Hey @nomadicdream,
I'm also an expat and have been living in Japan for over 12 years. I Totally understand how you feel about everything about living in Japan. The Japanese people even have outsiders within the Japanese. For example the Burakumin, Ainu and the natives of Hokaido. We are the way outside outsiders. It is difficult to have authentic friendships here but that makes it all the easier to make that one or two friendship that can last a lifetime no matter location.
I'm also writing about Japan
Come on over and check them out!
Upvoted and will follow :)