Polepole Clinic

Total reviews: 345
Takanawa Gateway Station (JR Yamanote Line) — 2 min walk
  • Calm, child-friendly atmosphere
  • Near central Tokyo
  • Polepole Clinic is a pediatric clinic tucked into the 4th floor of a building in Takanawa, Minato — a neighborhood with a solid expat population, so they’re not strangers to international families. The name comes from Swahili for “slowly, slowly,” and the parent company is literally named Hakuna Matata, which tells you something about the vibe they’re going for: calm, unhurried, not clinical in a cold way.

    They see kids for general pediatric care — routine checkups, sick visits, vaccinations. The website has some English content, which is a good sign, but it doesn’t confirm fully bilingual staff or English-language consultations. Expect to bring a Japanese-speaking friend or a translation app if your Japanese is limited. Don’t assume the doctor speaks English fluently just because the site isn’t entirely in Japanese.

    It’s a small clinic, which usually means shorter waits and a doctor who actually remembers your kid. Worth calling ahead to ask about English capability before your first visit.

    Patient Feedback

    Parents tend to describe the clinic as genuinely relaxed — the Hakuna Matata branding isn’t just a gimmick. Wait times appear reasonable for a small private pediatric practice. The doctor takes time with patients rather than rushing families through. Being on the 4th floor of an office building means it’s easy to walk past, so check the building directory carefully. Overall impression is warm and unhurried, which matters a lot when you have a stressed toddler in tow.

    English Language Proficiency

    The website includes some English, which is more than most local clinics offer — but that doesn't guarantee an English-speaking receptionist or doctor. There's no confirmed bilingual staff listed publicly. If your Japanese is minimal, download a medical translation app before you go, and consider writing down your child's symptoms in Japanese in advance. Calling ahead to test the English situation is strongly recommended. Don't show up assuming you'll be fine — verify first.

    Contact & Location

    • https://polepole-clinic.com
    • 東京都港区高輪1-5-21 ルート高輪ビル4F
    • Takanawa Gateway Station (JR Yamanote Line) — 2 min walk
    Monday 3:00 PM - 6:30 PM
    Tuesday 3:00 PM - 6:30 PM
    Wednesday 3:00 PM - 6:30 PM
    Thursday Closed
    Friday 3:00 PM - 6:30 PM
    Saturday 9:30 AM - 12:30 PM
    Sunday Closed

    Ready to Book Your Appointment?

    A few things to keep in mind:

    • Check the doctor's consultation hours listed above.
    • Some clinics require appointments 2-3 days in advance.
    • Include your preferred dates and times when reaching out.
    • Mention if you need English-speaking staff assistance.
    Polepole Clinic

    Need a phone script in Japanese? Click here.

    Other scripts: Cancel/Reschedule · Describe Symptoms · Pharmacy · Emergency · Dental

    English Support

    Proficiency Score
    2/5

    Basic

    KantanHealth is free and supported by Jozu — The document translation app for expats in Japan.