See all my photos here. With the mix of old (the culture) and new (the technology) there is something for everyone in this amazing place. Some impressions:
Politeness. From the greetings that meet you as soon as you enter a store or walked past a stall, to the touters that politely bow at you when offering you their brochures to the fact you never hear a mobile phone ring, ever, the politeness of the Japanese are always on display. An extreme example was the lady who gave Stephen a small cookie for giving us seat up for her! I felt myself ever so admiring of their politeness – so much so that I think I automatically bowed at people for a few days after leaving the country!
Cleanliness. I hardly saw any rubbish anywhere, despite the fact that there were hardly ever any bins around. When there were bins they were always recycle bins separating the bottles from the paper from the plastic. I think the Japanese either don’t create rubbish while out in the streets or take it home with them.
Vending machine culture. There are vending machines everywhere. Mainly selling drinks or cigarettes but there are some that sell meal tickets, toys and even undergarments.
Energy. Whilst many things are bright and energetic, including the doll-like Japanese women, business men are unfailingly dressed somberly in their black (or dark) suits and white shirts. When you seen them en masse it makes for a morose and strangely intimidating picture.
Detail. The Japanese are masters of presentation and detail and it is seen in all aspects of their life including clothing, gifts, and most especially food.
Face masks. A large majority of the public were wearing face masks but rather than warding off pollution, as I first thought, apparently these were for warding off colds and flus (in January and February) and hay fever (in April and May).
Still smiling: 
You have lovely photos of Japan. I lived there for 5 years but have not gone back for a long time. It was nice to refresh some of the images from Japan.
Thanks for your comment. Japan was absolutely wonderful.