We have friends who live there with a 3 year old boy and 6 year old girl. We have been to their house several times and it is a nice village. They are from England and Japan and have had no problems being 'accepted'. They like it there very much and as a mother to two kids myself, it seems like a very nice place for kids. The bus ride is easy and quick and shouldn't be a concern. Good luck and I think it is very nice of you to assist your friend in this way.