[cafeviahe]

I'm not sure I can answer your questions fully, so I thought I'd help you find some resources that can help guide you. Below is just a few links and resources. There are a lot more on the net if you look. Books and travel guides also help, and I' recommend buying a few.

Resources:
http://jguide.stanford.edu/site/movi...apan_2117.html
http://www.gaijinpot.com/resources_l.php
http://www.daijob.com/en/support/dailylife