[MightyFlameboy]

Those are very interesting places you've mentioned. I've heard alot about Shirakawa-go from my parents. It fits well with my agenda of exploring new places. I'm too used to the familiarity when I'm in Tokyo or Osaka, so I'm trying to break that since I've already taken a bold step to study in Japan.

Regarding Japanese proficiency, I'll be taking Advanced lessons from next week onwards. I've had several experiences talking to native Japanese in cross-cultural exchanges. Not that many to say I've become comfortable speaking in Japanese, but enough to say that I can still carry a conversation well with a Japanese, albeit the occasional lapses in understanding.

I'm a 23 year old youthful-faced Chinese Singaporean, so if any non-Japanese Asians are around here, I would also kindly appreciate your advice. Thanks Nyororin for the suggestions!