IIJIMA Hiromitsu <delmonta@ht.sakura.ne.jp> wrote in message news:<412495BF.B4AE6B71@ht.sakura.ne.jp>...
> Hi andy,
> 
> I'm adding fj.life.in-japan, where there are many English-speakers living
> in Japan, in the Newsgroups: listing.
> 
> >  - I'm flying into/from Tokyo-Narita
>  ...
> >  - My only compulsory destination is Kyoto where I have to spend a few
> >    (2 to 4) days anyway
>  ...
> >  - I definitely don't want a car, also given the world-famous Japanese
> >    rail services
> 
> Be sure to order a Japan Rail Pass, if you satisfy the requirement for it.
> http://www.japanrailpass.net.

probably not a money saver if he's only going to ride the train from
narita <-> tokyo <-> kyoto

> >  - Someone told me about "ryokans" (sp?) and if I understand correctly
> >    what they are all about, I'd love to stay there. Any suggestions?
> 
> Ryokan is Japanese-styled inns, with tatami, yukata, and Japanese foods.
> You can, of course, order sushi at ryokan.

I recommend staying as long as you an in a Ryokan. They're the epitome
of Japanase style.