Caterpillars are plentiful in the spring and summer here in Kobe. Apparently, some are poisonous... to touch? or to eat? I'm not sure but I don't want to find out!
I have been teaching English as a second language for over 20 years in Japan and Canada. What keeps me in Japan is the love of its culture, which constantly surprises me. I am also fascinated with "alternative travel", or "travel off the beaten path". Ferries and trains are my mode of choice... airplane for convenience.