[steven]

Maybe a place like Kanazawa would work out for you. It's certainly got history. It has a lot of nature, but some crazy weather. It's near the coast, too. The city can be a little confusing though, in my opinion. I always enjoy Fukui when I go there, but that might be too rural for your taste. [EDIT: See Nyororin's post below about Fukui] You'd certainly not have too much competition.... although there might not be as big a demand for English as in other areas.