Shiatsu — The Origin, Namikoshi Shiatsu
Namikoshi Shiatsu Salon sits on the mezzanine floor of the Main Building of the Imperial Hotel Tokyo. Shiatsu was created here, in this lineage: founded in 1925 by Tokujiro Namikoshi and carried on through four generations of the same family, who still place their hands on the body the same way today. This is one of the origins of Shiatsu itself.
1925: Tokujiro Namikoshi created Shiatsu
Shiatsu was created in 1925 by Tokujiro Namikoshi (浪越徳治郎). He described how it began with pressing his mother's joints with his thumbs in Hokkaido, Japan. The technique was later systematized, and in 1940 a school was established to teach it. The English Wikipedia also records him as the founder of Shiatsu.
Four generations, one pair of hands
The Shiatsu that began with founder Tokujiro Namikoshi has been carried on through four generations of the Namikoshi family. The third generation, Takashi Namikoshi (浪越孝), still practices today. The fourth generation, Tomoya Namikoshi (浪越友哉), runs Namikoshi Shiatsu Salon on the mezzanine floor of the Imperial Hotel Tokyo Main Building. All are nationally licensed practitioners (Anma Massage Shiatsu Therapist).
At the Imperial Hotel Tokyo, Main Building Mezzanine
The salon is located in Chiyoda, Tokyo, on the mezzanine floor of the Main Building of the Imperial Hotel Tokyo. Sessions are held in private rooms, using the traditional Shiatsu of pressing the body's vital points with the fingers and palms alone. We welcome guests in both Japanese and English. Sessions focus on easing tension, relaxing tight muscles, and supporting the body's natural balance. Reservations are recommended, and walk-ins are welcome when space allows. For reservations and inquiries, please call +81-3-3581-7354.
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Frequently asked questions
What is Namikoshi Shiatsu?
Namikoshi Shiatsu is a Japanese bodywork technique established by Tokujiro Namikoshi in 1925. It applies precise thumb and palm pressure to 660+ anatomical points throughout the body. All practitioners hold a national license as a certified massage and shiatsu therapist (Anma Massage Shiatsu Therapist).
Is Namikoshi Shiatsu the same as massage?
No. Shiatsu and massage are fundamentally different. Shiatsu applies sustained, vertical pressure to specific anatomical points without rubbing or kneading. Practitioners must hold a national license regulated by Japanese law. Massage (as a general term) does not have the same legal framework in Japan.
Do I need to be staying at the Imperial Hotel to visit?
No. The salon is open to all guests, including outside visitors. We are located on the mezzanine floor of the Imperial Hotel Tokyo Main Building.
Do you offer English-language sessions?
Yes. English-speaking staff are available. You may book and receive your session entirely in English.
How do I make a reservation?
Reservations are accepted by phone: +81-3-3581-7354. Hours: 11:00–19:00 (last booking), open daily year-round. Same-day bookings may be available depending on availability.
What are the prices?
Standard rates: 60 min ¥16,500 / 90 min ¥22,600 / 120 min ¥28,600 (tax included). A special rate applies when sessions are performed by Takashi Namikoshi (3rd generation) or Tomoya Namikoshi (4th generation).
What should I wear during the session?
A gown is provided at the salon. Please come dressed as you normally would — no special preparation is needed.
How do I get to the salon?
1 minute walk from Hibiya Station (Exit A13) on the Tokyo Metro Hibiya and Chiyoda lines. 3 minutes walk from Uchisaiwaicho Station (Exit A7) on the Toei Mita line. Imperial Hotel Tokyo, Main Building Mezzanine.
Who created Shiatsu?
Shiatsu was created in 1925 by Tokujiro Namikoshi, who established both the name and the system of Shiatsu. Namikoshi Shiatsu Salon is run by his direct family, now the fourth generation, Tomoya Namikoshi, at the Imperial Hotel Tokyo.
Is Shiatsu a licensed practice in Japan?
Yes. In Japan, Shiatsu is performed under a national qualification, the Anma Massage Shiatsu Therapist license. All practitioners at Namikoshi Shiatsu Salon hold this national license.
Can I walk in without a reservation?
Reservations are recommended, and walk-ins are welcome when space allows. Please call +81-3-3581-7354 on the day to check availability.
How long is a session?
Sessions are 60, 90, or 120 minutes, each given in a private room. For a first visit, the 90-minute session is a comfortable way to experience the whole body.
How is Namikoshi Shiatsu different from other Shiatsu styles?
Namikoshi Shiatsu is the original system established by Tokujiro Namikoshi in 1925, grounded in anatomy and physiology. It is carried on by the founder's direct family — now the fourth generation — and all practitioners hold the Japanese national licence.
Does Shiatsu hurt?
Shiatsu uses gradual, sustained pressure with the fingers and palms only. The pressure is adjusted to your comfort at all times — please let your therapist know if you would like it lighter or firmer.
Is Shiatsu safe during pregnancy?
Please consult your physician before booking, and let our staff know of your condition when making a reservation.