You might try traveling other places before you reach your destination. That way you can experience a variety of cultures and places before you dive back into Japan. You might also try looking into @cryotosensei for some insight into Japan. He is there now.

Rothbardian_fanatic

I plan to go back during my time traveling again! This time I will be in a more cultural oriented exchange and I hope this will open my eyes even moreso! 

speakingyourtruth

alter_native

backpacking the world.

What did you do in Japan, teach English on a one year contract? Not near enough time to get to know the place!
You could try traveling onwards. There is a whole world out there to be discovered and lots of people to meet and talk to. I know, been there and done that.