Dear kaeru,
Many thanks for the site -- I've started preparing to write the 1kyuu in December 2009 and I'm learning much from your site. I've come to many of the same conclusions that you have regarding the best way to study Japanese in order to pass the 1kyuu/2kyuu, after many mistaken approaches over quite a few years, and it's reassuring to know that others are studying using similar methods, with success. It is reassuring especially since so much time must be invested to become skilled at reading Japanese, that the cost of failure due to using incorrect or inefficient methods is extremely high.
Also best wishes for writing your 1kyuu -- note that I didn't say "good luck", since due to your extensive preparation, I don't think you will need it.
Regards,
GameFriend