How to Book a Barber in Japan: Real Tips from a Working Barber

A simple, stress-free guide to booking Japanese barbers — even if you don’t speak Japanese.

(Real Advice from a Working Barber in Japan)

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? Why Booking a Barber in Japan Feels Difficult

? Phone Reservations Are Still the Norm

Many barbershops in Japan mainly use phone reservations.
Foreign visitors often feel anxious:

• “I can’t understand Japanese.”
• “What if I explain it wrong?”
• “I’m nervous about calling.”

Barbers also feel nervous:

• “I can’t catch English pronunciation.”
• “Will the customer really come?”
• “What if my English doesn’t work?”

Only a small number of barbers can handle English over the phone.
Training is improving, but we’re still learning.

✔ Both sides feel nervous — that’s why phone booking feels difficult.

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? Automated Phone Systems Are Hard for Foreigners

Some shops use automated voice menus (“robot voice”).
For many foreigners, they sound like:

• Very fast Japanese
• Long sentences without pauses
• Hard-to-understand options

Most foreign customers tell me:
“Phone calls scare me. Online booking feels safer.”

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✅ The Easiest & Most Reliable Ways to Book in Japan

? Online Booking (Best for Foreigners)

Online booking is the most accurate and stress-free option.

• Easy even if you don’t read Japanese
• Choose your time without pressure
• Fewer mistakes
• Translation apps work perfectly

If you’re a traveler or a first-time visitor:
Online booking is the best choice.

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? Use Booking Apps & Websites

In Japan, the most common platforms are:

• HotPepper Beauty
• Rakuten Beauty
• Shop-specific booking forms

The process is simple:

Choose Time → Choose Menu → Choose Barber (if available)

Foreigners often read everything using a translation app,
so short, simple text is ideal.

Many booking systems also have a memo box:

• “No shave, haircut only.”
• “I may be 10 minutes late — first time here.”
• “Here’s my previous haircut photo.”

This helps a LOT.

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✍️ English That Japanese Barbers Understand Best

? Show Your Screen Instead of Speaking

Most Japanese barbers read English better than they understand spoken English.

Which means:

✔ You don’t need to speak.
✔ Just show your phone screen.
✔ That’s perfect communication.

Useful words every barber understands:

• Haircut only
• Full course
• Shave
• Credit card OK?
• More short / More long
• Today / Tomorrow
• At 3 pm OK?

In real experience:
“Show English” beats “Speak English” every time.

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? Universal Rules for Getting a Reservation

? Simple Principles That Work Anywhere

• Book the day before if possible
• Weekends fill up quickly
• If traveling, book right after arriving in Japan
• Online booking > phone booking
• Some shops show availability on Google Maps

Every shop is different,
so checking Google Maps or the official website is the safest method.

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? Summary — Booking in Japan Is Easy Once You Know the System

Foreigners struggle not because of English,
but because Japanese booking culture is simply different.

If you remember these points:

• Online > phone
• Show English > speak English
• Check availability beforehand
• Book early during travel

Your reservation will be smooth and stress-free.

We barbers truly want you to feel comfortable visiting us.
Honestly, the most painful moment is saying:

“I’m so sorry… we’re fully booked today.”

Please plan just a little earlier,
and enjoy the unique experience of a Japanese barbershop.

Let’s enjoy Japanese Barber Culture! ?✨