Before traveling anywhere, particularly to a foreign country, one should gather reference materials for aiding in vacation planning.
Over the past ten years, I've accumulated many reference books, travel guides, brochures, maps and pamphlets on Japan. These have been great sources of information on attractions, transportation, lodging and dining. Each time I go, I obtain updated material on places I've already been to (for return visits) as well as on new places to see and do. These also will tell the vacationer the dos and don't when visiting a foreign country. This will help in avoiding making any custom or etiquette faux pas.
These have also been helpful to me when I was putting together The Monster Movie Fan's Guide To Japan.
Above, the travel section of the Little Tokyo's Kinokuniya Bookstores.The Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) has been a great source for travel guides, maps, brochures and other materials on places to see. The best part about JNTO, they provide these at no charge!
Also, I have made good use of my hotel's brochure racks in gathering more reference material during past visits to Japan. I got the map at right at the hotel brochure rack.
I have also made good use of the travel sections of major (and not-so-major) bookstores for travel guides including Borders Books, Barnes and Noble and B. Dalton. I am lucky to live in Los Angeles where Japanese bookstores, such as Kinokuniya Bookstores, are available for Japan travel books.
One mustn't forget to tap into a local travel agent who can also provide reference materials on Japan.
Plus, if you are a member of the Auto Club (AAA), their travel service desk can provide more reference material!
Remember, before heading off to Japan or any other foreign country, do yourself a favor and get your reference material and do some research!
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