Originally Posted by gnaget

This idea that someone will approach you and help you with directions is nonsense -- at least in Tokyo. Like 0.1% of the population can string together an English sentence (after 6 years of schooling) even if they have more passive knowledge than they will admit.

The old school navigation is that each neighborhood has a map on a sign board and you used them to navigate. You also have them in train stations obviously. That's what I used when I visited in 2004, but if you go to a residential area they will not have any Romaji. At least in my neighborhood they look neglected relics with even some graffiti that was not cleaned up.

Actually, three times over three years I was approached by people in Japanese who were look for directions. I actually managed to guide them every time.

If the OP is American then join the 21st century, get a basic Android smart phone (maybe a Nexus 5) and get a $50 a month T-Mobile account that gives you unlimited global data. It will be a godsend in Tokyo and double your enjoyment.

If you rent a smart phone it will probably cost you $15-$20 a day in Japan.

Another thing, which is important for driving, and the Navi will tell you to turn there, are intersection names. At major intersections, invariably traffic lights, there is a name identifying the intersection, which is often the neighborhood. Google maps shows them but they are not in romaji. Google maps for Japan has come a long way since 2011 with a lot more romaji but not yet for the intersections. The intersections themselves are marked in romaji. The signs are rectangular, white, with blue lettering.