First don't let the the 'foreigness' of Japan stop you from visiting.  
 Exhange money easily at any "ginko" or bank. 

The best way to eat and or shop is to get away from the mainstream places and go down the alleys to little 'mom & pop' resturants.  Here you will get great food for a fraction of the price.  All resturants have plastic versions of the menu, so all you have to do it point!  Water is safe to drink.  There are no real health risks to speak of. 
Ask how to find the 'recycle' shops.  Here is where you can find everything especially true antiques at bargain basement prices.  Shrines sales are great too!
Local fish markets first thing in the morning are a great way to eat and shop at too.

Most toilets are not 'western' style, but squat style.  Japanese believe this to be more sanitary.  Bring toilet paper.  Also be aware in at least one McDonalds I went to, the bathrooms were unisex.

Japan is very safe to travel in.  A lot crime is commited either by drunks or foreigners.  But be aware on the crowded commuter trains, women are frequently touched and grabbed by men.  Stand your ground and let them know you won't tolerate it!  Japanese women will find your small children and infants extremely fascinating.  They may even just pick them up.  But don't fear, they are just loving on them!  The people tend to be very honest also.  Once a gentlemen on my tour (I was a tour guide for our local area) left his wallet on a counter at a large department store.  The clerk actually ran down the block to give it back to him intact.

Be patient and polite and you'll get the same in return!  Grunting and pointing and charades (done politely of course!) work very well.  If looking for someone who may speak english, look to college or high school age Japanese if possible.  They are taught english in schools and remember is better.  Just be aware it's not conversational english, so be patient.  They love to practice their english when given the chance.

Traveling in Japan:  In Tokyo, take the trains.  Just try to avoid commute times!  They are easy to navigate, cheap and the best way to get around the city.  Taxis are expensive and scary!  If going outside the big cities, you'll want to rent a car.  Japan drives on the left so just remember to keep the steering wheel closest to the center of the road!  Women:  I traveled quite extensively alone and felt very safe at all times.

Staying in Japan, unless you have friends/relatives to stay with, is expensive.  This will probably be your biggest expense.  Ryokans (bed & breakfast type places) are expensive, but a wonderful experience!

Japan is much more than crowded streets (actually it's not that bad even in Tokyo in most places) and temples.  The politeness and eagerness of the Japanese people to help you and just enjoy your company is the best I've come across!  Most of the country is like visiting a picture book from National Geographic.  Especially in the northern prefectures were things are still done the same ways they've been done for hundreds of years.  It's like stepping back in time!  The entire country is gorgeous no matter the time of year.  I've never been to a country more hospitable and interesting and beautiful.  You don't need to speak/read Japanese to get around either.  Just be adventurous and polite and you'll have an experience of a lifetime!   There are too many things to see and do!  Shrines and festivals are plenty.  But each area has it's highlights.  I know more about the Aomori prefecture area of northern Japan  which I highly recommend if you want to see the 'real' Japan.

I lived in Japan for 4 years in the Aomori prefecture.  Was a local area tour guide and love to answer any questions you may have on visiting Japan.

Happy Trails!

Patty Barnes

pbarnes@usa.com