581st Radio Relay Company
in Japan (1950)

Japanese Train from Tamioka to Yokohama

While in Japan we were given a good amount of leave. Tamioka was just a small village so we went into Yokohama. We took the train to the city. It cost 5 yen (the Japanese dollar, 100 fen to the dollar). The exchange rate then was 360 yen to the dollar. By that standard we had lots of money. There was lots to do in Yokohama. There was a theater that showed American films. There was a lot of girls. There were many good cheap places to eat. Prices in stores were inexpensive. Good silk, clothes, fine china, and merchandise of all kinds were available. Most everyone was very friendly and helpful.

Rickshaws were very inexpensive to travel around town. Military Police were everywhere. You were very safe. I enjoyed Japan very much. I especially enjoyed going to classical dance shows, singing shows, and art exhibits. Kabuki, Koh, and others were often available.