I think you can count on any moderately-priced appetizer and any moderately-priced entree to be included. Where Japan appears to get "funky" is with high-priced items. For example, some of the entrees there are $16 while others are $25 -- I bet if you have a problem it'll be with the $25 entree. Similarly, some appetizers are $3-$4 while others are $12.

Clearly, that $12 appetizer isn't the same value as the others, and is a ripe candidate for an exclusion.
So if you stay away from the high-priced items, and stick to the menu and stick to what it explicitly says in the plan's brochure, you shouldn't have a problem. If you want to get more creative or choose higher-priced items, just be sure to check with your server when you're ordering to see whether they will be covered by the dining plan or not.