[jasonbvr]

I wouldn't do the ryokans on a regular basis. That is going to get expensive. And if you stay in just about any hostel in Japan they are going to have a computer with internet access to use for a reasonable price so that takes care of the laptop question.

The railpass thingy, you will purchase a voucher when you are overseas. Once in Japan you are going to take the voucher to one of the offices in like Tokyo or where ever and they will give you the pass there. So the pass will not be activated until you turn in the voucher which if you notify them when you will be using the voucher should be valid up till then.

I may or may not be here in August, but if I am will be doing a bit of sightseeing myself so be sure to drop me a line. Ganbattene!