A really good writer uses his internal thesaurus and I certainly don’t mind looking up a term, especially when it’s so easy on the net now. (wikipedia or google “define:word” – no quotes) When reading Neal Stephenson’s work I learned Nippon/Nipponese. Now with your post I have learned Yamato. Very neat and, given its denotation, used in exactly the right way. As you know, sometimes a synonym has something in its connotation or denotation that shows how the writer doesn’t really know what he’s doing. Not the case here.

Some more tidbits:
1. What do they do during the 7th inning stretch out here? If it’s unique enough, video it with your new camera. Shoot, even if it’s “take me out to the ballgame” or the same tune with different lyrics, it might be worth recording at least once. Definitely worth recording if each town has their own traditions.

2. What kinds of crazy foods do they serve at the concession stands? If it’s something nutty like squid on a stick – be sure to photograph it!

3. Just how rowdy do the fans get during games? An interesting experiment in stereotypes. On the one hand you could say they’d be uber-polite. On the other, perhaps they go as nuts as on game shows.

4. How different is it to fly internationally on a Japanese carrier compared to a domestic carrier? It’s supposed to be very pampered, but I don’t know if that’s only first class. Also, the stewardesses are reputedly hotter. Comment on either. Also, if there’s anything special – different signage, interesting uniforms – be sure to take photos. Also, check out their evacuation guide thing – different? Is the beginning part part where they explain about the oxygen masks different? Worth videoing?

5. Do cities outside Tokyo get crazy during game releases? If there’s an absurdly long line, photo! If you have the courage, ask the kids if they’re waiting for pokemon and video their jubilant answer.

6. How rock and roll do the Japanese get? Def worth hearing about.

7. Is the fashion at Harajuku as crazy as everyone says it is? Probably. I’d say photos, but at this point it’s pretty obvious, right? But actually, it’s so photographed, this is one place I won’t be disappointing if you come away without a photo. One good thing to know – it’s supposed to be like a cosplay thing – no big deal to ask someone to take their photo.

8. Sumo. Great sport or greatest sport? I’m so jealous!

10. How much cool stuff can I find in a used game store? How much will run on your US equipment?

12. How long can Dave and I sing in a karaoke box before we’re kicked out to salvage what’s left of the clientele’s hearing? Maybe you’ll be “gods” like in Rush Hour. q;o)

13. Do I have the nerve to go to a public bath? Obviously no photos there, but I’d definitely be interested to know about the real thing after having seen it in Ranma and Love Hina.

14. Is the Japanese train system as punctual and efficient as advertised? I heard they literally push/pack people like tuna during rush hour

15. What’s the strangest item I can find in a vending machine? Take photos!!

I can’t wait! I will live vicariously through your travelogue.