Here are some impressions and lessons learned from our trip to Japan in 2007:

1. The Japanese are indeed a very polite, friendly, and service-oriented people.


2. Despite what the guide books might indicate, very reasonably priced accomodations and food are abundantly available all over Japan, even in the big cities.


3. Japan is a smoking society.  Unlike the U.S., where smoking is banned in many public areas, smoking is still permitted all over in Japan.


4. The trains and subways in Japan are almost always on time, and are a great way to travel.


5. Mitch loves the Shinkansen!


6. Mitch just can't quite warm up to Japanese toilets, Western toilets without toilet paper, and any kind of toilet without soap.


7. Mitch did warm up to the Western toilets that had heated seats and backside washers!


8. Many young Japanese couples (and even some not so young Japanese couples!) freely hold hands and perform other public displays of affection.


9. Barley pillows are very uncomfortable!


10. Cell phones are everywhere, but the individuals using the cell phones aren't talking on them -- rather, they're either emailing, text messaging, or playing games on them.


11. Several unexpected expenses that occurred during the trip included:
    
    
    • Internet access
    
    
    • Cell phone
    
    
    • Taxis