Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ
Everything you need to know before your visit.
Booking
How to make an appointment
How do I book an appointment?
The simplest way is to send Yasu a quick message on WhatsApp — even just asking “Do you have any openings around [date]?” is enough to start.
2 weeks or more ahead (recommended)
Message Yasu on WhatsApp with your preferred dates. He’ll reply personally in English and secure your slot.
Within the next 2 weeks
Check the live booking calendar, or simply ask Yasu — last-minute openings and cancellations don’t always show online.
Why do I need to send a consultation message first?
A first message can be as short as one line — but sharing a little about your hair helps in a few ways.
Safety comes first
Knowing your hair history (bleach, straightening, self-coloring, medications) allows Yasu to prepare the right products — down to the gram — before you arrive. Applying the wrong chemicals to compromised hair can cause real damage.
Better results, no surprises
Pre-consultation allows Yasu to be honest with you: if he can’t achieve your goal in one session, he’ll tell you before you book — not after you’re in the chair.
Maximum time for you
Because the session is planned in advance, there’s no wasted time on the day. Every minute is focused on your hair.
How far in advance should I book?
The salon takes a maximum of 3 clients per day, and appointments are typically booked 2–3 weeks in advance. We recommend reaching out as early as possible to secure your preferred date.
Within the next 2 weeks
Our booking calendar shows live availability and lets you join the cancellation waitlist — though cancellations are genuinely rare.
2 weeks or more ahead
Please message Yasu directly on WhatsApp. If you’re visiting Sapporo, we recommend reaching out at least 3–4 weeks before your trip.
Do you accept walk-ins?
No. The salon is by appointment only — no exceptions. This is what allows Yasu to give each client his complete, undivided attention for the full session.
Can I book for today or on short notice?
Unfortunately, no. As a one-person salon, Yasu prepares individually for each client in advance, so same-day and last-minute bookings aren’t possible.
Please allow at least 24 hours
Kindly reach out at least a day before your hoped-for appointment — and for a specific date, earlier is always better, as slots fill 2–3 weeks ahead.
A note on replies
Yasu is with clients all day and answers messages once each morning, so you may not hear back until the next day. Every message is read and personally answered — thank you for your patience.
Your Visit
What to expect
What to expect
when you arrive
Where exactly is the salon?
The salon is in Maruyama, Chuo-ku, Sapporo — a 3-minute walk from Maruyama-Koen Station (Exit 3, near KFC or the Starbucks at Maruyama Class). It’s on the 3rd floor of a characterful older building, diagonally across from the Rokkatei Confectionery.
There is no sign outside. The exact address and building name are shared only after your appointment is confirmed, to maintain the privacy of the space.
There is no sign outside. The exact address and building name are shared only after your appointment is confirmed, to maintain the privacy of the space.
Is there parking available?
There is no dedicated parking. Coin parking lots are available nearby. The subway (Tozai Line, Maruyama-Koen Station) is the most convenient option.
Is there an elevator?
No — the salon is on the 3rd floor via stairs only. Please let us know in advance if this may be a concern.
Can I bring someone with me?
Yes — one companion is welcome. The space is small (7 tsubo / approx. 23 sqm), so we ask that no more than one additional person accompanies you. Children, partners, and elderly parents are all welcome.
What if I’m running late?
Up to 10 minutes late — no need to contact us, just come carefully. If you’ll be 15 minutes or more late, please send a WhatsApp message to Yasu directly. Note that late arrivals may affect the services we’re able to complete in your session.
How early should I arrive?
Please arrive no more than 5 minutes early — there is no waiting area. Maruyama has wonderful cafés nearby; we suggest enjoying one before your appointment. It sets the right tone for the session.
Why is the outer door left open during sessions?
95% of clients are women. A private studio with a male stylist — Yasu understands that can feel uncomfortable for some people. By keeping the outer iron door open throughout every session, the space remains visible and welcoming. You should feel completely at ease from the moment you walk in.
Services & Techniques
About the services
Can you work with my hair type? (curly, fine, thick, colored)
Yes. Yasu has 13+ years of experience working with diverse hair types in Australia and Germany — including fine European hair, curly Western hair, thick Asian hair, and everything in between. Pre-consultation ensures he selects the right approach for your specific texture and history.
How long does a session take?
Cut & blow-dry: approximately 60–90 minutes.
First-time clients should allow closer to 90 minutes, as the initial consultation takes time. This extra care at the start is what makes the cut last 2–3 months instead of 6–8 weeks.
First-time clients should allow closer to 90 minutes, as the initial consultation takes time. This extra care at the start is what makes the cut last 2–3 months instead of 6–8 weeks.
Can I get a perm or color the same day as straightening?
In some cases, yes — but only with specific color types (darkening or gray coverage), and with a ¥8,000 surcharge for same-day combination treatments. Lightening color or highlights must be done on a separate day. Yasu will advise the safest plan during your consultation.
Will my hair still hold a curl after straightening?
Yes. The Meteo straightening system is formulated to maintain natural movement and flexibility. After treatment, your hair can still be curled with a 38mm iron for soft waves, or styled with a straightening iron for a sleek look. You get frizz control without losing versatility.
I’ve had bad experiences with highlights before. Can you help?
This is one of the most common concerns from international clients. Yasu uses specialized foil techniques designed for the delicate texture of Western hair — avoiding the over-processed, stripy results that come from applying standard Japanese techniques to fine European hair. The goal is natural dimension and healthy color, not drama. Please share your experience via WhatsApp so Yasu can plan accordingly.
What is the Salomb nano-bubble system?
The Salomb system generates ultra-fine air bubbles — 200× smaller than a strand of hair — in the wash water. These micro-bubbles penetrate into the scalp and between hair cuticles, lifting out oxidized sebum, residual silicone, and other buildup that regular shampoo cannot reach. The result: a cleaner, healthier scalp and hair that absorbs subsequent treatments more deeply. It’s included in every service.
What is the Meteo treatment?
The Meteo system (by Altema) is a professional hair repair treatment that creates new internal bonds within the hair shaft using amino-crosslink chemistry. Unlike surface-coating treatments, it rebuilds the internal structure of damaged or aging hair — restoring strength, eliminating frizz, and creating a deep, lasting shine. It’s included in all chemical services at no additional charge.
Are you up to date with current trends?
Yes — Yasu regularly attends training sessions with leading stylists in Tokyo and other cities, and continuously studies new products and techniques. Whether you want something classic, current, or a subtle nod to a trend, the goal is always what suits you best — not what’s simply fashionable.
Payment
Pricing & payment
What payment methods do you accept? Can I use a credit card?
Yes — credit cards are welcome, and cashless payment is preferred.
Cards & digital payment
Visa, Mastercard, and American Express are all accepted, as well as Apple Pay and Google Pay. QR-code payments (PayPay, LINE Pay, etc.) and e-money are also fine.
Paying in cash
Cash is accepted too, but please bring the exact amount as change may not always be available.
Are all prices inclusive of tax?
Yes. All prices are inclusive of Japanese consumption tax (10%). There is no additional charge for long hair or extra product use.
What is the money-back guarantee?
If you are not completely satisfied with the result of an Extended Specialist Course service, Yasu offers a full refund — no questions asked. This guarantee reflects his confidence in his work and his commitment to your satisfaction. The guarantee applies exclusively to the Extended Specialist Course.
Still have questions?
Ask Yasu directly.
Send Yasu a WhatsApp message about your hair — no commitment required. He responds personally in English, once each morning.
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