Dear Colleagues & Friends:

It is our great pleasure to extend this invitation to the 18th Visual Field Symposium of the International Perimetric Society (IPS 2008) to be held on May 21-24, 2008, in Nara City, Japan.

To date, the IPS symposium has been held twice in Japan: the 3rd IPS in 1978, hosted by Professor Harutake Matsuo, was held in Tokyo, while the 10th IPS in 1992, hosted by Professor Yoshiaki Kitazawa, was held in Kyoto. During the past 30 years, we have been witness to the remarkable development of perimetric and imaging technology. However, as we all strive to improve patient's Quality of Vision, we are never satisfied with our present achievements and always continue to pursue the technological potential of this field. I am confident, therefore, that the upcoming symposium will enable us to enhance our professional expertise through the sharing of our knowledge and skills.

Our host city, Nara, was Japan's first capital and remains a beautiful and ancient city dotted with numerous temples and shrines of great historical significance. Most of these are located within the extensive grounds of Nara Park. The city is symbolized by the delightful presence of more than one thousand deer, regarded as messengers of the gods, who roam freely in the park. Located in the center of Nara Park is Nara Prefectural New Public Hall, the venue of IPS 2008. The symposium will take place in a traditional Noh Theatre that serves as a multipurpose facility within the public hall.

We encourage you to take full advantage of this opportunity to meet and develop relationships with the finest professionals in the field amid the unique atmosphere of IPS 2008. At the same time, we invite you to enjoy the renowned attractions of the beautiful city, Nara.

Nara City and I welcome you to Japan in 2008!

Chota Matsumoto, M.D.