How to Book a Hair Salon in Japan: Step-by-Step Guide for Foreigners

Booking a hair salon in Japan as a foreigner is more straightforward than it might seem — but there are important differences from booking in most other countries. Here’s exactly how to do it.

Step 1: Find the Right Salon First

Don’t book before you’ve confirmed the salon has genuine experience with your hair type. This is the most common mistake foreigners make. How to identify the right salon →

Step 2: Send a Photo Before Booking

Before making any booking, send a photo via Instagram DM, WhatsApp, LINE, or WeChat. Include: current length, natural texture, chemical history. The quality of the response tells you everything about the stylist’s experience level.

Step 3: Confirm the Consultation Language

“English OK” means different things at different salons. Confirm that the actual consultation — not just the booking — will be in English. A chemical treatment consultation conducted entirely in Japanese, with you nodding along, is a genuine risk.

Step 4: Confirm What’s Included in the Price

Japanese salon pricing is usually transparent. Confirm upfront: Is shampoo included? Is blowdry included? For chemical treatments, is the price all-in or base-only?

Step 5: Book With Plenty of Notice

Good private salons in Tokyo often book 1–3 weeks out. If you want a specific date — especially around rainy season or summer — contact well in advance.

Step 6: Confirm 24 Hours Before

A quick confirmation message the day before is appreciated in Japanese professional culture and prevents miscommunication.

How to Book Kenji Hair Lounge

Send a photo via Instagram DM or WhatsApp. I’ll respond with an honest assessment, a price estimate, and available dates. No forms, no waiting rooms. Japanese salon etiquette guide →

🕙 Yokohama: Every Monday + 1st & 3rd Thursday · 8:30–18:30 · Tue–Fri 20:00–23:30 · Tokyo (Ginza): Tue–Sun + 2nd & 4th Thursday · 8:30–18:30