I have lived in three cities in Japan for the last three years, and strongly recommend Kyoto. I think most people want to live in Tokyo if they come to Japan, but I think Kyoto is one of the best cities in the world. It's beautiful, has an amazing laid-back atmosphere, and is full of interesting events and things as it is the cultural capital of Japan.

The only problem is that you get a lot more out of Japan if you speak Japanese. Not many people here are very good at English. There's plenty of expats, though. Everyone I know who has visited Kyoto temporarily as a tourist or student has loved it and wanted to stay as long as possible.

There are English teaching jobs aplenty in Japan, but many have low pay and not so great conditions. As long as you're not from America, you can come on a working holiday. (I'm American so I came here with a job on the JET (Japan Exchange Teaching) Program. It pays a lot but usually places you in the country-side, not a sweet place like Kyoto.)

Personally, I think living abroad is one of the best, most educational things you can do for yourself. If I could run my own country, I'd require all citizens to live abroad for at least one year.

Good luck, and have fun on your adventure!