If you’re looking to buy glasses there are a number of options available; from low-cost glasses chains like Zoff (www.zoff.co.jp) through to having tests done at a more sophisticated eye clinic. If you already wear contact lenses you’ll find they are readily available from outlets inside shopping malls, online, or through optometrists, but you will need your prescription handy. When you’re short on contact solution you can pick some up from pharmacies and convenience stores.

Eye laser surgery is cheap here and some Japanese lasik clinics offer the surgery for as little as ¥100,000. Places that speak English tend to have higher prices – up to double – so it pays to shop around with the help of a Japanese friend first. The surgery is only a few minutes long but you will need to take it easy for a few days afterwards.

If you want to take your child to see someone, there are opthalmologists and opticians available at hospitals and clinics who can perform any necessary tests. One recommended doctor is Dr Hiroyuki Arai at the Queen’s Eye Clinic.

Expect an eye test when you go for your driving licence in Japan. This is done on the spot to check your vision and to check for colour blindness.