It seems like everyone has said what I already was going to say - the only way I know of to get a phone to work in Japan is if it's a smartphone that can handle internet (e.g. any 3G smartphone or droid phone in the US, such as a blackberry, iPhone, or other phones that have internet browsers and email, NOT phones that can simply handle internet, such as the LG enV, the phone you were asking to steal from me. XD;) The important part, as far as I know, is the simcard, but from what I've heard, it's far easier to get a simcard that will work in Europe than in Asia, and roaming charges are really intense. You already know what I think of the majority of your dad's plans and restrictions, but in this case, especially since you never make calls and email would be free in Japan with the plan I'm attempting to go with, just getting a phone in Japan would probably actually be cheaper than you trying to get a 3G phone AND a new simcard AND dealing with roaming fees.

As for maps, we're going to school in an office building, so it's going to be my bet that it's pretty darn easy to navigate. Not to mention that we have a long orientation when we get there, during which I'm sure there will be plenty of time to ask questions about finding your way around. Take a breather, child, you need to remain calm. I promise we'll be all right. ♥