Despite its size, Tokyo is actually a collection of smaller towns and neighborhoods, each with its own character and flavor. Huge stations like Shinjuku are only 20 minutes from quieter areas like Kichijoji and Jiyugaoka, full of little shops and restaurants to wile away an afternoon. You could spend a lifetime exploring all of the different parts of the city, especially since it is in constant motion, with something new always popping up. Whatever interests you: sports, history, music, film, electronics or shopping, you can find your niche here.

While it is crowded, it is also amazingly well organized and functional. The transportation system is without equal in the world, and every neighborhood has parks, shrines and temples to duck into and relax. You can also get outside: one hour east of Tokyo are the surfing beaches of Chiba, one hour and a half south is scuba diving in Izu, and just over 2 hours west is snowboarding in the Olympic town of Nagano.

Tokyo is known for being one of the world's most expensive cities, but it is surprisingly affordable: most instructors teaching steadily have no problem covering monthly expenses while still having enough money left over to pay down student loans, shop, sightsee, or take up a hobby. Keep in mind that like New York or London, the sky is the limit for luxury goods; it's your lifestyle that determines whether Tokyo is affordable or not!

Osaka is at the center of the second most populous region in Japan. By speedy shinkansen (bullet train), it is only 2 1/2 hours west of Tokyo. Know for its outgoing locals and good food on the cheap, Osaka and the Kansai region are often considered the friendliest place in Japan. Included are the cities of Kyoto and Kobe. The former is considered Japan's center of culture and tradition with its many temples and shrines. Kobe is a lovely city nestled between the ocean and a ridge of mountains to the north. The city has a modern feel with its many high-rise buildings while still managing to preserve the aesthetic of its history as a prominent port.

Nagoya is often overlooked by travelers but should not be ignored. Arguably Japan's industrial heart, many of the nation's most famous exports originate here. For residents - particularly foreign folk - the appeal is often the more manageable pace of life. All the amenities are available without the hordes of people and congestion of Tokyo or Osaka. For those thinking to visit Japan for the purpose of studying the language or traditions, Nagoya is the perfect choice with its lower cost of living and fewer distractions. That said, being located as it is between Osaka and Tokyo, there is any number of adventures waiting close by!