Quick Answer
In Japan, “Same as last time” usually doesn’t work.
To be more precise
it often creates a misunderstanding without you realizing it.
But don’t worry.
With just a few simple words, you can make your request much clearer.
The Situation
You sit down.
You make eye contact in the mirror.
“How would you like your haircut?”
You think for a moment and say:
“Same as last time.”
—A brief pause.
The haircut starts,
but something feels off.
“Did they really understand me?”
And when it’s done, you think:
“…This isn’t exactly what I expected.”
Why “Same as Last Time” Doesn’t Work
The reason is simple.
👉 Your “last time” is not shared.
In many Japanese barbershops:
- You may not have the same barber every time
- Detailed haircut records are not always kept
- Even if there are notes, the nuance is often missing
So—
your idea of “last time” and the barber’s understanding don’t match.
Another Reason for Misunderstanding
There’s another layer.
👉 Vague expressions don’t translate well.
For example:
- “A little shorter”
- “Same as before”
Even between Japanese people, these can be interpreted differently.
Add a language barrier—and
the gap becomes even bigger.
So What Should You Say Instead?
Simple.
👉 Don’t say “same”—say something slightly more specific.
Simple Phrases That Work
You don’t need complicated English.
Try these:
- “Same length as before.”
- “Just a little shorter.”
- “Keep the top, clean the sides.”
It doesn’t have to be perfect—just a little more specific makes a big difference.
If You Want Better Accuracy
You can add one more helpful detail:
“It’s been about X weeks since my last haircut.”
This gives your barber a better reference point.
The Best Way to Avoid Mistakes
If you want to be safe:
- Show a photo
- Add one short sentence
Example:
“This, but not too short on top.”
👉 Photo + one sentence = best result
And there’s one more thing worth knowing — something most people never think about.
Barbers Are Nervous Too
This part is often overlooked — but it changes how you see the whole situation.
Because barbers are nervous too.
- They don’t want to make a mistake
- But they may not have the English to ask detailed questions
So when you say “Same,”
👉 it can actually make things harder for them.
Be Careful If You’re This Type of Person
- You are very particular about your haircut
- You always go to the same barber back home
- You tend to skip explanations
In Japan, skipping details increases the risk of misunderstanding.
Summary
“Same as last time” is convenient—
but in Japan, it can be risky.
Instead:
- Be slightly more specific
- Use simple words
- Show a photo if possible
One small trick: when you’re tempted to say “Same as last time,” just name one thing you want to keep. That alone can dramatically reduce misunderstandings.
👉 You don’t need perfect English. You just need simple words.
Now you’re ready.
Let’s BARBER!! 💈
(Internal Links)
→ How to Ask for a Fade in Japan (Simple English Guide)
→ Why Showing a Photo to Your Barber Doesn’t Always Work
コメント