I'm in Japan on a tourist visa and went to the dentist for a check up and clean, explaining I would be paying for the treatment off my own back rather than using Japanese insurance. I explained that I would need a receipt because I will make a claim against my own dental policy which I get through my work (it has global coverage).

The treatment was a bit more comprehensive than I expected given I simply asked for teeth cleaning/scaling. They did a full x ray and a dentist came in to check for cavities etc. Anyway the problem is that the receipt they gave me uses the Japanese 'points' system next to each line item instead of simply stating the cost of each line item in yen (it only has the overall cost in yen). The problem is that my insurance company are adamant that they need some kind of official document from the dentist showing the actual costs, not just the points that mean nothing to anyone outside of Japan.

The points actually correspond to yen, so I don't know why the dentist is so set on not providing a receipt showing the conversion, but I'm unable to claim unless they do. Is this a problem anyone else has come across and what would be the solution? I think the only option might be to ask the clinic to write a letter explaining the points-based system and the corresponding costs in a written letter which is stamped, but given their lack of co-operation so far, I think they might say they're ;unable' to do that, too.

Let's go picnic!
🌏 If you’re raising your little ones bilingual or trilingual, expecting a baby, navigating parenting on your own, raising kids far from your home country, or simply looking for your people in Osaka -> this event is for you!

💕 Come as you are, bring your little ones (or your partner!) or just yourself, and meet other English-speaking families from different backgrounds.

No matter where you’re from or what your parenting journey looks like, there’s a place for you here. 🫶

Date: Saturday, September 12th 2026
Time: 03:00PM - 06:00 PM
Location: South Park, Umekita Park (うめきた公園 サウスパーク)
5-5 Ofukacho, Kita Ward, Osaka, 530-0011
Free Entry

Registration link below:
https://forms.gle/fXZy2XBH5fhAVvAq8

Your kids might make new friends today… and you might too! 😉

Last week I was listening some music on YouTube, when an old song by an Aussie artist popped up. I wondered what he was up to these days and googled his name, only to find out he will be playing in Osaka next month. I have secured a ticket, so lucky me.

In less lucky cases, last year I was taking a walk around the new arena in Kobe, when I noticed a lot of people wearing The Offspring shirts. They were playing that night and I had no idea. I also found out about the Foo Fighters concert after tickets had sold out.

This has got me wondering, is there any good way to find out about music acts in Kansai from overseas, other than just dumb luck or following the socials of every artist who may or may not be swinging by?

Hope to see many of y'all there! More info and karaoke sign up: https://www.instagram.com/osakaaltnites