[joey7]

Well, some stables have "translator" (they outsource some local but they normally not stationed in the establishment).

Most do not speak English in Yoshi or not comfortable with using it, so yea, you do need basic conversation skill at least, OR research which establishment has translator and you can try call him/her to meet you at the establishment at specified time to translate for you.

And remember not to use the term JAP, in Japan.