[kanzuki]

You should check out the dates of matsuris/summer festivals if you're going around those time, it would be great to attend =)

Don't worry too much about the train routes, you can always ask for a map from the train station master. Of course it wouldn't hurt to know a bit as well.

A dictionary would really come in handy as well. If the words won't come out, just point. Add in with a little body language and you'll most likely get your answer =)