Don't worry! Everything will be fine, and if you make a mistake in etiquette all will soon be forgiven. JUST DO IT! Go to the Hiroshima for the Peace Festival on August 6th at 8 a.m. Buy a Lonely Planet guide. Bring your international drivers license. Don't let your celebrity or visitor status go to your head. Praise or compliments (even dumb and obvious) are just attempts to start conversation. It may seem like old hat to you, but you and your experience are a point of interest for most people you meet. If you want to learn Japanese, speak it from the beginning and ignore the chuckles. Don't expect honest answers or comments for a long time from Japanese. Have as much fun as possible!!!
