New Japan Solo

Rating:
Summary: Disappointing
Review: This book had a poor coverage for places outside the the trendy tourist spots. Having toured Japan on three occasions, I found that its suggested accommodations seem to be for non-budget travellers and its itineraries were very limited. Of all the guides on Japan, I found this the easiest to put down.

Rating:
Summary: Helpful, but I would buy Frommer's too
Review: This book was very helpful in planning where to go and what to see when I went to Japan for two weeks. It has good recommendations for walking tours and cultural attractions and mentioned many areas that were overlooked by other guide books. Maps and directions were especially helpful. However, if you are looking for recommendations on lodgings and restaurants, I would get the Frommer's Japan book. Japan Solo lists hotels and inns, but gives no information about them other than location and price range. The Frommer book is also better organized for the first-time visitor so you can make decisions about your itinerary without being overwhelmed by too many choices.