Nail Salons in Japan: A Haven for Beauty and Relaxation

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

  • 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.
Photo By Mylee

  • Gradients (グラデーション): Seamless blends of colors from one shade to another, creating a soft and romantic effect.
Photo By HotBeauty Pepper

  • Glitter and Rhinestones (ラメとラインストーン): Adding sparkle and dimension with glitter and rhinestones for special occasions.
Photo By HotBeauty Pepper

  • 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.
Photo By HotBeauty Pepper

  • Matte Finish (マット仕上げ): A modern and sophisticated twist on any nail design.
Photo By HotBeauty Pepper

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.
Photo By HotBeauty Pepper

  • 3D Nail Art (3Dネイルアート): Intricate designs built using acrylic or gel for a unique and eye-catching element.
Photo By Vogue Japan

  • Floral Designs (フローラルデザイン): Delicate floral motifs, often incorporating seasonal blooms and traditional Japanese flowers.
Photo By HotBeauty Pepper

  • Animal Prints (アニマルプリント): Bold and playful designs featuring animal prints like leopard, zebra, and cow.
Photo By HotBeauty Pepper

  • 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.
Photo By HotBeauty Pepper

English-Speaking Friendly Nail Salon

Nail Salon Tonic

Espoir

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!

Nail Cottage

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manikyuaManicure
ペディキュアpedikyuaPedicure
ジェルネイルjeru neiruGel nails
スカルプチュアsukarupuchuaAcrylic nails
フレンチfurenchiFrench tips
グラデーションgurēdeshonGradient
ラメlameGlitter
ラインアートrain ātoLine Art
花柄hanagaraFloral
チェック柄chekku garaCheckered
アニマル柄animaru garaAnimal print
キャラクターkyarakutāCharacter
3Dアートsuree di āto3D art
ネイルオフneiru ofuRemoval of gel or acrylic nails
ストーンsutonStones
ホログラムhoroguramuHologram
ハンドケアhando keaHand care
フットケアfutto keaFoot care
Useful Vocabulary At A Nail Salon

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.


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