When traveling in Japan, you may find yourself rushing from place to place—trying to absorb its rich heritage, breathtaking nature, pop culture hotspots, and internationally renowned cuisine in what feels like the blink of an eye.
Well, what if we told you there was a way to incorporate wellness into your trip without sacrificing your desire to explore? Actually, Japan is filled with experiences that encourage you to slow down, like hot spring baths and tea ceremonies. Today, we’re going to focus exclusively on Japanese head spas.
If you follow beauty trends, you have likely come across this specialty treatment. In short, a Japanese head spa is a multi-step cleansing and nourishing process that prioritizes scalp health, hair health, and overall mental relaxation. It is so much more than simply a trip to the salon. It is an hour to two-hour rejuvenation of the mind and body. At the end of the session, you will feel utterly refreshed and ready to show Japan the new you.
In this article, we will define a Japanese head spa, review the typical process, share the results and benefits, cover average prices, and list spa facilities in Japan that are tourist friendly—including Japanese head spas in Tokyo. Let’s begin.
What is a Japanese head spa?
Firstly, there are two types of Japanese head spas: dry and wet. A dry head spa does not use any water and mainly focuses on massaging. In this article, we will solely be looking at wet Japanese head spas and, hereinafter, any mention of a head spa refers to a wet head spa.
So, a Japanese head spa, often called a ヘッドスパ in Japanese, is a Japan-born practice that includes a thorough cleanse of the scalp, a scalp massage to promote blood flow, and the use of additional products to improve scalp health. The massage is uniquely designed to hit pressure points that increase blood circulation in the scalp and thus, promote hair growth. It also helps loosen tight muscles in the head, face, and neck.
A head spa can furthermore be broken into four categories: carbonated, oil, cream, or cleansing. These types reflect the products used. For instance, salons usually recommend carbonated head spas for people with a lot of buildup on the scalp and cream-based head spas for people with dry skin. After your initial consultation, the salon will usually recommend the products best suited for your hair and scalp health.
Ambient elements—such as aromatherapy, cozy furniture, and peaceful music—are typically intertwined in the experience, creating a tranquil space where you can embrace total relaxation.
What are the steps of a Japanese head spa?
A Japanese head spa session typically takes between one to two hours; however, some salons offer longer plans, lasting three or even 3.5 hours. Although not all head spa experiences are exactly the same, they roughly follow the same process. Please note the steps listed below may be in a different order depending on the salon.
- First, you will meet with a hair therapist to discuss your hair habits and any scalp concerns, such as itchiness or dandruff. Many facilities use a microscope to analyze your scalp in detail. You will be able to see incredibly up-close views of any buildup or residue on your head. If you suffer from any scalp conditions, such as psoriasis, now would be the time to mention them.
- Next, the therapist will exfoliate and massage your scalp, being sure to stimulate pressure points. This step also ensures that nutrients applied to the scalp and hair can reach the hair follicles more easily.
- Afterwards, the therapist will apply a steam treatment to further enhance the absorption of nutrients, as well as unclog pores and follicles on the scalp.
- Next, they will deep cleanse your hair and scalp.
- At the end, the therapist will revisit your scalp with a microscope. The difference is often jaw dropping!
- Depending on the salon, the session may also include a blowout at the end.
What are the benefits of a Japanese head spa?
At its core, a Japanese head spa is a treatment for the scalp, which is the foundation of hair health. It exfoliates the scalp, removes excess oils and debris, and strengthens hair follicles. These practices, coupled with the massage, can help restore damaged hair and promote hair growth. The massage may also stimulate lymphatic drainage and has the potential to ease headaches and tension in your neck and shoulders, as well as lift your face. Afterwards, your scalp will feel exceptionally light and clean, and your hair will have a soft, silky texture.
Aside from the physical benefits, Japanese head spas are also known to relieve stress, elevate mood, and provide mental clarity.
These effects typically last one to two weeks, and to see continued results, salons recommend that you have a head spa once a month.
How much does a Japanese head spa cost in Japan?
Prices for Japanese head spas depend on the services offered and the duration of the sessions. In general, 60 to 110-minute plans cost between ¥15,000 and ¥20,000. Longer sessions, spanning 120 to 210 minutes, can cost between ¥20,000 and ¥50,000. Please note that these prices are largely based on salons in Tokyo that cater to foreign tourists.
Since these salons can fill up quickly, be sure to book your spot in advance.
Where can I experience a Japanese head spa in Japan?
As the birthplace of Japanese head spas, Japan has no shortage of salons that offer this service. If you are worried about language barriers, let us ease your anxieties. While the beginning of the experience does usually include a consultation, most of the session is wordless. When communication is needed, tourist-friendly salons have staff who know basic English and/or utilize translation tools. They are friendly and more than willing to accommodate any language differences, ensuring that this relaxing experience does not invite any anxieties.
Listed below are salons in Japan that offer Japanese head spas with English support.
| Salon | Location(s) |
|---|---|
| |
| Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto |
| |
| Shibuya, Tokyo |
| Chuo City, Tokyo |
| Shibuya, Tokyo |
| |
| |
| Minato City, Tokyo |
See what this trend is all about for yourself!
A Japanese head spa is a unique experience that provides the perfect balance of high-end hair care and mental refreshment. With the busyness of travel and everyday life, a Japanese head spa is something you can give yourself. It’s a moment of peace rooted in beauty. And at the end, you are left with a happy scalp and an even happier smile.
