Imagine stepping into the role of a Japanese princess for a day—getting a traditional hair updo, luxurious nail art, and even donning a kimono. In Yokohama, this delightful experience combines beauty, culture, and a sprinkle of Instagram-worthy flair, all for around $67 per person. Located just a short stroll from JR Kannai Station, Nail Eden Salon offers a well-organized, authentic, and fun way to explore Japanese aesthetics firsthand.
What we love most is the attention to detail—the carefully curated nail patterns that range from subtle to striking, and the beautiful hair accessories that you get to take home as souvenirs. Plus, the option to rent and wear a kimono elevates this experience from simple beauty treatment to a full culture.
The only potential consideration? The experience involves a fair bit of preparation, like washing your hair the day before if you want the traditional Japanese hair updo, so it might require some planning. But if you’re looking for a memorable, hands-on way to connect with Japanese style—this is perfect for those who love beauty, culture, and capturing stunning photos.
This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy personal beauty rituals, cultural dress-up, and want to create unique memories or social media content. It’s a fantastic choice for solo travelers, couples, or small groups eager for an authentic, hands-on cultural experience.
Key Points
- Authentic Japanese beauty: Experience traditional hair and nail art customized to your style.
- Cultural immersion: Rent a kimono for a full Japanese dress-up experience.
- Customization options: Choose from ~20 nail designs, colors, stones, and jewelry.
- Souvenir value: Take home your hair accessories and enjoy memorable photos.
- Convenient location: Just 3-minute walk from JR Kannai Station in Yokohama.
- Value for money: For $67, you get a comprehensive beauty and cultural experience.
An In-Depth Look at the Yokohama Nail and Kimono Experience
Planning more time in Yokohama? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
The Setting and Location
Starting at NAIL EDEN SALON, conveniently located near Yokohama’s JR Kannai Station, this experience is easy to access. The salon’s clean, welcoming atmosphere sets the tone for what’s to come—an indulgent escape into Japanese beauty traditions. The location’s proximity makes it easy to combine with sightseeing, whether you want to explore nearby Chinatown or head to the waterfront after your appointment.
The Nail Art Experience
This isn’t just a quick polish. You have the chance to select from over 20 traditional Japanese nail art designs, many inspired by classic motifs like sakura blossoms, cranes, or geometric patterns. The staff are attentive to your preferences, offering options for colors, stones, and jewelry to customize your look.
What’s particularly appealing is the inclusion of extensions and strengthening treatments, which mean you’ll leave with nails that look great and are durable enough for social media photos. As one reviewer noted, “The nail services are excellent, and they can even accommodate those with ingrown nails,” reflecting the professionalism and attention to special needs.
Traditional Japanese Hair Updo
The highlight for many is the traditional Japanese hair updo, crafted using your natural hair. This isn’t a quick bun—it’s a voluminous, elegant style that incorporates a variety of luxurious hair accessories, such as kanzashi. The experience is designed to make you look and feel like a princess, perfect for photos.
A helpful tip from participants: if you want the full traditional look, wash your hair the day before. The salon staff is experienced, guiding you through the process, which adds a personal touch. You can also choose to keep your hair accessories as souvenirs, which are lovely keepsakes of your Japanese day.
More Great Tours NearbyKimono Rental and Dressing
For an additional 10,000 yen, you can rent a kimono and have it dressed by professionals. The process is straightforward, and wearing a kimono adds a special dimension to your day—think of it as stepping into a traditional Japanese painting.
If you’re thinking of helping to put on your kimono, bring sandals or geta you’re comfortable wearing—these are easier to manage and less painful than traditional geta if you’re not used to them. For summer kimono (yukata), a knee-length slip is recommended.
- Daikoku & Tokyo Private JDM Tour by 700HP R34 GT-R
- Discover the Best of Yokohama: A 5-Hour Day Tour
- EVO, WRX, Skyline JDM Night Run to Daikoku Car Meet
- Eat like a local in Yokohama – with a Local Expert Guide!
- Find Yokohama’s Hidden Gem: Walking Tour with Local Guide
- From Tokyo: Fuji & Hakone Private Customizable Day Tour
What It Includes and Excludes
You’re paying $67 for a comprehensive beauty package: nail art, a traditional hair updo, and luxurious accessories. It’s a good deal considering the quality of customization and the culture involved. The package involves no hidden fees—everything from the nail design to the hair accessories is included.
However, transportation, meals, and drinks are not included, so plan accordingly. We suggest arriving in comfortable shoes, as you might want to walk around in your kimono afterward, and bring your camera to capture the moment.
Practical Tips and Considerations
- Book in advance, especially during peak seasons, since the demand can be high.
- For the hair updo, wash your hair the day before if you want to achieve the full traditional style.
- Wear clothing that opens at the front for easier kimono dressing.
- If you plan to wear the kimono for photos, consider bringing comfortable sandals or geta.
- The experience is not suitable for children under 3 or pregnant women.
- The entire session lasts about an hour or more, so plan your schedule accordingly.
Authenticity and Cultural Touch
While the experience is tailored for travelers, the focus on traditional Japanese patterns, accessories, and dress-up ensures that you’re engaging with authentic elements. Many reviews praise the attention to detail—from the carefully crafted hair styles to the traditional motifs on nails—that make this more than just a beauty treatment.
Who Should Consider This Experience?
If you’re someone who loves personalized beauty experiences and is curious about Japanese traditional aesthetics, this tour is ideal. It’s especially suitable for travelers seeking Instagram-worthy photos or those looking to try on a kimono without the hassle of finding a full rental shop.
However, it’s less suited for travelers on a tight schedule or those with strict budget constraints, given the optional kimono rental cost. It also isn’t designed for small children or pregnant women, so plan accordingly if you’re traveling with family.
Final thoughts
This Yokohama Nail and Kimono experience offers a neatly packaged taste of Japanese beauty and cultural elegance. It combines practical beauty treatments with the opportunity to dress up in traditional attire, making it a memorable highlight for anyone interested in Japanese aesthetics. For just over $60, you’re getting a personalized, Instagram-friendly makeover that’s both fun and meaningful.
Whether you’re a solo traveler eager for some self-care, a couple wanting a unique date, or a group celebrating a special occasion, this experience delivers a beautiful, well-rounded glimpse into Japanese style. Plus, the option to keep your accessories as souvenirs adds a personal touch that will remind you of your time in Yokohama.
FAQ
Is this experience suitable for first-timers?
Yes, the staff is experienced and guides you through each step, making it accessible for newcomers to Japanese beauty traditions.
How long does the entire session take?
While the exact duration isn’t specified, expect it to take around an hour or more, depending on your choices and the complexity of your manicure and hair updo.
Can I customize my nail art?
Absolutely. You can choose from around 20 traditional Japanese patterns and customize with colors, stones, and jewelry.
Is the kimono rental optional?
Yes, renting a kimono is an extra 10,000 yen, but the nail and hair experience can be enjoyed on its own.
What should I wear to the salon?
Comfortable, easy-to-open clothing is best for dressing in a kimono. Bring sandals or geta if you plan to wear the kimono afterward.
Can I do this if I have ingrown nails?
Yes, the nail services include extensions and strengthening, suitable even for those with ingrown nails.
Are there any age restrictions?
The experience is not suitable for children under 3 years or pregnant women.
What accessories do I get to take home?
You can keep the hair accessories used during your updo as souvenirs.
Is this experience good value for money?
Given the personalized service, cultural authenticity, and photo opportunities, many find it excellent value for the price.
What’s the best way to book this experience?
Booking in advance is recommended due to high demand, especially during peak seasons, and can often be arranged online.
To sum it up, if you’re looking for a fun, culturally immersive way to experience Japanese beauty traditions, this Yokohama nail and kimono package offers a delightful blend of craftsmanship, tradition, and photogenic moments. It’s perfect for those eager to create lasting memories with a dash of elegance—one that combines modern style with age-old artistry.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Tour Reviews in Yokohama
- Yokohama: Chinatown Guided Walking Tour with Food Tasting
- Yokohama: Marine Tower Observation Floor Ticket
- Yokohama Half Day Tour with a Local Expert Guide
- Weekday Evening Daikoku PA Self Drive Tour in JDM Sports Car
- Yokohama Kanagawa One Day Private Charter car from Tokyo
- Yokohama: Chinatown Guided Walking Tour
More Yokohama experiences we've covered
- Yokohama: Chinatown Guided Walking Tour with Food Tasting
- Yokohama: Marine Tower Observation Floor Ticket
- Yokohama Half Day Tour with a Local Expert Guide
- Weekday Evening Daikoku PA Self Drive Tour in JDM Sports Car
- Yokohama Kanagawa One Day Private Charter car from Tokyo
- Yokohama: Chinatown Guided Walking Tour
- Yokohama: Cupnoodles Museum, Observation Deck Lunch Tour
- Tokyo: JDM Lovers Tour with Akihabara Pickup
- Yokohama: Private Tour With a Local Expert
- Yokohama: Tour with Coffee and Lunch
- Yokohama: Cup Noodles Museum and Chinatown Guided Tour
- Yokohama: Shopping street walking to find the locals’ lives
