yeah, I'll keep that in mind. I have some friends I met this summer working in Korea (that I might try out myself) and hope to get some good time in the region. Hiroshima was on the list if I go long enough. I would really like to take a bike tour through some of the nicer parts of japan perhaps for a few weeks (did one from OR to San Fran this summer). I'd also really like to see if it would be possible to practice some aikido on an extended stay, but the expenses might be an issue. we shall see... thanks!