Paul and Younghee demosntrated to me some pretty impressive GPS/navigation mobile phone software while I was in Tokyo last week – think Google maps in 3D/eye level perspective. Alas my Japanese is pretty limited so I had to rely on other methods while out and about.

Capturing/remembering visual cues

Capture with my Nokia N80 places, signs, street numbers and names, etc. to remember and find again.

Following the herd

The probability to find your destination is pretty good if it is 1) nearby and 2) popular.

Landmarks

Landmarks are whether they are universal ones - Meguro station, Daikaniama tower, Shibuya crossing, etc. or personal ones - where we have bumped into each other last week, John's house, etc.

Maps

Maps are the universal navigation tool, howver it has some serious usability issues. Where I am? What's the direction ? Where is North on the map ? Where is North anyway ? etc.

Instinct

Well, according to some studies and empirical experiences, you are better off if you are a man. Although, you are better off if you are a woman in case you get lost :)