File :-(, x, )
Anonymous
I'm considering going to japan this summer, but a doubt hit me. Are there bilingual indications, or am I going to have to hire some guide? How do I know where to take buses or trains if I can't read japanese?
>> Anonymous
For one part, most personel in train stations are able to understand enough English to give basic directions and information on timetables.

Also, at least in the big cities and the JR lines there should be english announcements for the train stations.

Knowing some basic japanese always comes in handy, that's for sure. But you can manage to get along without it.
>> Anonymous
>>JR lines
>>english announcements for the train stations
not in JR West you don't
>> Anonymous
>>30205

But even then it's not that hard to make out the announcements in Japanese. Really.
>> Anonymous
>>30206
you're right of course, its just that you might miss it sometimes.
>> Anonymous
>>30195

Make a cheat-sheet before you go. Compile a single page with the kanji for the names of every place you're planning to visit.

If you have that, you can get anywhere if you keep your wits about you.
>> Anonymous
Most if not all JR line has English on their signs also. JR West does have English names also, even when your on the ultra local lines.
Example: JR Kobe line near Osaka has English on all railroad signs and even does English announcements over the intercoms at stations (not on train). Even the Ako line (which is between Osaka and Hiroshima, which is single rail, ultra local line has English namings.

Don't worry about it too much. If all else fails, you can get English maps/guides at the local city tourism offices
>> Anonymous
Learn some basic spoken Japanese. It's pretty damned easy, plus acts as a nice reserve if lost.
>> Anonymous
So far JR has been a pain for me when trying to read the maps, seems like every other company puts the station names in Romaji or atleast Furigana.
>> ^___^ !ugqTupeLx.
How much were plane tickets? I wish to go next summer and am currently planning (I live in the USA). Thing is I'm a student and I'm poor, and wish to spend as little money on the flight as possible so I can do more in japan. Any suggestions on how to get cheap flights?