I no longer remember the conversation, but I think I would have spoken to them in Japanese. Unless they specifically advertise an English language line, I think the best you can do is call and see. Every now and then you'll come across a person with great English - even in the most unlikely places. My biggest surprise was a homeless guy who approached me at a bookstore near Ueno station. Didn't want money - Just wanted to chat a bit in English: True eki-mae eikaiwa.