> IMHO Living in a smaller city has many advantages over Tokyo. Fewer
> distractions, less hassle, more access to the traditional things that
> draw many foreigners to Japan in the first place, and a lower cost of
> living. And in my experience it's much easier to visit live in a rural
> area and visit Tokyo than it is to live in Tokyo and visit rural areas.

But what about the accomodation issue? Tokyo has gaijin houses which fit 
my needs exactly (one month stay). I don't know what is available in 
other cities.