This used to be common in the past, but not so much today due to AI translation (even then, some still run into these issues as they have zero knowledge of Japanese). NEVER use Google Translate, like at all! Even for travel. I studied Japanese for a while and know that it’s a piece of shit.
I went like 6 or 7 years ago. Basically no knowledge of Japanese. I used Google translate quite a bit. And yeah it was hit or miss, but generally worked well enough. Is there a better translater?
Besides that, you’ll encounter English a fair bit. Store names, brand names, signage, menus. Not the norn, but not uncommon. And plenty of information out there in English of how to get around.
Relative to other countries where both the spoken language and writing are foreign to me, my subjective opinion I found it easier. Not easy, easier.
Edit: oh and similarly not uncommon to encounter people who speak at least a little English.