And that concludes my first visit to Japan.
I have three reviews to write up, all fun, positive experiences...with lessons learned along the way. But far and away, the thing that I needed more of was (wait for it ...) language skill.
...and I could stand to lose a few kilos too, because lordy it's been a sweaty visit.
This is just a long-winded thank you, so if you aren't in the mood for overly earnest appreciation, apologies in advance.
I will say, this forum proved invaluable to this gaijin's exploration of the more risque side of Japan and as someone who has been in more forums than I care to count in my 46 years...the level of empathy, kindness and humor on this forum is without parallel. You all represent a very wide range of experience, and the constant barrage of horny, clueless tourists traipsing into your conversations with the same hopes and questions would normally drive this kind of place private or turn it toxic. Kudos to the moderators and the members for rising above that and offering such amazing advice.
The naughty stuff was a bonus, but frankly, I fell in love with the rest of Japan too. I got outside of the city into a more rural part of the country, up in the Gunma Prefecture, and the landscapes alone could bring me back...not to mention the food.
I was lucky to also go out one night with some locals who took me to (non sexual) places I never would have had access to...walk-up apartment speak-easy style bars, hostess clubs and karaoke. And I did a fair amount of wandering into the depths of the underground shopping complexes that seems to serve up a more unpolished and functional version of Tokyo than what's available street-side.
Different as fuck from my suburban American life.
Now I have two action-items...
Learn (a lot) more Japanese...and come back.
Maybe next time I'll be skilled enough to buy one of you a beer.
For now, I guess I'll grow back my beard...