Tips for Next Japan Trip?

Hello everyone, long time lurker, first time poster. I have been to Japan twice and have absolutely fallen in love with it. I plan to go back again in two years and wanted to get some recommendations. Here are some of the kinds of things I'm looking for:

  1. Language learning: I've spent some time learning VERY basic Japanese over the past few years, I can mostly read Hiragana and Katakana fine but no Kanji. I want to be able to participate in basic conversations on my next visit. What would be the best way to accomplish this?

  2. I've been to many of the major spots in Tokyo and Osaka. In my first two trips, I mainly stuck to popular destinations and city living. I'm interested in more countryside/immersion areas. I would still likely go to the big cities for part of the trip, but I'm willing to travel out to other areas.

  3. Any general hidden gem spots that you're willing to share.

  4. Best place to purchase cameras and camera gear in any major city?

by Gley4267