Finding a hair salon in Japan can feel impossible for expats — but it doesn’t have to be. Here’s what trips people up, and how you can avoid those mistakes and walk out happy.
Moving to a new country is hard enough — but when you throw haircuts into the mix, things get complicated fast.
I’ve been there: you walk into a salon expecting a simple trim, but walk out feeling like your hair has been hacked off or styled into something you never asked for.
For many expats in Japan, this frustration isn’t just about bad luck — it’s about misunderstanding a system that’s different from what they’re used to.
🛑 The Most Common Mistakes Expats Make When Choosing a Hair Salon in Japan
1. Not Doing Enough Research
Walking into the first salon you see without checking reviews or getting recommendations is a gamble. Many salons vary widely in style, quality, and experience with foreigners.
2. Relying Only on Language Skills
Assuming that limited Japanese or pointing to a vague phrase like “a little off the top” will get the job done often backfires. Communication is key, and misinterpretations happen.
3. Ignoring Local Trends and Salon Culture
Japanese salons have their own style culture. What you think of as “messy” or “casual” might be interpreted very differently, leading to surprises.
🔑 How You Can Avoid These Mistakes and Find Your Perfect Salon
1. Ask Around in Your Community
Fellow expats, coworkers, or neighbors can be gold mines for salon recommendations. They’ve been through the trial and error.
2. Use Visual References Like Photos or Videos
Bring clear pictures from magazines, Instagram, or even screenshots from movies. It’s the universal language your stylist will understand.
3. Learn Some Basic Japanese Phrases About Haircuts
Even simple phrases like “少しだけ切ってください” (Please cut just a little) or “前髪を整えてください” (Please trim my bangs) can make a huge difference.
4. Start With Salons Known for Serving Foreigners
Certain salons advertise English-speaking staff or cater specifically to foreigners and diverse hair types.
✂️ My Journey From Haircut Horror to Haircut Hero
After several bad experiences, I shifted my approach.
I started asking locals for recommendations, carried a folder of photos to every appointment, and practiced a few Japanese phrases.
Now, I’ve found a salon where I’m understood, respected, and leave feeling confident.
💡 Final Thoughts
Finding the right hair salon in Japan isn’t about luck — it’s about preparation, communication, and local insight.
Avoid the common mistakes, and you’ll find a stylist who gets you.
Because your hair is more than just style — it’s how you show up to the world.
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