>Hi,
>
>I have the opportunity to visit Japan (Tokyo) in October. We will be staying with a family that has invited my wife to lecture at a conference on her specialty, ventriloquism.
>
>Can anyone give me tips on proper etiquette etc for our week long visit?
>
>I would also like to know if it will be a problem taking my laptop along and what to expect to pay for meals at restaurants and any surprises a first time visitor is likey to encounter.
>
>Thanks,
>
>Ken

I have not been to Japan but I have received some advice from people who have, including a half-Japanese cousin. Perhaps someone can comment on what I think I know:

- Many Japanese live in tiny homes. They will be seriously inconvenienced if you stay with them, but may be too polite to say no. I hope that's not the case with your host.

- Noodle shops are the most cost-effective way to get good food. They cost about the same as McDonalds.