First things first: Yelp and TripAdvisor don’t really work in Japan. Tabelog is what the locals use, so download the app before you land. Fair warning — the Japanese are tough critics. Typical scores run 3.0–3.4, anything over 3.5 is very good, and anything over 4.0 is considered excellent. Rule of thumb: don’t go anywhere under 3.0.
Reservations matter here. The best restaurants and bars book up fast, so lock some in before your trip — either through Tabelog or a concierge service (your hotel’s, or your premium credit card’s if you have one). That said, don’t be afraid to walk into a random izakaya, whether stone-cold sober or a few drinks deep. That’s how you find an amazing late-night ramen or udon spot.
One thing you won’t see coming: Japan is in the middle of a major Neapolitan pizza revolution, with a number of places ranked world class. I know you didn’t come to Japan for pizza — but if you hit a point where you’re feeling a little over Japanese food, pop into one. It’s worth it.
Getting around is easy. Japan is Uber-friendly — use it over cabs given the language barrier. Between cities, take the bullet train: it’s fast, and you get to see the countryside roll by. Google Translate is your friend too — hold your camera up to a menu or sign and it will translate live for you.
Lastly, the Japanese tend to be traditional and conservative, so be respectful of their values. Have some beer, have some sake, and enjoy all of great Japanese culture.