I kept this book on me when I first moved to Japan and didn't know any of the language. It has everything you need to get around, order food, shopping, finding lodging, and asking for help. Its compact size makes it easy to carry and doesn't take up much space. It has Japanese subtitles too, so you can just point to your question and a local speaker will be able to read it. It also has some excellent background info concerning etiquette and customs. Excellent book, well worth getting if you're going to Japan.
