Portable electronic translator

[marco75]

I'm planning to go to Japan for about 2 weeks in August.
It will be my first time.
My destinations are Kyoto, Osaka and possibly Nikko. (I didn't want to overreach myself trying to get to too many places, and spend too much time on the train)
===
Now, I have seen many Asian students in Brisbane carry around these little electronic translators (monochrome LCD, keyboard).
Are they worthwhile?
Which English<->Japanese translators are available?
If you have used one, please let me know!

[Pepe]

I'm interested too. My biggest question is whether or not the dictionary is usable in English (i.e. English language menus)? The two or three e-Dictionaries I've seen, although brilliant, where in Japanese or Korean only, and as such not usable by myself. I would also (ideally) want an upgradeable dictionary so that I can use it to learn Italian too.

[Fel1city]

It will be my first time.
My destinations are Kyoto, Osaka and possibly Nikko. ===
Now, I have seen many Asian students in Brisbane carry around these little electronic translators (monochrome LCD, keyboard).
Are they worthwhile?

I wouldn't bother for 2 weeks: where you are going is all very tourist savvy: learn a bit so as to be polite from a tourist phrase book (LP's is excellent): you'll find everything you need is in English anyway: we were a bit wary on our trip in March and were delighted that we could make ourselves understood without any trouble: English is everywhere: all trtansport signs and announcements and basically all thinks touristy: road signs, menus etc: if you were staying a long time (eg studying or working) maybe then get a translator: spend your holiday looking and experiencing rather than typing!!! Have fun: we had a ball......planning in going back ASAP

[manners]

Japan is not another planet. There is a lot of ENglish around and as the above poster saiud there are English signs etc. In touristy areas people speak English.

Learn some Japanese rather than wasting your time using an electronic device. That will be more fun.

[marco75]

You have convinced me: I have heard from a few sources that there is plenty of English signage where it matters. And for 2 weeks it's not worth buying yet another electronic gadget.

Also, what I need to say can be reduced to a few phrases. I just need to bounce them off my Japanese epal beforehand.

Most often: "onaka suita."
After I eat: "tabako ga hitsuyou ga aru."

That last one is supposed to mean: "I need a cigarette." But the grammar looks wrong.

[Nall-ohki]

I feel an electronic dictionary is a tool, much like a fine instrument.

It's better made than other instruments, but at the same time, takes time to learn and will not play beautifully for a novice.

If you're going for a short trip, then save your money - learn some Japanese and buy a pocket reference dictionary. Save the better instrument for if you decide to get into Japanese study seriously.