Angry White Pyjamas - Robert Twigger

Nominally a book about the rigors of aikido training, this is actually just as revealing a treatment of ex-pat life in Tokyo. A self-desribed "thirty-nothing" British poet joins the Tokyo riot police aikido course. Humourously written and intriguing.
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Dave Barry Does Japan - Dave Barry

This made me laugh out loud far too often than is healthy on a packed commuter train. Priceless observations on Japan and the Japanese. Essential for anyone who's ever spent time in Japan and hilarious, if slightly less relevant, for the rest of you. Highly recommended.
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Embracing Defeat: Japan in the Wake of World War II - John W. Dower

Comprehensive and often fascinating look at how the post-war years shaped the modern Japan. Essential reading for anyone with an interest in Japan's recent history.
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What's What in Japanese Restaurants : A Guide to Ordering, Eating and Enjoying - Robb Satterwhite

The author of this book is Robb Satterwhite, the driving force behind Tokyo Food Page, a comprehensive Web guide to eating and drinking in the capital. As you'd expect, the book is similarly authoritative and does a great job of demystifying Japanese cuisine. Good value even for the one-time visitor. Recommended.
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The Book of Sushi - Hinjiro Omae, Kinjiro Omae, Yuzuru Tachibana

A great introduction to sushi, including recipies, techniques and background information. Nicely laid out and easy to read.
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