[Shanita]

Learn some basic Japanese. Go to the library and borrow that 10 years old Berliz cassette and learn how to pronounce a proper konnichiwa, arigato and sumimasen. Remember that if you need to ask advice from a stranger, it's great to start with sumimasen, "excuse me".
Consider getting JAPAN RAILPASS if you intend to use JR lines much.
Learn how to use hashi, chopsticks.
Familiarize yourself with the current value of JPY. Usually it's better to exchange the money in your own country. It's good to have a spare money at all times.
We recommend getting a good guidebook to Japan and checking a map about the areas where you are going to visit.
Get some Japanese friends before your trip. Trust me, you will enjoy much more. If you are lucky, you might even get invitation to stay overnight their house.
In case you will be driving a car in Japan get yourself international driver's licence. Remember that in Japan people drive left. And also remember that driving a car isn't necessarely the fastest option in big cities.
Check out and print our Japan Fact sheet and our Maps.
Remember that you are allowed to stay only three months in Japan as a tourist. Make sure your passport is valid. If you need longer time than that - apply for a visa before.
If you plan to buy some DVD players or AV equipment in Japan remember that in Japan they use 110V currency and NTSC video signal. DVD's are region 2. Also remember to care about customs or you get yourself a trouble.
Emergency numbers in Japan are 110 POLICE and 119 FIRE/AMBULANCE everywhere in Japan. Its good to write them down. You can call toll-free to these numbers from public telephones by pressing the red button and dialing the number. Police boxes are around everywhere. These koban, are handy not only in serious emergency, but smaller one too - if you are lost for example.

"Best Regards
Shanita
http://www.tokyo-forum.com"