Takamatsu Shika

Takamatsu Shika is a neighborhood dental clinic tucked into the residential streets of Kugayama, in Suginami’s quieter western pocket. It’s a standard Japanese private dental practice — think clean, calm, and methodical rather than fancy or tourist-ready. They have some English content on their website, which suggests at least some awareness of foreign patients, but don’t expect fluent English-speaking staff waiting for you at reception. You’ll likely need to come prepared — bring a translation app, write down your symptoms in Japanese beforehand, or bring a Japanese-speaking friend if your issue is complicated. For routine stuff — cleanings, cavities, checkups — the language barrier is manageable. For anything requiring detailed explanations about treatment plans or medications, you’ll want backup. The clinic’s Kugayama location means it’s not the most convenient for expats based in central Tokyo, but if you live in the Suginami or Nerima area, it’s worth knowing about.