John, the area where my wife's family lives (coastal) is ~33.5* latitude (Atlanta lies at the same latitude). Climate wise, it reminds me the most of the Appalachian/Piedmont region of western NC (perhaps the mountains and foothills of northern AL and GA would be a better likeness, but I haven't spent any time there). The only real difference I've noticed is the temperature extremes (both daily and seasonal) are less significant due to the proximity of the ocean. Of course, just about anywhere you go in Japan, you're either on the coast, or in the mountains, so altitude has to be taken into account.

Shane
-----
Lifelist