Very cool, Mitch! I've heard there is some very good diving off Japan.
I really enjoy it. Along the East coast where I am located it's pretty developed. Luckily the Island we go to has some great shore sites.
It doesn't compare to Okinawa, I'm sure. But I'm all about maximizing what's right in my back yard.
There are many divers that come here from other warm places and stop diving because it's too cold, or the visibility isn't what they are used to.
Too bad, because the diving here is still pretty good.
Cheers,
Mitch