I have been in Japan for many years and have rung the bells at temples on occasion. But I have never rung in the New Year Japanese Buddhist style by ringing the temple bell 108 times.
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.