Yup, we called it 'Surpise Food' . I actually had one of the most delicious dishes ever and didn't know what it was , but i want to find out what it is when i head back over.

Yeah Tokyo would be English friendly, although it still doesn't really mean that locals will speak English (a few may do, but not alot) but it's more friendly in the way that there is more signs with English on them, food menu sometimes might have English and it's also a bit easier to get around Transport wise. Also the hostels etc are usually run by English speaking Japanese people so you can always ask for advice or directions to certain areas.
That said, every Hostel in every area we stayed in the staff spoke English as well.

Ditto, i completely agree with you too (about establishing connections). In Kyoto i met with two Japanese people in one of the local bars, they spoke English as well as the Barman. We were chatting etc and when they found out we were Irish they were enthusiastic about increasing the consumption of alcohol and we all had good fun drinking and chatting and didn't leave until 6am the next morning (along with the Barman, who was also drunk) GOOD TIMES! We still keep in contact with them and would be nice to vist back to that bar

Anyway, you will have a blast when you get there. Id try plan as much as you can beforehand but it doesn't harm to have one of those 'spur of the moment' times where you randomly decide to go somewhere or do somthing. If you have any more questions feel free to ask on the forum. I still might not be knowledgable about Japan in the long term but in regards costs, transport, accomodation when travelling etc i might be able to help in that way