A very mountainous landscape and consequently the cities are very crowded and lie in the few flat areas of the country. Best public transportation in the world. Cleanest country in the world. Almost no police presence anywhere. Police do not carry guns.
Mushrooms are legal.
Wow, I'd have to write several paragraphs to begin to express my affection for the inhabitants of this oddly ancient and simultaneously post-modern country. I was welcomed like an old friend by all the Japanese phans. Invited to dinner, drinks, to stay at their houses, to meet their families, given gifts, showered with smiles and affection and laughter and trust and goodwill. Simply the most extraordinary people I have ever met. My back still hurts from bowing so deeply in my profound appreciation of the unending kindness that came my way.