How To Get The Best Results At A Japanese Hair Salon

Visiting a Japanese hair salon can be a unique and luxurious experience, but it can also be daunting for those who do not speak Japanese. However, with some preparation and knowledge of key phrases, you can navigate the experience smoothly and enjoy the renowned Japanese hospitality.

Types of Japanese Hair Salons

In Japan, there are generally two types of establishments where you can get your hair done: barber shops or quick salons, and full-service hair salons. Barber shops and quick salons offer quick services such as simple haircuts and hair dyeing, while full-service hair salons provide more advanced procedures and personalized care.

Making a Reservation

Before you visit, it's often a good idea to make a reservation. Here are some key phrases to help you:

• Customer: 予約したいんですけど… Yoyaku shitai n desu kedo… (I'd like to make a reservation.)
• Stylist: はい、分かりました！何時がよろしいでしょうか？ Hai, wakarimashita Nanji ga yoroshii desho̅ ka? (Okay What time would you like it to be?)
• Customer: 今日の６時に予約できますか？ Kyo̅ no rokuji ni yoyaku dekimasu ka? (Is there an appointment available at 6:00 today?).

Communicating During the Salon Visit

Discussing Hair Designs

When you arrive at the salon, you'll need to communicate your desired hairstyle. Here are some useful phrases:

• Stylist: 今日はどうされますか？ Kyo̅ ha do̅ saremasu ka? (What are we doing today?)
• Customer: この写真のカットとスタイルにできますか？ Kono shashin no katto to sutairu ni dekimasu ka? (Can you cut and style my hair like this picture?)
• Customer: ヘアスタイルの本や雑誌がありますか？まだ決めてないです。 Hea sutairu no hon ya zasshi ga arimasu ka? Mada kimete nai desu. (Do you have any style books or magazines? I haven’t decided.)
• Customer: おすすめはありますか？ Osusume wa arimasu ka? (Do you have a recommendation?)
• Customer: 今、人気のスタイルは何ですか？ Ima ninkino sutairu wa nandesuka? (What’s the popular style right now?).

Shampoo and Haircut Experience

At Japanese salons, the shampoo experience is particularly notable. Here’s what you can expect:

• Shampoo Area: You will often leave the service chair to go to a dedicated shampoo area where the stylist will shampoo your hair. This experience can be very relaxing, with a warm towel placed over your face.
• Communication: Let the staff know if you feel itchy or if the water is too hot or cold. Simple gestures or phrases like "お湯加減、大丈夫ですか？" Oyu kagen, daijoubu desu ka? (Is the water temperature okay?) can help.

Payment and Additional Services

Payment

• Credit Cards: Many Japanese hair salons now accept credit cards, making payment convenient for international visitors.
• Student Discounts: If you are a student, be sure to have your student ID with you, as some salons offer discounts.

Additional Services

Japanese hair salons often offer a range of services beyond the standard haircut and shampoo. These include:

• Hair Straightening: Advanced methods to straighten hair without damage, particularly popular during the humid summer months.
• Hair Coloring: Specialized techniques for decolorizing and dyeing black hair, which is common among Japanese people.
• Conditioning Treatments: Treatments that can improve hair texture significantly, even after just one session.

Enhancing Your Experience

Hospitality and Amenities

Japanese salons are known for their exceptional hospitality. Here are a few things you might experience:

• Beverages: Many salons will serve tea or coffee while you wait or during your consultation.
• Massages: Some salons offer light neck or head massages after your procedure, adding to the relaxing experience.

Traditional Services

For those interested in traditional Japanese beauty, some salons offer:

• Kimono Dressing: Assistance with dressing in a kimono.
• Traditional Japanese Hairstyling: Styling that adheres to traditional Japanese hairstyles.
• Nail Services: Additional beauty services such as nail care.

By understanding these aspects of communicating at a Japanese hair salon, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, even if you don't speak Japanese fluently.