over travel,meeting and related  expenditures than those required by this policy. The University reserves the right to apply more stringent requirements on individual travelers.

As a principle, Travel, meeting and related expenditures charged to a sponsored project, or other funding than subsidies such as gifts or grants should follow the guidelines set forth by this policy unless the funding organization, donor or grantor imposes greater restrictions or on the opposite gives more discretion.  Proper review of allowable expenses must be made by the Grants and research Collaboration or the Fundraising Office. 

The University has appointed preferred travel agencies (PTAs) [link: List of PTAs] to help minimize risks (financial loss, duty of care) and obtain good value for money spent. At the time of booking international air tickets and other overseas services, in principle, comparison should be made between PTAs and other agencies in regard to the tickets and other services.  However, when travelers buy air tickets for international travel within the price range of the University-approved price lists, it shall be regarded that the comparison has already been made for the ticket and services by the PTAs. The PTAs may impose fees depending on the services required and the method of booking, but overall, shall deliver competitive fares and values.

Travel to countries for which a travel advisory has been issued by the MOFA of Japan is not advisable. You may access the list of current advisories at the MOFA website.