A Guide to Getting a Massage in Japan

Whether you’re battling the stiffness from long hours at the office, traveling through Japan’s vibrant cities, or simply looking to unwind, a massage can be the perfect remedy. However, the process of getting a massage in Japan can feel a bit daunting. There are many types of massages to choose from, different booking methods, and a few customs that may be unfamiliar to newcomers. Don’t worry—this guide will help you make the most of Japan’s diverse and high-quality massage offerings.

Different Types of Massage Salons

When it comes to massage salons in Japan, you’ll come across two primary categories: riraku (リラク) and esute (エステ). Both offer distinct experiences that cater to different needs.

Riraku (リラク)

Riraku, short for “relaxation,” focuses on easing muscle tension and stress. These massages are aimed at helping you relax and recover from physical strain. Treatments are usually designed for pain relief, stress reduction, and overall relaxation.

Examples of treatments in Riraku salons:

• Swedish massage
• Shiatsu (pressure point therapy)
• Reflexology (foot massage)

Esute (エステ)

Esute, short for “aesthetic,” focuses on beauty and body treatments. Esute salons usually offer facials, slimming treatments, and skin therapies. These treatments aim to improve your appearance rather than provide relaxation or physical relief.

Examples of treatments in Esute salons:

• Body contouring
• Facial slimming
• Anti-aging treatments

While both offer massages, the experience is different depending on the salon. For stress relief and relaxation, go for riraku, while those looking for beauty enhancements should explore esute.

Popular Types of Massages in Japan

Hogushi (ほぐし) – Common Japanese Massage

This is one of the most common forms of massage in Japan. A hogushi massage focuses on relaxing the muscles by using gentle pressure and kneading techniques. It is non-invasive, and the client typically remains clothed during the session. Towels are often placed on the body to minimize direct skin contact.

Thai Massage (タイ古式マッサージ)

A traditional Thai massage involves stretching and deep-pressure techniques. Often referred to as “yoga for two,” it’s an interactive experience that helps relieve tension, improve flexibility, and enhance circulation.

Lymphatic Massage (リンパマッサージ)

Lymphatic drainage massages are designed to stimulate the lymphatic system, encouraging detoxification and reducing swelling. This type of massage uses gentle pressure to encourage the flow of lymph, a fluid that helps remove waste from the body.

Aromatherapy (アロマセラピー)

An aromatherapy massage uses essential oils that are believed to have healing properties. Clients typically remove their clothing and wear disposable undergarments. The oils used are carefully selected for their calming or invigorating effects.

Oil Treatment (オイルトリートメント)

Similar to aromatherapy, but without the use of scented oils, an oil treatment focuses on deep muscle relaxation and skin hydration. The therapist uses unscented oils like jojoba to help your skin absorb the benefits.

Acupuncture and Moxibustion (針灸)

Both acupuncture and moxibustion originate from traditional Chinese medicine and are designed to balance the body’s energy (qi). Acupuncture uses needles, while moxibustion involves burning herbs near the skin to stimulate specific points on the body.

Foot Massage (あしつぼ)

Reflexology, or ashi tsubo, targets pressure points on the feet that correspond to various organs and systems in the body. It is believed to improve overall health and stimulate circulation.

Chiropractic/Seitai (整体・カイロ)

Seitai and kairo are Japanese forms of chiropractic therapy aimed at aligning the spine and relieving pain in the neck and back. Many Japanese chiropractors focus on adjusting the hips to promote better body alignment.

Osteopathy (整骨)

Often confused with chiropractic care, seikotsu is a licensed medical treatment in Japan that focuses on restoring function to the musculoskeletal system. It is commonly recommended for those recovering from injuries or suffering from chronic pain.

Pricing Guide for Massages in Japan

The cost of a massage in Japan varies based on the type of treatment and the length of the session. Here’s a quick breakdown of common massage prices:

Type	Name in Japanese	Average Price per 60 Mins
hogushi	ほぐし	¥3,000
thai massage	タイ古式マッサージ	¥4,000 – ¥6,000
lymphatic massage	リンパマッサージ	¥4,000 – ¥6,000
aromatherapy	アロマセラピー	¥4,000 – ¥8,000
oil treatment	オイルトリートメント	¥4,000 – ¥8,000
acupuncture and moxibustion	針灸	¥5,000 – ¥8,000
foot massage	あしつぼ	¥3,000 – ¥6,000
chiropractice/seitai	整体・カイロ	¥4,500 – ¥8,000
osteopathy	整骨	¥4,000 – ¥8,000

Massages at spas or luxury hotels can cost significantly more, but they often include extra amenities such as access to hot springs, steam rooms, or other relaxation facilities.

How to Book a Massage in Japan

Booking a massage in Japan is easy once you know where to look. Here are some popular ways to reserve a massage session:

1. Hot Pepper Beauty

One of the most popular platforms for booking health and beauty services in Japan is Hot Pepper Beauty. This platform lets you search for salons by type of service, location, and available time slots. It’s primarily in Japanese, but it’s a convenient tool for those living in Japan.

2. Hotels and Ryokan

Many luxury hotels and traditional Japanese inns (ryokan) offer massage services. You can usually book through the hotel’s website or by contacting the front desk during your stay. The prices at these locations tend to be higher, but the convenience and the possibility of booking in English can make it worth the extra cost.

3. Spa Resorts

If you’re visiting an onsen (hot spring resort), many of them have massage packages that complement the relaxing soak. Check their websites for detailed information or inquire at the front desk upon arrival.

Massage Etiquette in Japan

While getting a massage in Japan is generally straightforward, there are a few etiquette tips to be aware of:

• Arrive on time: Punctuality is important in Japan, and it’s polite to arrive at least 5-10 minutes before your appointment.
• Tipping is not necessary: In Japan, tipping is not part of the culture, so you don’t need to tip your therapist. However, expressing gratitude with a polite “Arigatou gozaimasu” is always appreciated.
• Dress appropriately: Most massage salons will provide you with special clothing to wear during your session. If you’re receiving an oil or aromatherapy massage, you may be asked to change into disposable underwear.
• Communicate your needs: Don’t hesitate to communicate your preferences, such as pressure level or if you feel any discomfort during the massage. Learn a few key phrases to help make your session more enjoyable.

Happy Ending Massage?

According to sources, yes, they do exist. But a word of precaution: a friend who works as a masseuse tells me that every now and then, they get customers who assume the staff to be sex workers and of course, they boot them out of the place, or even call security when the situation calls for it. Because places that give happy endings don’t publicly advertise their “special” services, apparently, some customers assume they can get them anywhere. There are, however, a few ways to identify whether a salon is selling more than a massage:

• The type of massage they offer is not specified in the sign.
• The shop sign shows a suggestive photo.
• The prices are ridiculously high. (See the above table for regular prices.)
• The salon doesn’t have a website published on Google Maps
• The salon is located in one of the red-light districts.

Useful Japanese Vocabulary for Getting Massages

If you’re not fluent in Japanese, knowing a few key phrases can make your massage experience smoother.

Word/Phrase	Meaning
utsubuse (うつぶせ)	lie on your stomach
aomuke (仰向け)	lie on your back
kubi (首)	neck
kata (肩)	shoulders
senaka (背中)	back
te (手)	hand
ashi (足)	foot
ashiura(足裏)	sole of foot
fukurahagi (脹脛)	calf
momo (もも)	thigh
serapisuto (セラピスト)	therapist
Tsuyosa wa daijoubu desu ka? (強さは大丈夫ですか？)	Is the pressure okay?
Motto tsuyoku shite kudasai (もっと強くしてください)	Please apply more pressure.
Chotto itai desu (ちょっと痛いです)	It’s a bit painful.

What to Expect: A Typical Flow When Visiting a Japanese Massage Salon

Visiting a massage salon in Japan is not only a relaxing experience but also one that runs smoothly thanks to the country’s attention to detail and hospitality. If you’re visiting a massage salon for the first time, here’s a step-by-step guide to what you can expect during your visit, from booking to post-massage tea.

1. Booking Your Appointment

Before visiting the salon, you’ll need to decide on the type and duration of your massage. This is typically done during the booking process, either online via platforms like Hot Pepper Beauty or directly at the salon. Be sure to specify the massage type (such as hogushi or aromatherapy) and the length of the session (usually 60 to 90 minutes).

2. Arrival at the Salon

Upon arriving at the massage salon, you’ll be greeted by the staff. In many salons, you’ll find a pair of slippers prepared for you at the entrance. Be sure to take off your shoes and put on the slippers.

3. Confirming Your Appointment

Once inside, tell the staff your name and the time of your booking. Before the massage begins, the staff will reconfirm the details of your reservation to ensure there are no misunderstandings. This includes the type of massage, its duration, and any additional treatments you may have requested.

At this point, depending on the salon’s policy, you may be asked to pay for the session either before or after the massage.

4. Choosing Aromatherapy Oils (If Applicable)

If you’ve opted for an aromatherapy massage, the therapist will present a selection of essential oils for you to choose from. The different oils often have specific effects—some promote relaxation, while others help energize or detoxify the body. Feel free to ask the therapist about each oil’s properties if you’re unsure which to pick.

5. Changing and Preparing for the Massage

Once the booking and payment details are confirmed, the therapist will lead you to a private room where your massage will take place. In the room, you’ll typically find a basket to store your clothes and personal belongings. Depending on the type of massage, you’ll either be given loose-fitting clothes to change into (for massages like hogushi or Thai massage) or disposable undergarments (for oil or aromatherapy treatments).

The therapist will leave the room to give you privacy while you change. Once changed, you will usually be asked to lie face-down on the massage table, and a towel will be draped over your body for modesty and warmth.

6. Discussing Your Tension Points

Before the massage begins, the therapist will likely ask you which part of your body feels the most tired or tense. This is where knowing a few key Japanese phrases can come in handy:

• Kata ga tsukarete imasu (肩が疲れています) – My shoulders are tired.
• Senaka ga itai desu (背中が痛いです) – My back hurts.

Referring to the vocabulary table above can help you communicate your preferences more clearly.

7. The Massage Session

Now that everything is confirmed, the therapist will begin the massage. Throughout the session, don’t hesitate to speak up if you feel discomfort or want the pressure adjusted. You can say:

• Tsuyosa wa daijoubu desu ka? (強さは大丈夫ですか？) – Is the pressure okay?
• Motto tsuyoku shite kudasai (もっと強くしてください) – Please apply more pressure.
• Chotto itai desu (ちょっと痛いです) – It’s a bit painful.

8. Finishing the Massage

When the massage is complete, the therapist will often say, “Otsukaresama deshita” (お疲れ様でした), which translates to “Thank you for your hard work” or “You must be tired.” This is a polite way to let you know that the massage has ended. The therapist will then leave the room, giving you time to change back into your clothes.

9. Post-Massage Relaxation and Payment

After you’ve changed, you can head back to the reception area. Some salons offer a complimentary cup of herbal tea to help you unwind further after your session. If you haven’t already settled your bill, this is also the time to do so.

Pro tip: It’s common for Japanese massage salons not to expect tips. A simple arigatou gozaimasu (ありがとうございます, thank you) is enough to show your appreciation.

10. Leaving the Salon

Once everything is taken care of, the staff will thank you again and guide you back to the entrance, where you’ll change from your slippers back into your shoes. You’ll leave the salon feeling refreshed, relaxed, and ready to take on the day—or wind down for a well-earned rest.

FAQ

For relaxation, many people opt for a hogushi or aromatherapy massage. Both are gentle and designed to relieve stress and tension, making them ideal for unwinding after a long day.

Yes, many massage salons in Japan, particularly in major cities like Tokyo, offer services in English or have English-speaking staff. Hotels and spa resorts are also more likely to cater to non-Japanese speakers.

Tipping is not part of Japanese culture, so there’s no need to tip your therapist. Simply say “thank you” (arigatou gozaimasu) when the session is over.

Most relaxation massages in Japan will provide you with loose, comfortable clothing to wear. For oil or aromatherapy treatments, you may be asked to wear disposable undergarments provided by the salon.

While some places accept walk-ins, it’s recommended to make a reservation, especially at popular salons and hotels. Using platforms like Hot Pepper Beauty can make the booking process easier.

Leave the Salon Refreshed

With this guide, you’ll be well-prepared for your massage experience in Japan. Whether you’re looking for relaxation or something more specialized, there’s a perfect treatment waiting for you! Enjoy the ultimate form of relaxation during your time in Japan.