I lived in both Tokyo and middle-of-nowhere Gunma. While I love Tokyo, middle-of-nowhere Gunma was even more enjoyable. In particular, the bonds I formed with

I lived in both Tokyo and middle-of-nowhere Gunma. While I love Tokyo, middle-of-nowhere Gunma was even more enjoyable. In particular, the bonds I formed with other foreigners out in Gunma were notable. When you see another foreigner in Tokyo, it's barely worth turing your head. But it's a special occasion out in Gunma—that almost begs for interaction. "What the hell are you doing out here?" And so on. All the incredible wilderness, all the great hot springs, all the weird people, and you're still just 45 minutes away from Takasaki, and a few more from Tokyo. Here in SV, it takes me 45 minutes just to cross the stupid Dumbarton Bridge to get from Fremont to Stanford. There's a lot to miss in Gunma by comparison.