Total Tokyo

I read with great interest the experiences and observations of Kim Upton (“Prices in Tokyo Need Not Be Food for Thought,” Dec. 17) and in general agree with most of what she reported. The one statement with which I have some question was, “a breakfast of eggs, ham, juice and croissants will cost at least $12 per person.” If that is true, I would greatly appreciate getting the name and address of that place. In my experience, one can expect to be charged $10 to $12 just for juice, croissant and coffee.

As for hotels, if one can be sponsored by a member, I highly recommend the International House of Japan in the Roppongi section of Tokyo. Many U.S. firms are members and if one is interested, then one can apply for an individual membership. All rooms are furnished Western-style and, except for a few singles, all have private baths. One cannot beat the cost, about $35 to $45 per room, including full American-style breakfast.

I also suggest trying any of the Hokke Club Hotels. They are owned and operated by a group of Buddhist monks and are pegged to the average family, traveling businessman and student. Although the rooms are Spartan in nature, they are kept quite clean and there is a color television in each room. There is a choice of a room with tatami mat and futon, or one with a Western bed. The price is in the $30 range, and it includes a sumptuous breakfast.

ROCCO L. MOTTO

Los Angeles

Editor’s note: The name and address of the hotel where the breakfast described can be purchased for “at least $12 per person” is the New Takanawa Prince Hotel, 3-13-1 Takanawa Minato-ku, Tokyo.