Luscious Locks at Andy Hair Salon
Published: September 19, 2019
When I first moved to Japan at peak heat and humidity, I was amazed to see women with beautiful smooth and shiny hair, all perfectly in place. Little did I know that haircare is a national obsession where monthly visits to the salon are the norm. Given that my knowledge of haircare is rather slim, I was excited to gain some insight on a recent visit to Andy Hair Salon in Ojima.
Stepping inside, I instantly knew I was in good hands upon meeting the owner, Mrs. Ando, who has gorgeous thick black hair cascading down to her waist. Here is a woman who understands hair. Boasting an impressive 40 years of experience, she previously worked as a hairstylist and dresser for geiko (maiko and geisha) before settling back in Koto Ward, her hometown. This knowledge is put to use every year for the coming of age ceremony (a rite of passage when Japanese turn 20), but for the most part, her focus is improving hair quality through high quality products and treatments.
The name “Andy” is Mrs. Ando’s nickname and the salon is filled with personal artistic touches: a hand painted sign, paper cutout artwork on the walls, stencils on entryway, all her own handiwork. Looking at the two salon chairs and small waiting area with magazines and snacks, I could imagine the salon buzzing with activity with the locals gathering here to discuss the latest gossip. “Many of my clients come here for their monthly treatment or perm and I enjoy spending time with them, getting know what’s been going on in their lives”, Mrs. Ando explained. “I want people to feel like this is a place to relax and recharge.”
What impressed me the most, however, was Mrs. Ando’s enthusiasm and prices. In Tokyo, getting one’s hair cut, styled, or dyed is often quite the investment, but Andy Hair Salon offers very competitive rates. A haircut starts at 3000 yen plus tax, and head spa with shampoo and 5-stage treatment process at 5000 yen plus tax.
Services include:
- Cut 3000 yen + tax
- Cut and shampoo 3500 yen + tax
- Head Spa treatment (shampoo included) 5000 + tax
- Perm 5000 yen + tax
- Perm and cut 8000 yen + tax
- Colour (root retouching for 2cm and under) 5000 yen + tax
- Colour (root retouching for over 2cm) 5500 yen + tax
- Full colour (short, medium, long) 6000, 6500, 7000 + tax
Just for fun, Mrs. Ando invited me to sit in the salon chair as she did a quick trim and pinned my hair into a vintage-inspired style.
Ever the hard worker, the salon is open 7 days a week with Mrs. Ando rarely taking a day off. Appointments must be booked at least 3 days in advance, which can be done either by phone, or in person and also involves a short consultation. In addition, the salon can often accommodate an appointment outside of regular opening hours.
So, whether you are in the market for a trim, dye job, or treatment, Andy Hair Salon has all of your haircare needs covered, and at a great price!
Story and Photos by Jenna Wilson
