I just moved back to the States are spending five years in rural Shimane ken.

I've found that many prices for basic goods are about the same.

A meal out can cost about the same - no tipping in Japan can save you a little.

Certain things are cheaper here in the US - movie tickets, gasoline, fruit, etc.

Some things were cheaper in Japan.

But it really is about the same.

The biggest thing about living in Japan for any length on time is that you have to stop converting everything you spend into your home currency and just start thinking in yen. And then you can judge the value of something based on other goods/services you need in Japan at Japan prices. There is nothing worse than a whiny gaijin going on and on about how things in Japan are more expensive than back in the home country.

-Jason