So, I want to visit Japan at some point

Essentially for an extended period of time, although I don't really have much of a desire to permanently live there. At least, not currently. However, I haven't the slightest idea on how the process of going from the US to Japan would be, aside from booking a plane to Tokyo or Osaka. I'd probably prefer visiting Tokyo, as it's large, and has a lot of everything that makes up Japan all in one area. Not to mention the people there are probably all used to American visitors. Though in that regard I might want to go to Osaka, where it probably isn't as frequent, and I might get a bit less of a complete disregard from people as just a tourist. In any case, if anyone would be kind enough to lend some info regarding things like where to go, what places would be best to stay and how to do so, or ways I can meet people in Japan online and perhaps get to know some who are interested in similar things as myself, that'd be great. Side note, I'm currently in the process of learning Japanese, though am not fluent yet. This has been a dream of mine for a while, so any help would be greatly appreciated. Domo arigatou gozaimasu.

Go to Kyoto or Nagasaki. Tokyo is overrated. Oh and keep in mind that the Japanese don't have civil rights like we do in the US, so businesses are allowed to deny you service, whether at restaurants or hotels.

Tokyo is not everything about Japan, but it is worth visiting if you can only visit Japan once, and want to see the modern stuff(fashion, anime, music, etc). Kyoto is where most of the older cultural stuff is at, because it was the previous capital of Japan and has more of the old traditional culture sights unlike Tokyo which is pretty much all modern city with few temples/shrines. Also, darkhorse is right, and there are some shops that will say things like, "no foreigners allowed", usually because foreigners tend to be obnoxious, can't read signs, or touch/break fragile or valuable merchandise. I would recommend studying at least a little bit of the language to make the trip worthwhile, or you'll likely experience culture shock or get lost. Most importantly, learn about the manners. There's a bunch of small things like sticking your chopsticks in rice that can deeply offend/mortify people. Personally I recommend also visiting Okinawa, but that may be a bias since I'm from there. It's definitely not a lie when I say it's unique from the rest of Japan, though. It was once its' own country and culture separate from Japan, so the old culture has a lot of differences from Mainland prefectures' cultures(which are ALL diverse somewhat). It's like comparing mainland USA and Hawaii. Okinawa is tropical or subtropical and there are things like certain food you cannot find outside of Okinawa ever. For vacations, I would think it's the same as booking a vacation to any other country. Looking for flight info, hotels, planning transportation(in Tokyo you will use public transportation, get a hotel near a train station). I can't give much info for travel process since I always just followed mom back and forth between there and USA.

I, too, am planning a Japan trip. However, I would advise you know basic Japanese before going as, unless travelling with someone that knows Japanese, it could prevent you from doing some basic things like tours. I know most of the tours do not have anyone that speaks English so you would be so lost. Also, there are indeed places that refuse service to foreigners and sometimes the places have stated they do so because foreigners are typically idiots, obnoxious, can't speak Japanese and often require that someone in the establishment speak in English for them. If you are not these things and can be respectful, polite, and even speak Japanese to them most owners of places like this do not mind serving you. I myself and planning on a month trip, visiting Kyoto, Odaiba, Tokyo, Hokkaido, Osaka, Okinawa, and a few other places. I am learning Japanese and know enough right now to get by, but I aim to pass the proficiency exams (3,4,5) as I eventually want to study abroad. There is such a fantastic history and rich culture in Japan, to visit and not get the full experience by the Language barrier holding you back is such a sad thing. Ah, Kohagura, would you happen to know of any decent traditional inns around the area? While I visit, I think it would be a waste to stay in places like the Hilton xD

@ThePalmTopTiger Ah, I have never actually been to any traditional inns, as we just stay with my mom's parents in their home. We did all once go to the north end of Okinawa(they live in the south in Naha), and we stayed one night at a hotel/motel/inn there, but I don't know if that counts. XD I don't think it was traditional, but it did have one area of the room that was elevated with tatami mats, and sleeping yukata in the room you could wear. I can't remember the name of it. >.< It was when we went to go hiking on some kind of nature trail to see the north-most point of the island.

@ThePalmTopTiger And @ThisIsSilly Yes language barrier is a big issue there. I just got back from a trip to Osaka and Kyoto and had a good bit of issues since i only know a few small Japanese words. However i made it work using hotel staff which spoke English pretty well, Google Map and my GPS saved my life. Most of the time body language and pointing can get you by. The subway systems can be confusing there and in Kyoto the train and bus stations are very confusing. I mainly walked everywhere in Kyoto. Also keep in mind certain over the counter meds and prescriptions are illegal there. Be sure to check that out before going. I found it better in Kyoto language wise than Osaka, more people there spoke English prolly mainly due to the fact of many tourist.Lastly Japanese people are very nice and helpful however they often seem a bit cold and unwilling to really get to know you. Hope this help have a wonderful trip. If your curious about what you'll see in Osaka and Kyoto feel free to view my profile i posted a few pictures from my trip.