If you ever need to find a doctor in Japan who can communicate in English, the US Embassy in Japan maintains a list of clinics/hospitals with doctors who can communicate in English. Because we are tourists without Japanese health insurance, we pay the complete cost and possibly get reimbursed by the travel insurance or regular insurance. (For example, my current Cigna plan reimburses for emergency or urgent care). Tourists are also sometimes asked to pay upfront. Most places take card if over a minimum amount (JP¥10,000 seems to be a common minimum) or cash. It is becoming more common to…
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There are two Pokémon Cafes in Japan: Tokyo and Osaka. They are extremely popular to the point that it is difficult, though quite possible, to get reservations. Pokémon Cafe is known more for the decor and getting to eat curry out of a snorlax’s tummy than it is for the quality of the food. In fact, I have heard rather negative reviews with regards to actual food quality here. Food presentation, on the other hand, is rated high. However, for another incentive, there is “Special” Pokémon merchandise (limit of 3) that can only be purchased during the reservation. In 2023,…
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When I was in Akihabara, my friend was very interested in visiting a maid cafe. I was a bit curious, too, because I had been hearing a lot about the maid cafes of Japan. We ended up in a chain maid cafe called maidreamin located very close to the Akihabara Station. To find it, you do have to go in what looks like a side door and then up some stairs, but the very large logo on the wall will tell you that you are on the correct path. In 2018, there is a ¥500 cover charge for entry +…