David Barnett
Those are both good woods. I especially like quarter-sawn goncalo alves. Both GA and Ipe (years ago we used to call it 'lapacho'), are hard oily woods so it's not a bad idea to wipe down with solvent before gluing and test before committing.

"I wouldn't mind making a Japanese plane, if only I knew what one is."

As for Japanese planes, they're not my thing, but TomD is a great resource, as he's totally knowledgeable and has also taught dai making, as I recall. Ask him what to read or which videos to watch. Depending on your learning style, it might help to get some background before jumping in.

"Can I get some plans for one around here?"

Dai-making, as I understand it, it's less a 'plans' thing than e a process with defined goals. Again, TomD's your best bet, I'd say.