No Japanese Needed: How to Get Beautiful Nails in Tokyo

You Don’t Need to Speak Japanese to Get Amazing Nails in Tokyo

Tokyo is famous for its incredible nail art, but many tourists skip this experience because they don’t speak Japanese. That’s a shame – because with a little preparation, you can enjoy world-class nail service without saying a single Japanese word.

Here’s your complete guide to getting beautiful nails in Tokyo, no Japanese required.

The Secret: Visual Communication

Japanese nail technicians are visual artists. They’re experts at understanding what you want through pictures, gestures, and samples. In fact, even Japanese customers often communicate through photos!

What to Show Your Nail Technician

• Pinterest boards: Save your favorite nail designs
• Instagram screenshots: Capture looks you love
• Color references: Photos of clothing, accessories, or anything showing your preferred colors
• The salon’s own designs: Point to samples in the salon or on their Instagram

Step-by-Step: Your Appointment Without Japanese

Before You Go

1. Find a salon on Instagram: Check their work matches your style
2. DM in English: Ask about availability and send design references
3. Confirm the price: Get a clear quote before booking
4. Save the address: Screenshot it or use Google Maps

At the Salon

1. Show your reservation: Screenshot of your DM conversation works great
2. Present your reference photos: The technician will understand
3. Point to colors: Most salons have color charts you can point to
4. Use hand gestures: Thumbs up/down for yes/no works universally
5. Relax and enjoy: Let the artist work their magic

Useful Gestures and Simple Words

These universal gestures work great:

• 👍 = Yes, I like it
• 👎 = No, I don’t want that
• 🤏 = A little bit / smaller
• 👐 = Bigger / more
• ☝️ = This one (while pointing)

Simple English words most nail technicians understand:

• OK / No
• Short / Long (for nail length)
• More / Less
• This color / That one
• Beautiful / Perfect

Common Concerns (And Why You Shouldn’t Worry)

What if they don’t understand my design request?

Japanese nail technicians are incredibly skilled at interpreting reference photos. Show them 2-3 pictures and point to specific elements you like. They’ll get it.

What if I don’t like it during the process?

It’s OK to shake your head or say ‘no’ politely. Good salons will adjust. At NURU NAIL, we do test colors on your nail before committing to make sure you’re happy.

What if there’s an extra charge I didn’t expect?

This is why confirming the price beforehand via DM is important. At NURU NAIL Shinjuku, we always tell you the total cost before starting – no surprises.

Why NURU NAIL is Perfect for Non-Japanese Speakers

At NURU NAIL Shinjuku, we’ve welcomed visitors from the US, Europe, Australia, Singapore, and beyond. Here’s why tourists choose us:

• Instagram DM booking in English: Easy communication before you arrive
• Visual-first consultation: We rely on photos and samples, not complex explanations
• Transparent pricing: Know your total before the appointment starts
• Patient, friendly staff: YUMI, SAKI, and MANAMI enjoy working with international guests
• Great location: Easy to find, just 6 minutes from Shinjuku Station

Book Your Appointment

Ready to experience Japanese nail art? Here’s how:

1. DM us on Instagram: @nuru_nailsalon_official
2. Tell us your date, time, and share some design photos
3. We’ll reply in English with availability and pricing
4. Come to the salon and enjoy!

Don’t let language stop you from getting beautiful nails in Tokyo. We’re here to help!

Find Us

NURU NAIL Shinjuku

4F, Dai-3 Shida Building, 7-16-1 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo

Open 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM daily

6 minutes walk from JR Shinjuku Station West Exit