[kellia]

I lived in the Tokyo area for 3 years and visited Okinawa twice. These are two completely different kinds of areas. Tokyo is busy and congested with lots to do, while Okinawa is a beautiful island -- isolated from Japan -- with only a few malls, lots of beaches, and a lot of Americans. Beware that not all Japanese (especially Okinawans) like Americans. But I never had any trouble from these very polite people. I love Japanese people -- especially in Japan. They become different when they get to the U.S. -- more pushy and rude like the rest of us Westerners.

I'm a much nicer person after living in Japan for 3 years. You will love it! Being in air force will give you the freedom to hop a ride to Tokyo (via Yokota Air Base) so take advantage of that as often as you can. Hardy Barracks is a great place to stay if the New Sanno is booked.

Hope this helps.