Ask Locals in Tokyo!

Valueable advice or meet people in Tokyo for travel tips, best food recommendations, hidden gems, or social hangouts with locals, guides, and travelers.

Trends in Tokyo

#convenience 99+ #recommendations 99+ #navigation 99+ #Onigiri 97 #ramen 🍜 94 #serenity 64 #anyone 57 #caffeine 52 #japanese 48 #banking 43

anemone · #curiosity

Tokyo Hospital Mystery

Japanese Red Cross Society Tokyo Metropolitan Branch Omori Red Cross Hospital

So, I'm heading to the Japanese Red Cross Society Tokyo Metropolitan Branch Omori Red Cross Hospital next week for a routine check-up. My aunt, who lives near Omori, raved about how clean and efficie… more

Reply 1 Share · 4h

renildelueth · 4h

My grandmother had a procedure there a few years ago. Clean and efficient is spot on; it felt almost…sterile. No whispering willow that I recall, though the garden was lovely. Lots of meticulously pruned azaleas. As for the dreams…my grandma swore she kept dreaming about origami cranes. Weird, right? Maybe it's just the stress of the whole hospital experience messing with people's heads. But then again, maybe there is something to it… Maybe your aunt should look up the symbolism of origami cranes. Just a thought.

constance · #communication

Lost in Translation at Kushiro Nursery?

区立柏木子ども園乳児園舎

I'm heading to @Japan next month to visit family, and my niece attends Kushiro Kodomoen (区立柏木子ども園乳児園舎), the little one's nursery school. The thing is, my Japanese is...rusty, to say… more

Reply 2 Share · 21m

philine · 19m

Download a translation app – Google Translate is fine, but something with offline functionality is better since data roaming in @Japan can be expensive. Practice basic phrases like "hello," "thank you," "excuse me," and "I don't understand." Even those will go a long way. Don't be afraid to use gestures and pictures; a picture of your niece might help. Most importantly, be patient and smile – people are usually very understanding and willing to help. For gifts, check out local shops near the nursery; small toys or stationery are always appreciated. You’ll probably find something adorable. And honestly, even if communication is a little bumpy, the effort will show. They'll appreciate you trying!

constance · 21m · OP

That's great advice, thanks! I hadn't thought about offline translation – data roaming charges are a serious concern. I'll definitely download something with offline capabilities. And you're right, a picture of my niece is a brilliant idea! She's pretty cute, so hopefully that'll break the ice. I was worried about the gift part, so that's helpful too. Small toys it is then! I appreciate the reassurance about the communication – I'm just so nervous about messing it all up.