How would I send a package to Japan?

Question:

I want to send a painting to Japan (The painting is 18X24") and a couple of other trinkets ( a teddy bear a, letter and a book) and I live in New York. I've never sent anything internationally, so how would I go about this process?

Oh yea and I have another question..do I have to go to the post office with everything already in a box, or can I get the box/bag at the post office?

Answer:

The picture will be a problem to send just because of it's size & what it is. They have flat rate boxes that start at about $16. Regular air mail is 98 cents an ounce. So that's out.
I'd suggest a visit to the PO. Tell them what you have and they'll give you the best rates available.