Practices are long and grueling and it can be a difficult adjustment for foreigners playing there. However, there is a positive attitude there that I did not experience in Taiwan. The Japanese really want the foreigners to succeed and fit in. This was something that I did not feel in Taiwan. There was too much negativity towards all of the players from the coaches and the owners.
Japan is so much more professional and big league.
I really felt like I belong. The only thing I need to work on is my wardrobe. I am a laid-back California dude and in Japan they are a little more formal. My wife will be happy for this change. The facilities, food, apartment, etc., are top-notch.