What Does an American Think of a Japanese Massage? Henny’s First Experience at Takumi Massage in Shinjuku

If you’re visiting Japan, you’ve probably heard about sushi, hot springs, and amazing sightseeing spots.

But what about Japanese massage?

Is it different from what you’d find in the United States or Europe?

To find out, Book Massage Japan invited Henny, an American who has been living in Tokyo for the past three months, to experience a traditional Japanese massage at Takumi Massage in Shinjuku.

Here’s his honest review.

Quick Summary

After a 90-minute session, Henny highlighted four things that stood out:

✔ Highly skilled therapists

✔ English-friendly service

✔ A peaceful Japanese atmosphere

✔ Noticeable relief from back and hip pain

Let’s take a closer look at his experience.

Meet Henny

Henny is originally from the United States and recently moved to Tokyo.

A few quick facts about him:

• From the USA
• Living in Tokyo for 3 months
• Loves playing baseball
• Often experiences lower back and hip pain

Because he plays baseball regularly, he had been dealing with discomfort in his lower back and hips for quite some time.

The Massage Shop We Visited – Takumi Massage Shinjuku

For this experience, we visited Takumi Massage, a popular massage shop located in the heart of Shinjuku.

The location is incredibly convenient:

• About 6 minutes on foot from Shinjuku Station South Exit
• About 5 minutes from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Observatory
• Reservation only
• English-speaking staff available
• Tattoo-friendly

Many international visitors stop by while exploring Tokyo, and popular time slots can fill up quickly.

First Impressions – A Relaxing Japanese Atmosphere

As soon as we arrived, we noticed something very Japanese.

Before entering the treatment area, guests remove their shoes and change into indoor slippers.

It’s a small detail, but it immediately creates a feeling of comfort and cleanliness.

Inside, the atmosphere was calm and welcoming.

Soft lighting, relaxing background music, and elegant Japanese-modern decor created a peaceful environment.

Considering that Shinjuku is one of the busiest areas in Tokyo, stepping inside felt like entering a hidden retreat away from the city’s energy.

 

The Massage Experience -Time to Relax

Before the session began, Henny changed into comfortable massage wear.

The therapist then asked a few questions about his physical condition and any areas of concern.

Since Henny had been experiencing discomfort in his lower back and hips, the therapist focused on those areas throughout the treatment.

As the massage started, Henny quickly relaxed.

The therapist carefully checked muscle tension and adjusted the pressure based on his condition.

One thing that stood out was the attention to detail. The therapist wasn’t simply following a routine—they were paying close attention to how Henny’s body responded throughout the session.

After 90 minutes of treatment, the therapist also shared a few simple stretches and exercises that Henny could continue doing at home.

Interview After the Massage

Had you ever received a massage in Japan before?

No. This was my very first Japanese massage experience.

How was your first Japanese massage experience?

“It was a great experience. The hospitality was excellent, the staff spoke English well, and the therapist really knew what he was doing.”

Henny especially appreciated how comfortable the experience felt, even as a foreign visitor.

Being able to communicate in English helped him relax, and he felt confident that the therapist understood exactly what his body needed.

Did you notice any changes after the massage?

“Before coming here, I had a lot of pain in my back and hips. After the massage, I felt like a brand-new person.”

As someone who regularly plays baseball, Henny often experiences strain in his lower back and hips.

After the treatment, he said he felt lighter, more comfortable, and significantly more refreshed.

Would you recommend Takumi Massage to travelers visiting Tokyo?

“Absolutely. I would recommend it to anyone visiting Tokyo.”

Simple and clear.

That’s probably the strongest recommendation a traveler can give.

What International Travelers May Love

Based on Henny’s experience, here are some reasons why foreign visitors may enjoy Takumi Massage:

• English-speaking staff
• Tattoo-friendly environment
• Convenient Shinjuku location
• Easy to combine with sightseeing at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
• Quiet and relaxing Japanese atmosphere
• Highly skilled therapists

Whether you’re visiting Tokyo for a few days or staying longer, it’s a great place to unwind after exploring the city.

Looking for a Massage During Your Japan Trip?

Traveling around Tokyo often means long days of walking, sightseeing, and carrying luggage.

If you’re feeling tired after exploring Shinjuku or visiting the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, a relaxing massage might be exactly what you need.

At Book Massage Japan, we help international visitors find and book massage experiences in Japan with confidence.

Ready to experience Japanese hospitality and relaxation for yourself?

Your next great travel memory might start with a massage.

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