I've played through only the US version, but I don't think it would be very difficult to make it through the Japanese rendition. You usually don't have many options as far as ways to go are concerned. Making progress is more about paying close attention to details of the environment (remembering a keyhole or a ledge that you'll need to return to later, for instance) as opposed to following clues. There are only a couple towns, and most of the speech serves to advance the story rather than to give you hints. If you find yourself stuck, there are links to two walkthroughs for the game listed in the "Compendium of Walkthroughs" thread at the top of this board.