A study investigated the motivation and perceptions of 16 Americans teaching English as a Second Language in Japan. Data were gathered by oral interview, and the questions asked focused on: initial motivation for coming to Japan; motivation to extend the length of stay; proficiency in Japanese at the beginning of the stay and currently; reasons for studying or not studying Japanese; working conditions and attitudes; lifestyle outside work and satisfaction with this aspect of life; attitudes toward Japan and the Japanese; cultural adaptation strategies, or strategies for existing without significant adaptation; feelings about one's role as a foreigner in Japanese society; and reactions to the strategies, attitudes, and behaviors of other foreigners living in Japan. The research was not quantitative, but trends emerged among interviewees. Responses are summarized and illustrated with comments and stories told by the interviewees. Overall, it was found that most were relatively satisfied with their situations, and that factors unrelated to Japan or Japanese culture were often most significant in determining satisfaction. The interview questionnaires, some culture-related quotations, and brief reference lists are appended. (MSE)