[Perfect for first-time visitors to Japan.
A working Japanese barber explains how both talking and staying quiet are completely welcomed in Japanese barbershop culture.]

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【Introduction】

“Are Japanese barbers quiet?”
“Should I talk while getting a haircut?”
“Is it rude if I just stay silent?”

These are some of the most common questions I receive from foreign customers getting their first haircut in Japan.

Here’s the simple truth:

? Talking or staying quiet — both are perfectly OK.
You can choose the style that feels comfortable for you.

In this article, I’ll explain how conversation works in Japanese barbershops, based on my real daily experience as a barber.

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【H2】Why Japanese barbers seem quiet (and what it really means)

Compared to Western barbershops, Japanese barbershops often feel calm and peaceful.
This comes from cultural habits such as:

• Quiet time is considered a form of hospitality
• Barbers value concentration and precision
• We try not to disturb your relaxation

So remember:
? Quiet doesn’t mean unfriendly — it often means “we are being considerate.”

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【H2】The “Not this question again…” moment

Many foreign visitors tell me:

“I’ve been asked this everywhere today!”

Typical questions include:

• “Where are you from?”
• “Sightseeing or business?”
• “How long will you stay in Japan?”

These are friendly, safe conversation starters for Japanese people,
but foreigners sometimes hear them so often that they start to feel repeated.

Still — please don’t worry.
These questions are never meant to be rude.
They come from a sincere intention to get to know you.

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【H2】How to know if your barber wants to talk (or prefers quiet)

Just like customers, barbers also have different communication styles.

【H3】Signs your barber is open to talking

• They ask small questions
• They make eye contact often
• Their reactions are big and friendly
• They start conversation about Japan

【H3】Signs your barber will keep it quiet

• Short, simple replies
• Calm eyes (looking at the mirror or focusing on the cut)
• You close your eyes during the cut
• Conversation doesn’t continue naturally
• They seem a bit shy or nervous

Both styles are normal.
? Japanese barbers adjust the distance based on your reactions.

Just one thing:
Please be clear about your hairstyle length or menu — that part helps avoid misunderstandings.

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【H2】Easy topics that Japanese barbers love

These topics almost always bring smiles and easy conversation:

【H3】① Japanese Food

• Ramen
• Izakaya
• Yakitori
• Convenience store food
  Food always creates a fun atmosphere.

【H3】② Anime & Manga

A global language today.

• Dragon Ball
• Jujutsu Kaisen
• ONE PIECE
• NARUTO
• Slam Dunk

Many stylists (including me!) also enjoy deeper or niche anime.

【H3】③ Japanese Culture & City Life

• Onsen
• Festivals
• Shrines
• Arcades
• Umeda / Dotonbori

Talking about where you visited is always welcome.

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【H2】Topics best avoided

Some subjects may create discomfort or confusion:

• Politics
• Religion
• Safety / crime / international conflicts
• Personal or family problems
• Negative comments about Japan or your own country

Japan is a culture that values harmony,
so avoiding these helps keep the experience pleasant for everyone.

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【H2】How to say “I want to talk” or “I prefer quiet”

The easiest way is to show the message on your phone (translation apps work great).

If you want to talk:

• “It’s OK to talk while cutting.”
• “I’d like to chat a little.”

If you prefer quiet:

• “I’d like a quiet experience today.”
• “I want to relax, so quiet is nice.”

In Japan, your preference is always respected.

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【H2】? Pro Tip: Use short, simple English

Short words are easiest for Japanese people to understand:

• I like ramen.
• I like anime, Dragon Ball.
• Very delicious sushi!
• I want to go to Izakaya.

This style helps conversation grow naturally.

Example:

You: “I like ramen.”
Barber: “Me too! I love ramen!”

You: “Sushi is very delicious.”
Barber: “Yes! And Japanese sake is great!”

? Let’s enjoy “Short-Word Talk”!

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【H2】A barber’s honest feelings

With foreign customers, conversations about
food, cities, anime, travel, and games
are incredibly fun for us too.

At the same time:

“We don’t want to make you uncomfortable…”

This feeling makes us careful not to talk too much.
So we watch your reactions and adjust the distance slowly.

Recently, I even had a great chat about
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom on Nintendo Switch —
a beautiful game that “steals your time” in the best way.

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【H2】Conclusion: Choose your ideal conversation distance

In Japanese barbershops:

• Talking is OK
• Silence is OK
• Your pace is always respected

Enjoy the haircut, enjoy the moment,
and enjoy the unique Japanese hospitality.

I wrote this article so both you and your barber
can share a more comfortable and enjoyable time together.

Let’s enjoy Japanese Barber Culture! ?✨