Hair Care in Japan: Finding the Perfect Salon

Moving to Japan comes with plenty of challenges—navigating the language, figuring out the trash separation system (seriously, why so many categories?), and, of course, finding a hair salon that doesn’t leave you looking like a rejected anime character. If you’re an expat wondering where to get a decent haircut without resorting to Google Translate mid-trim, you’re in the right place.

The Japanese Salon Experience: What to Expect

Japanese salons are known for their high-quality service, precision, and pampering extras. Many salons offer:

• Scalp massages (yes, please)
• Warm towels (luxury-level comfort)
• Meticulous attention to detail (sometimes to the point of perfectionism)
• Complimentary tea or coffee (because hydration is key)

However, the downside is that most stylists are trained to work with Japanese hair types, which can pose challenges for people with curly, coily, or very fine Western or African-textured hair.

The Language Barrier: How to Avoid a Haircut Disaster

If your Japanese skills are still at the ordering-ramen-and-hoping-for-the-best level, here’s how to communicate effectively:

1. Bring Pictures

A picture is worth a thousand mispronounced words. Show your stylist multiple angles of the style you want.

2. Learn Key Japanese Hair Terms

Here are a few lifesavers:

• Katto (カット) – Cut
• Kami (髪) – Hair
• Nagai (長い) / Mijikai (短い) – Long / Short
• Sorosoro ni (そろそろに) – Just a trim
• Sutoreeto pāma (ストレートパーマ) – Straight perm
• Paama (パーマ) – Regular perm (curling)
• Bōfu (ぼうふ) – Volume

3. Ask for a Stylist Who Speaks English

Larger salons in big cities often have stylists who speak at least basic English. If in doubt, call ahead or check their website.

Finding a Salon That Works for You

1. English-Friendly Salons

If you’re not confident in Japanese, seek out salons that cater to foreigners. Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto have several:

• Gold Salon Tokyo (Omotesando, Tokyo) – Specializes in foreign hair types.
• Hayato Tokyo (Roppongi, Tokyo & New York branch) – Bilingual stylists with experience working abroad.
• Sozo Hair & Make (Harajuku, Tokyo) – Western-trained stylists who understand different hair textures.
• Baroque Hair and Nails (Shibuya, Tokyo) – Popular among expats for its high-quality cuts and coloring.

2. Salons for Curly, Coily, and Textured Hair

Japanese salons are not usually trained in Afro-textured or naturally curly hair care, but a few spots cater to diverse hair types:

• Gold Salon Tokyo – Specializes in Caucasian and Afro-textured hair.
• Sin Den (Harajuku, Tokyo) – A great option for Western hair, including textured styles.
• Hair Resort Ai (Tokyo, multiple locations) – Some stylists are experienced with different curl patterns.

3. Budget-Friendly Options

If you just need a quick trim and don’t want to break the bank:

• QB House – The “fast food” of haircuts. No frills, just a ¥1,200 cut in 10 minutes.
• 2,000-3,000 Yen Salons – Many local salons offer decent haircuts in this price range, though communication can be trickier.

Coloring and Perms: What You Need to Know

1. Hair Dye Differences

Japanese hair dye is designed for thicker, darker hair, meaning:

• It can be too strong for fine hair.
• It may not lift lighter hair as much as Western dyes do.
• If you have blonde, red, or highlighted hair, find a salon that specializes in foreign hair to avoid unexpected color disasters.

2. Perms and Straightening Treatments

• Japanese Straight Perms – Excellent for those who want sleek, ultra-straight hair, but may be too harsh for delicate hair.
• Digital Perms – Create long-lasting curls but work best on straight to wavy hair.
• Keratin Treatments – Not as common as in the West, but some salons offer them.

Barbershops and Men’s Haircuts

Men’s salons in Japan are extremely detailed—some even trim your eyebrows and shave your face for you. Options include:

• Bespoke Barbers (Tokyo) – Western-style barbershop with English-speaking staff.
• Schorem Barbershop (Tokyo) – Traditional barbershop with classic fades and cuts.
• Barber Fuji (Osaka) – A well-known place for stylish men’s cuts.

For a budget cut, look for QB House or 1,000 Yen Quick Cuts around train stations.

Hair Care Products for Expats

Japanese shampoos and styling products are great, but they’re formulated for Japanese hair. If you need products for curly, frizzy, or coarse hair, consider:

• Don Quijote – Stocks some Western brands.
• Plaza / Loft – Carries salon-grade Japanese and foreign products.
• Amazon Japan / iHerb – Best for getting international brands delivered.

Final Tips for a Great Haircut in Japan

✅ Do your research – Read reviews before booking.
✅ Be clear with what you want – Overcommunication is better than walking out with the wrong cut.
✅ Find a stylist who understands your hair type – Try knowing your hair type, allergies, and also your skin type, especially if you’ll be getting treatments for your hair. It makes all the difference.
✅ Expect a little extra pampering – Japanese salons treat haircuts like an art form.

Finding the right salon in Japan might take a few tries, but once you find your go-to stylist, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without Japanese scalp massages. 💆‍♂️✨

Have any hair horror stories or great recommendations? Drop them below! 🚀