The Tokyo Stock Exchange remains mired in a depressed price range, with the benchmark Nikkei average flirting with its lowest level in more than 15 years.

The 225-issue Nikkei average ended last week at 12,261.80, its lowest close since July 31, 1985, and down 41 percent from its recent peak of 20,833.21, posted last April 12.

Viewed from a wider perspective, however, the market appears to be offering bargain hunters some good opportunities.