Book excerpt: You'll never fall into the tourist traps when you travel with Frommer's. It's like having a friend show you around, taking you to the places locals like best. Our expert authors have already gone everywhere you might go--they've done the legwork for you, and they're not afraid to tell it like it is, saving you time and money. No other series offers candid reviews of so many hotels and restaurants in all price ranges. Every Frommer's Travel Guide is up-to-date, with exact prices for everything, dozens of color maps, and exciting coverage of sports, shopping, and nightlife. You'd be lost without us! Japan can be a bewildering destination, but Frommer's helps you travel like a pro, with practical tips on getting around, communicating, conducting business, and navigating the local etiquette and customs. We've included precise directions to every establishment, and dozens of accurate maps. You'll also rely on our handy appendix of useful phrases and our Japanese character key, which allows you to easily recognize establishment names when you see signs on the street. In case you're worried about Japan's high prices, Frommer's brings you dozens of listings for affordable accommodations and restaurants. Look for candid reviews of the best accommodations, from plush, high-tech business hotels to moderately priced bargains and authentic ryokan. Meticulously researched, Frommer's Japan is the only guide you'll need to experience the best of this exotic land. With Frommer's in hand, you'll see it all, from the swirl of Tokyo's nightlife to the traditional Japanese flavor of Kyoto. Whether you want to visit majestic shrines and temples or explore the serene landscapes of the Japan Alps, it's all here in one insightful, user-friendly guide.