Traveling to Japan often means exploring its bustling cities, historic temples, and delicious cuisine. But for those seeking a more personalized, cultural experience, trying on a kimono and mastering traditional beauty styles offers an authentic glimpse into Japanese heritage. This Yokohama-based experience combines nail art, hair styling, and kimono rental into a beautifully curated package that lets you feel like a true Japanese princess — all for just $67 per person.
What makes this experience special? First, you’ll love the variety of intricate Japanese nail art designs that are perfect for snapping memorable photos. Second, the luxurious Japanese-style hair updo offers a chance to see how traditional styles are created, complete with beautiful hair accessories to take home. Third, the option to rent and wear a kimono elevates your transformation, giving you the full cultural makeover in a relaxed, friendly setting. The only caveat? The timing and coordination can sometimes be tight if you’re trying to fit it into a busy schedule. This experience best suits those who crave a fun, immersive cultural activity, and who want to leave Yokohama with some fabulous photos and souvenirs.
Good To Know
- Authentic Japanese nail art with over 20 traditional patterns.
- Luxurious hair updo using natural hair and adorned with beautiful accessories.
- Kimono rental and dressing options available for extra culture.
- Take-home souvenirs, including hair accessories and jewelry.
- Affordable price considering the quality of services and memorable experience.
- Ideal for photo enthusiasts and travelers wanting a personalized cultural activity.
An Overview of the Experience
This Yokohama-based tour is centered around NAIL EDEN SALON, located just a short 3-minute walk from JR Kannai Station, making it easily accessible for visitors exploring the city. The experience typically involves a comprehensive makeover: from nail art that features traditional Japanese patterns and the opportunity to customize colors and jewelry, to a professional hair updo that employs natural hair styling techniques. For an additional cost, you can also rent a kimono and fully dress in traditional attire — perfect for photos or a visit to a shrine afterward.
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Nail Art: Traditional and Photogenic
The most eye-catching part of this experience is undoubtedly the Japanese nail art, which includes over 20 traditional and modern designs. Travelers can choose from patterns that showcase Japanese motifs, like sakura blossoms, cranes, or geometric shapes, all customizable with stones and jewelry to make each set unique. The service includes extensions and strengthening, making nails durable and beautiful — and since it involves extensions, it’s accessible even for those with ingrown nails or delicate cuticles.
One reviewer appreciated that the nail service was comprehensive enough to ensure nails looked stunning and lasted, making it a worthwhile investment. Many also mentioned how their nails looked Instagram-ready, with designs that stood out in photos and social media posts.
Hair Updo: Traditional Elegance
The hair styling involves creating a traditional Japanese updo, emphasizing volume and elegance. The stylist works with natural hair, making each style individualized. You can select from a variety of hair accessories, such as kanzashi (traditional hair ornaments), which add a luxurious touch. The stylist also provides a hair accessory as a souvenir, giving you a tangible memory of your transformation.
Some guests noted that the voluminous hair updo can make dressing in tight or open-front clothing easier, but those with very long or thick hair should communicate their needs in advance. The experience is designed to be Instagram-worthy, with ample opportunities for photos before or after the styling.
Kimono Rental and Dressing
For an extra 10,000 yen, you can rent a kimono to complete your look. The process involves dressing in traditional attire, perfect for photos or a gentle walk around Yokohama’s streets or shrines. The experience includes help in dressing if desired, but travelers are advised to wear clothing that opens at the front to facilitate the dressing process.
Guests are encouraged to bring comfortable footwear, especially if they plan to walk around after dressing in the kimono. Many reviews highlight the joy of wearing a kimono, with some saying it made their experience even more memorable. Note that if you choose to rent a yukata (summer kimono), bringing a slip as an undergarment is recommended since it helps with comfort and modesty.
More Great Tours NearbyWhat to Expect
The entire experience is thoughtfully curated to maximize both enjoyment and authenticity. Expect a relaxed, friendly atmosphere where skilled stylists and staff guide you through each step. The total duration can vary depending on your choices — generally about 2 to 3 hours.
Starting Point: You’ll meet at NAIL EDEN SALON, where you can settle in with a cup of tea and discuss your preferred designs and styles. Throughout, the staff are attentive and eager to help you customize your look.
Nail Service: You’ll select from a palette of colors and designs, then enjoy the process of receiving your Japanese nail art, which includes extensions and strengthening. The nail designs are crafted to be eye-catching and social-media friendly, making this a highlight for many visitors.
Hair Styling: Next, a professional stylist will craft your hair into a classic Japanese updo, adorned with accessories like kanzashi or decorative pins. The stylist ensures the style complements your face shape and outfit, and you’re encouraged to ask questions or request specific accessories.
Kimono Dressing: If you opt for kimono rental, the staff assist you in dressing in a traditional kimono, complete with obi belt and accessories. The dressing process is generally smooth and well-organized, with staff guiding even first-timers through the process.
Final Photos: After all the preparations, guests are usually eager to take photos. The experience is designed to be photogenic, so bringing a camera or smartphone is essential. Many reviews mention how their photos turned out stunning, with the traditional styles adding a regal, elegant touch.
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Practical Details & Tips
Booking in advance is highly recommended due to high demand, especially weekends and peak seasons. The experience is suitable for travelers aged 3 and above, but children under 3 or pregnant women might find it less suitable.
Comfortable shoes are advised, especially if you plan to wear the kimono outside afterward. The dressing process involves some standing, so wear clothing that opens at the front for ease.
Timing-wise, allocate about 2 to 3 hours for the full experience, which gives enough time for styling, dressing, and photos.
Cost considerations: At $67, this experience offers excellent value, given the inclusion of nail art, hair styling, and the option to rent a kimono. The additional 10,000 yen for kimono rental might seem steep, but it’s a worthwhile splurge if you want the full traditional look.
What to bring: Comfortable, open-front clothing, your camera or smartphone, comfortable shoes, and a positive attitude ready for a fun, cultural transformation.
Final Thoughts
This Yokohama experience offers a delightful way to celebrate Japanese culture through beauty and dress-up. It’s a perfect activity for travelers wanting to try traditional fashion, capture stunning photos, and enjoy a personalized treatment in a friendly local setting. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or part of a group, the attention to detail and the chance to take home your accessories make it a memorable investment.
The value for money is clear when you consider the quality of services and the opportunity to create lasting memories. The experience is especially suited for those who love photography, cultural activities, or simply want a playful way to connect with Japan’s traditional aesthetics.
While it may not be ideal for those with very tight schedules or very small children, it’s a fantastic pick for anyone looking to add an elegant, Instagram-worthy touch to their Yokohama trip.
FAQs
Is this experience suitable for children?
It’s generally suitable for children aged 3 and above, but very young children should be supervised as dressing in kimono and styling may take some time.
Can I book this experience for the same day?
Booking in advance is recommended to secure your preferred time, especially during busy periods.
What is included in the price?
The price covers nail art, a Japanese hair updo, and luxurious hair accessories. Kimono rental is an extra option.
Will I get to keep the hair accessories?
Yes, you can keep the hair accessory as a souvenir after the styling.
Do I need to bring anything?
Bring comfortable, front-opening clothing, a camera, and comfortable shoes for after the kimono dressing.
Is transportation included?
No, transportation to and from the salon is not included, so plan your route accordingly.
This experience combines culture with fun, stylish self-expression, perfect for making your Yokohama visit even more unforgettable.
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