Japan is renowned for its meticulous attention to detail and dedication to beauty. This extends beyond fashion and makeup to the world of nail art, where Japanese nail salons have become a global sensation. From intricate designs to impeccable service, these salons offer an experience unlike any other. This blog will guide you on what nail salons to visit in Tokyo and provide useful phrases and vocabulary.
A Quick Jump To…
- Classic Designs In Japan
- Trendy Designs In Japan
- English-Speaking Friendly Nail Salon
- Useful Phrases and Vocabulary At A Nail Salon
- Websites and Apps For Discounts
- Tips for Navigating Your Japanese Nail Salon Visit
- FAQ
Classic Designs In Japan
- French Tips (フレンチネイル): A timeless design with a neutral base and white tips for a clean and elegant look.
- Gradients (グラデーション): Seamless blends of colors from one shade to another, creating a soft and romantic effect.
- Glitter and Rhinestones (ラメとラインストーン): Adding sparkle and dimension with glitter and rhinestones for special occasions.
- One-Color Designs (ワンカラーデザイン): Simple yet chic, applying a single color to all nails for a polished and understated look.
- Matte Finish (マット仕上げ): A modern and sophisticated twist on any nail design.
Trendy Designs In Japan
- Character Art (キャラクターアート): Meticulously recreated popular anime characters, manga illustrations, and even video game icons on nails.
- 3D Nail Art (3Dネイルアート): Intricate designs built using acrylic or gel for a unique and eye-catching element.
- Floral Designs (フローラルデザイン): Delicate floral motifs, often incorporating seasonal blooms and traditional Japanese flowers.
- Animal Prints (アニマルプリント): Bold and playful designs featuring animal prints like leopard, zebra, and cow.
- Marble and Gemstone Designs (マーブルと宝石のデザイン): Mimicking the patterns and textures of natural stones for a luxurious and elegant touch.
English-Speaking Friendly Nail Salon
Nail Salon Tonic
- Location: 東京都渋谷区3丁目12-12 祐ビル 1階 OASIS RESORT SPA内
- Opening Hours: Mon-Sun 10:30~21:20
- Service Menu and Price
- Socials
- Online Reservation Link
- English-speaking staff available
Espoir
- Location: 東京都渋谷区道玄坂1-15-10 道玄坂1ハイツ 7F
- Opening Hours: Mon-Fri 11:00~22:00 | Sat & Sun 10:00~22:00
- Service Menu and Price
- Socials
- Online Reservation Link
- English-speaking staff available
Nail Salon PINKY
- Location: Address provided on appointment at Shibuya
- Opening Hours: Mon-Sun 11:00~20:00
- TEL:03-6427-4403
- Service Menu and Price
- Socials
- English-speaking staff available
Hi Nails!
- Location: 東京都渋谷区代官山町16−1カステイヨ代官山501号室
- Opening Hours: Mon-Sun 11:00~22:20 | Tues Closed
- Service Menu and Price
- Socials
- Online Reservation Link
- English-speaking staff available
Nail Cottage
- Location: Find the nearest location to you here
- Opening Hours: Mon-Fri 10:00~20:00 | Sat 10:00~19:00 | Sun Closed
- Service Menu and Price
- Socials
- Online Reservation Link
- English-speaking staff available
Useful Phrases and Vocabulary At A Nail Salon
- 予約できますか? yoyaku dekimasu ka. – Can I make a reservation?
- ジェルネイルをしたいんですが。jeru neiru o shitain desuga. – I would like to get gel nails.
- このデザインでお願いします。kono dezain de onegaishimasu. – I would like this design, please.
- グラデーションネイルをしてください。Gurēdeshon neiru o shite kudasai. – Please do a gradient nail design for me.
- ラメを少し入れてください。Rame o sukoshi irete kudasai. – Please add a little glitter.
- このストーンをつけてください。Kono sutōn o tsuite kudasai. -Please put on this stone.
- ラインアートで花柄にしてください。Rain āto de hanagara ni shite kudasai. – Please do a floral design with line art.
- オフしてください。Ofu shite kudasai. – Please remove my nails.
- もう少し短くしてください。mou sukoshi mijikaku shite kudasai. – Please make them a little shorter.
- もっと長めにしてください。motto nagame ni shite kudasai. – Please make them longer.
- ハンドケアをお願いします。hando kea o onegaishimasu. – I would like hand care, please.
マニキュア | manikyua | Manicure |
ペディキュア | pedikyua | Pedicure |
ジェルネイル | jeru neiru | Gel nails |
スカルプチュア | sukarupuchua | Acrylic nails |
フレンチ | furenchi | French tips |
グラデーション | gurēdeshon | Gradient |
ラメ | lame | Glitter |
ラインアート | rain āto | Line Art |
花柄 | hanagara | Floral |
チェック柄 | chekku gara | Checkered |
アニマル柄 | animaru gara | Animal print |
キャラクター | kyarakutā | Character |
3Dアート | suree di āto | 3D art |
ネイルオフ | neiru ofu | Removal of gel or acrylic nails |
ストーン | suton | Stones |
ホログラム | horoguramu | Hologram |
ハンドケア | hando kea | Hand care |
フットケア | futto kea | Foot care |
Websites and Apps For Discounts
Several websites and apps can help you find affordable hair salons in Japan:
HotPepper Beauty: This popular website allows you to search for salons by location, price, and service. Many salons offer online bookings and coupons. Find the salon you want to visit here and find out if they offer coupons! You can also use the points you collected to deduct the price.
Tips for Navigating Your Japanese Nail Salon Visit
- Make an appointment: Due to their popularity, many salons require reservations, especially for weekend appointments.
- Research popular designs: Browse online to get an idea of the styles that appeal to you.
- Bring photos or descriptions of your desired nail design: This will help the nail artist understand your vision.
- Learn some basic Japanese phrases: This will help you communicate your preferences to the nail artist. Coto is always here to help!
- Ask about the price before you get your nails done: This will help avoid any surprises at checkout.
- Be prepared for a longer appointment: Japanese nail art takes time and precision, so expect to spend at least an hour or two in the salon.
- Relax and enjoy the experience: Let the skilled hands of the nail artist work their magic while you soak in the tranquil atmosphere.
You Might Be Wondering…
Do I need to make an appointment?
Yes, it is highly recommended to make an appointment, especially if you want a specific design or service.
How much does it cost to get your nails done in Japan?
Prices can vary depending on the salon, services, and design complexity. Basic gel nails can cost around ¥5,000, while intricate designs with additional embellishments can cost upwards of ¥10,000.
Do I need to tip the nail artist?
Tipping is not customary in Japan.
Can I speak English at a Japanese nail salon?
While some salons may have staff who speak English, it is best to be prepared to communicate in basic Japanese. This will ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.