How to Find English-Speaking Services in Tokyo

A foreigner trying to cope in a city without the ability to speak their tongue is quite daunting. To English-speaking tourists visiting Tokyo, this problem is even more difficult to handle. However, being a major international hub, there is a good range of English-speaking services in Tokyo that can make life easier for its English-speaking visitors. 

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to find these services and make your Tokyo experience as smooth as possible.

Key English-Speaking Services to Know About

Hospitals and Medical Services

This will be most helpful at the time of any medical emergency or even for routine care. English is spoken at many hospitals and clinics in Tokyo. Key options include:

• Tokyo Medical University Hospital: Renowned for its English-speaking staff and international patient services.
• St. Luke’s International Hospital: Offers comprehensive care with English-speaking medical professionals.

For immediate assistance, consider using resources like:

• Japan Healthcare Info: This platform provides a directory of English-speaking medical professionals and facilities throughout Tokyo.
• Medical Assistance Japan: Offers listings of English-friendly medical services and can be a valuable resource in urgent situations.

Restaurants and Cafes

Food is a central part of experiencing Tokyo, and luckily, many restaurants cater to English speakers. To find these places:

• Look for restaurants with English menus: Many dining establishments in tourist areas offer menus in English. You can spot these places by looking for signs or asking your hotel concierge for recommendations.
• Use food delivery apps: Apps like Uber Eats and Foodpanda have English interfaces and make it easy to order from a wide range of restaurants.

Transportation and Taxis

Getting around Tokyo is relatively straightforward, thanks to the city’s efficient public transportation system. For navigating transport:

• Google Maps and the Japan Travel app: Both provide comprehensive transit information in English, including routes, schedules, and real-time updates.
• JapanTaxi: An app designed for English-speaking customers. It simplifies the process of hailing a cab and communicating your destination.

Also, big train stations have signs and announcements in most languages, especially English, making it easier to get to town.

Hotels and Accommodations

Accommodation with English-speaking staff can be found in Tokyo with little difficulty. Some of the effective ways of booking accommodation include:

• Book major hotels: Large hotels are in or around major tourist centers, and most of them have some English that can be reached.
• Book with booking platforms: Websites like Booking.com and Agoda allow you to filter your search results for hotels that offer English-speaking services. This can make booking easier and ensure you have support during your stay.

In the case of any need for help during your stay, don’t hesitate to contact the front desk of your hotel. Most hotels around tourist areas are accustomed to international guests and thus are prepared to assist with general information or other problems.

Apps and Technology for English-Speaking Services

Translation Apps

In situations where you need to communicate with someone who doesn’t speak English, translation apps can be incredibly helpful. Recommended apps include:

• Google Translate: Provides translations of text, voice, and images and is hence versatile in many situations such as translating menus and signs.
• Waygo: specializes in text translation from images, which helps when reading restaurant menus and signs.

Tokyo English-Speaking Services Apps

Several apps are specifically designed to assist English speakers in Tokyo:

• Pocket Concierge: Provides booking options for restaurants and services with English support. It’s particularly useful for securing reservations at popular dining spots.
• Gurunavi: A restaurant guide that offers information in English, including menus and reviews.

SIM Cards and Pocket WiFi

Reliable internet access is crucial for finding English-speaking services. Consider:

• Renting a SIM card or a pocket WiFi device upon arrival. This ensures you have internet access throughout your stay, allowing you to use translation apps and access various English-speaking services.

Embassy and Tourist Information Centers

Embassies

Embassies are a valuable resource for visitors needing assistance. Notable embassies in Tokyo include:

• US Embassy: Offers support for American citizens and can provide guidance on English-speaking services.
• UK Embassy: Assists British citizens and helps with various issues, including finding English-speaking services.

Embassies can offer emergency support and additional resources to help navigate Tokyo.

Tourist Information Centers

Tokyo is well-equipped with tourist information centers staffed by English speakers:

• Shinjuku Tourist Information Center: Located in the bustling Shinjuku district, this center offers maps, brochures, and advice in English.
• Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Information Center: Provides helpful information and assistance in English to visitors exploring Tokyo.

Insider Tips to Make Communication Easier

Basic Japanese Phrases

Learning a few basic Japanese phrases can go a long way in easing communication. Useful phrases include:

• “Sumimasen” – Excuse me: A polite way to catch someone’s attention.
• “Eigo o hanasemasu ka?” (Do you speak English?): Helpful for finding someone who can assist in English.

The locals appreciate any effort to speak their language, even if only a few words.

Book a Guided Tour Today to Enjoy Convenience Throughout Your Stay

Finding English-speaking services in Tokyo is easy with a little preparation. Use translation apps, visit tourist information centers, and pick up a few basic Japanese phrases to make your stay smoother. With the right tools, you’ll fully enjoy everything Tokyo has to offer! Ready to explore? Book your guided tour with us today and experience Tokyo like a local!