thanks for the replies... i am actually in japan right now. had a Platz for a couple of days, but not much fun (tough to get it wound up!!)... met some very friendly police though. and got some pretty classy pics.
i think i'll just stick to shinkansen... they're a much faster ride! and i'm heading north anyway. no use for a fast car up there.
and it wasn't for in the city! a pushy is the ultimate vehicle in the city!!!