Any general tips on traveling to Japan?

If you have time, get a Japan Rail Pass. It'll save you a lot of money! You need to get the pass before you go to Japan (you can't get one there). Bring traveler's cheques. I am not sure about the service charges for ATM withdrawals. Bring small change (ie. 100-1000yen). You'll need them for buying snacks, drinks, etc.

in case you're thinking of only tempreture, definite, spring or fall. yet you moreover could could desire to evaluate national trip journeys and issues like that because of the fact in case you come for the period of the popular vacationer seasons, you will pay an arm and a leg for air tickets and different goodies. If I have been you, Mid April, till now Golden Week. in case you come for the period of Golden Week, site visitors and transportation will Kill you. midsection of could is sturdy additionally, suitable after golden week. in case you come on the initiating of April, you additionally can capture a number of the Cherry Blossoms blooming. additionally, it relies upon on the place you intend to bypass to, and what you desire to verify and do.

If your travels will be confined to Osaka, you should consider purchasing a one-day or two-day subway pass. I believe it is 800 yen for the one-day pass. Depending on where you go, it could save you money! If you don't buy it, don't worry. You will simply pay each time you go somewhere.

Since you are arriving on Friday, Osaka is hosting nighttime illuminations around the Nakanoshima area that you may be interested in seeing.
The official website is in Japanese:
http://www.hikari-renaissance.com/mt/access/

The two areas are near Naniwa station and Nakanoshima station.

You don't have to tip.
Train is good transportation in Osaka.
You may have to use chopstick at restaurant.