Can you suggest a second country option besides the USA, such as Japan, and explain the cultural and city environment there?

Yes, Japan is a compelling second country option beyond the USA, giving you a completely different cultural and city experience built around social harmony, deep respect for tradition, and remarkable safety. You will find centuries-old shrines sitting beside neon skyscrapers, and each major city offers you a distinct pace of life to choose from.

Japan's Major Cities At A Glance

What Makes Japan Distinct

• Wa (harmony): public spaces stay orderly, quiet, and clean because residents remain mindful of others.
• Omotenashi (hospitality): service culture is world-class, from department stores to small convenience stores.
• Public transit: train and subway networks rank among the most punctual and comprehensive globally, so you will not need a car.
• Safety: Japan consistently ranks as one of the safest countries worldwide.

My Advice

If you are weighing Japan against the USA, spend a week researching Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka individually before you decide, since your day-to-day experience will differ enormously between them, and consider whether you want Tokyo's career-focused pace, Kyoto's slower cultural immersion, or Osaka's social, food-driven lifestyle.