Japan’s hair industry is divided into two main types of establishments: barbershops (理容室, "riyō-shitsu") and beauty salons (美容室, "biyō-shitsu"). These differ significantly in terms of target clientele, services provided, pricing, and overall experience.
Target Clients & Services
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Barbershops (理容室):
- Primarily serve men and children.
- Offer basic and practical services such as haircuts, shaving, and eyebrow trimming.
- Barbers specialize in men’s short hairstyles, traditional cuts, and facial grooming.
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Beauty Salons (美容室):
- Traditionally cater to women, but increasingly serve male clients as well.
- Provide a wide range of services including trendy haircuts, coloring, perming, updos, and makeup.
- Stylists are skilled in women’s long hairstyles, coloring, perming, and braiding.
Legal Qualifications
- Japanese law clearly distinguishes between barbers and beauticians, requiring separate national certifications for each. The range of services each can provide is regulated by law.
Shampooing Methods & Experience
- Barbershops usually use the "face-down" shampooing method, where clients lean forward. This is convenient for short hair and facial grooming.
- Beauty salons typically use the "face-up" (reclining) method, where clients lie back. This helps protect makeup and is better suited for long hair.
Pricing & Atmosphere
- Barbershops are generally less expensive, with simple interiors and efficient service.
- Beauty salons tend to be pricier, with elegant decor and more attentive, design-focused service.
Can Women Visit Barbershops?
- Most barbershops only accept men and children; female customers are often politely declined.
- Beauty salons are open to all genders and offer a broader range of services, making them ideal for those seeking styling and beauty treatments.
Summary
The main differences between men’s and women’s haircuts in Japan stem from the type of shop, services offered, and the overall experience. Men typically opt for barbershops, which provide quick and practical haircuts and shaving. Women usually choose beauty salons for more diverse, fashion-forward hair and beauty services. Recently, beauty salons have become more gender-inclusive, but barbershops still primarily serve male customers.
