Few countries have embraced genetic renewal with more enthusiasm than Japan. Within just a few years, this once aging nation has gone from a sea of silver hair to one of the youngest and most dynamic countries in Asia. 1 in 4 of its citizens have already undergone renewal. The changes to its society have been profound enough to require the publication of this guide, and so ubiquitous is it that visitors can enjoy tea and cakes at one of many themed renewal maid cafes, surrounded by gestating geriatrics in their transparent rebirthing tanks.<br /><br /> &nbsp; &nbsp;We highly recommend the Sailor Moon Cafe in Shibuya, where you will be waited on by maids repaying the cost of their treatment.<br /><br /> Cuteness (or kawaii) is highly in vogue, particularly among men. One hasn't truly experienced Tokyo without sharing a night of catgirl karaoke with a group of drunk salarymen catgirls. But a traveller should be wary. Not all are as harmless as they appear.<br /><br /> The yakuza represent a renewed threat to unwary travellers. While in years gone-by this criminal gang could be identified by their tattoos, their scars, or the characteristic absence of fingers, the act of renewal erases all these tell-tale signs. Age will not help you, nor gender. They will not be the thuggish brutes you expect. Many have been renewed so often for injuries sustained in their careers that their human DNA has begun to unravel and the holes patched with animal DNA. Their most violent enforcers are all the more likely to have begun their slide into true animalhood.<br /><br /> Do not allow the neediness and playfulness of the average salaryman to give the false impression that all catgirls are created by choice, or that they are all seeking to bag themselves a night of fun with a western tourist. Touch a yakuza and forfeit the hand. It is considered the gravest disrespect, and they will literally eat you alive if they believe it will reclaim their honour. Their brutality cannot be overstated.<br /><br /> Avoid ending your holiday in a catgirl's stomach by following these two simple rules:<br /> 1. Do not attend any onsen frequented by yakuza [see pg. 155 for our lsit of onsen]<br /> 2. Do not headpat any catgirl without their permission. Listen out for the phrases 'nadete kudsai' or 'watashi wa hatsuj&#333;-kidesu.'<br /><br /> Act with common sense and respect, and you will be fine.