Lived and teached there for two years. Super safe feeling would be out and about till the early AM with no issue. Kind people fun mix of city and rural. Good train ride distance from Tokyo attractions but has a fun local scene too. Wish I could stay longer and explore more! Very rarely did I encounter issues. Wore my afro out one time and some random person would ask if they could touch it in surprisingly great English but got the hint when a firm no was given. Other than that I'd say it was great!