Thanks for the link, godwine - that website looks pretty useful.
One question about booking - I'll be making reservations while I'm in Japan, probably online, and I noticed that bookings should ideally be made 10 days before the arrival date at the hotel.
That might not always be possible, because I was planning on being flexible with regard to when and where I travel, so should I be thinking about this another way, or should I work out my accommodation and travel itinerary before I leave?
Once again, any input would be appreciated