Tourist Offices

JNTO & TIC

The Japanese National Tourist Office (JNTO) has 4 main Tourist Information Centers (TIC) with English-speaking staff in central Tokyo (near Yurakucho Station), Narita Airport, Kansai International Airport, and Kyoto. These offices consult on hotels and sights, give maps and help tourists otherwise. Most guidebooks there are in European and Asian languages.

Japan Travel Phone

The JNTO's Japan Travel Phone assists in any travel issues. Just call them toll-free everyday from 9 to 5 at 0088-22-4800 from anywhere in Japan to get English-speaking advice.

Local Tourist Offices

You can try for more detailed local info at over 90 "I-centers" in about 60 cities throughout Japan especially near railroad stations. These offices have little English info though.

Maps

You can get bilingual maps at the JNTO or other tourist offices. The JNTO also has a free and very helpful Tourist Map of Japan.

Internet Cafes

Internet cafes are springing up throughout Japan especially in metropolitan areas. Tokyo has the largest concentration of Internet cafes drawn to most major train stations. Hotels, guesthouses and other accommodations are now often covered either with cables or wirelessly.