Welcome to Japanese Barber – Your Guide to Getting a Haircut in Japan

Introduction – Why This Guide Will Help You

Thinking about getting a haircut in Japan?
If it’s your first time, you might feel unsure:

• “How do I book an appointment?”
• “Will the barber understand my style?”
• “What should I say in English or Japanese?”

Don’t worry.
As a Japanese barber with over 20 years of experience,
I’ve helped hundreds of overseas clients feel comfortable and enjoy their haircut here.

This guide will make your first visit smooth, stress-free, and even memorable.

Let’s get started. 💈

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What Makes Japanese Barbers Unique?

Precision and Attention to Detail

Japanese barbers are known for extremely precise cutting.
We focus on:

• clean lines
• balanced shape
• small adjustments
• checking from multiple angles

Even 1–2 mm can change the look, so we take great care.

Politeness and Clear Communication

Service in Japan often includes:

• polite greetings
• careful listening
• confirming details
• gentle explanations

Even if your English is simple, we will try our best to understand you.

Relaxing Shampoo & Hospitality Culture

Many travelers say:
“Japanese shampoo is on another level!”

Massage-like hand movements, warm water control, and relaxing rhythm…
This is part of Japanese omotenashi (hospitality).
You’ll feel refreshed both physically and mentally.

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How to Make a Reservation in Japan (Basic Overview)

Booking styles depend on the shop.
Here are the three main methods:

1. Online Booking (Most Reliable)

Many barbershops use a website or reservation system.
You can choose:

• date
• time
• menu
• barber

Very convenient if you don’t speak Japanese.

2. Phone Call (Reliable but may be difficult)

You can call the shop directly.
However, the staff may speak limited English.

Simple English is OK:
“Hello, can I make a reservation at 3pm today?”

3. Walk-In (Easiest but not always available)

Just enter the shop and ask:
“Do you have time now?”

But popular shops may be fully booked.

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Avoiding Miscommunication at the Barber

Communication is the key to a great haircut.

Bring Reference Photos

Photos are the most powerful tool.
Show:

• front
• side
• back

It removes 80% of misunderstandings.

Use Simple English

Short phrases work best:

• “Short on sides”
• “Natural on top”
• “Keep the length”

We understand these perfectly.

Be Clear About Length

In Japan, we often ask:

• “How many centimeters on top?”
• “What clipper number on the sides?”

Being specific helps a LOT.

Avoid “I leave it to you” (Dangerous!)

In Japanese culture、「おまかせ」 means
“Please create your best style based on your taste.”

But foreigners often want a specific style.
So unless you really trust the barber, avoid this.

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What You Should Tell the Barber (Checklist)

When explaining your haircut, use this easy checklist:

• Top: keep / shorten / how many cm?
• Sides: fade? taper? clipper number?
• Back: natural / clean / square / round
• Fringe (bangs): up / down / natural
• Volume: natural / reduce bulk
• Beard or face shave: yes / no

If you don’t know the words, photos solve everything.

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Useful English Phrases You Can Use

Here are simple, natural phrases every traveler can use:

• “Short on the sides, a little longer on top.”
• “Please keep the shape, just shorten.”
• “Can you reduce the volume?”
• “Not too short, please.”
• “I want it clean around the ears.”
• “Can you trim my beard?”
• “Can you shave my neckline clean?”

For shampoo:

• “Warm water is OK.”
• “You can apply strong pressure.”
• “Soft pressure please.”

For finishing:

• “Can I see the back?”
• “Looks great, thank you!”

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Summary – Your First Haircut in Japan Will Be Easy

Now you understand:

• the basics of Japanese barbers
• how to communicate clearly
• how to avoid miscommunication
• what to say during your haircut

You’re ready for a smooth and enjoyable experience.

👉 👉 “Click here to read Part 2!”How to Make a Reservation in Japan (Part 2: Practical Guide)

Let’s Barber!! 💈✨