Learning about Japan!

My wife and I'll will be traveling through Japan (Tokyo -> Kyoto) for about 10 days as part of an RTW.
We wanted to divide and conquer the different countries in terms of reading about the history and culture -- and if possible the language -- of each place we'll be traveling too.
Any recommendations on books to learn a bit about Japanese history/culture? I'm looking for a book or resource fairly brief but that provides a good conceptual understanding of Japanese culture/history.
It would be great to read a bit more on the Chinese/Japanese relationship as well, as we'll be traveling to China immediately after Japan.

Thanks!