Message from Local and Regional Organizing Committee
 
On behalf of the Local and Regional Organizing Committees of the 12th International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine, I would like to welcome all of you to this premiere International Meeting in Magnetic Resonance in Medicine, which will be held from May 15 to 21, 2004, at the Kyoto International Conference Hall in Kyoto, Japan.  The ISMRM Annual Meeting will take place for the first time in an Asian country in 2004.  It is indeed my great pleasure to welcome all the scientists, radiologists, and technologists from all over the world to Kyoto to attend the 12th ISMRM>  I would like to express my sincere appreciation to all of you for your interest and support of this meeting.

The 12th ISMRM will highlight the most recent advances in Magnetic Resonance in Medicine and place emphasis on recently developing imaging techniques and diagnosis.  The objectives of ISMRM will be not only to share medical knowledge and expereince in Magnetic Resonance in Medicine, but also to develop closer ties among researchers and clinicians from various countries.

Since we host this meeting in Asia, we would like to organize several programs which are unique in Asia.  Special seminars and presentations will be planned in addition to the usual scientific program for participants from Japan as well as from Asia.  There will be two social events with a Japanese flavor to promote friendship and fellowship among participants and acquaint them with traditional Japanese culture.  They include the opening reception and the gala party.

Kyoto is an ancient capital of Japan and has a lot to offer in regard to traditional Japanese culture, rich historical heritage, and beautiful scenery with many interesting sightseeing spots.

I do hope you will enjoy not only the scientific part of the meeting, but also the beautiful scenery of Kyoto and the history of Japan.

Mutsumasa Takahashi, M.D.
Chair, Local and Regional Organizing Committee