Am I spending my children's inheritance?

Probably not.  It is not much more expensive than living at home. 

A room for the two of us is $70 to $135 per night.  For $70 at a pilgrim's hostel (private room) we had use of bicycles, and supported a proprietor and his family who are only getting half the pilgrims this year that they usually get.  For $100 at a business/tourist hotel (including breakfast) we were upgraded to a larger room, and helped keep the place afloat with all the Chinese tourists not coming.  And for $135, we are supporting a Buddhist Temple that is still trying to effect repairs from the typhoon last fall.

For $15 or $20 we can get groceries (mostly prepared food) for breakfast and dinner for two.  For $15 to $20 we can eat noodles out.  And for $30 to $45. we can have a very nice meal. 

Train fares range from $2 to $8 for staying around here.  Bullet train is a bit expensive.

Things to note in the pictures: 

The bike lock (not up to DC standards!).  The small size of the upgraded larger room.  The hotel pillow library -- choose what you want! The cosiness of futons on a tatami mat floor.