Originally Posted by ksandness

As one whose first experiences in Japan occurred in 1977, I can say that 1600 yen was a bargain for overnight accommodations at that time. I believe it was less than a youth hostel, for instance.

The only lodging price that I remember from that period is 6500 yen for a ryokan that was upscale enough to have a maid for each room. It was my "splurge" in Kyoto, because I had saved a night's lodging due to an unexpected invitation from an old friend.

At that time, the cheapest fare on Tokyo's JR commuter trains was 60 yen, and I believe the subways were 80 yen, although the typical trip was more like 120 yen.

A teishoku in a neighborhood restaurant was about 500 yen. Rent for a 6-mat apartment with kitchen and toilet but no shower in Nakano was 30,000 a month.