Top 5 Beauty Salon Booking Apps in Japan
Booking a beauty salon appointment is not only a key part of routine self-care but also an essential step for special events, from haircuts to facials, nails, and more. In Japan, the convenience of booking beauty services has been elevated with several top-notch apps designed to streamline the process. These apps provide a wide range of services, easy navigation, and the ability to secure appointments at your convenience—whether you're looking for an everyday pampering session or preparing for a special occasion. In this article, we’ll explore the top five beauty salon booking apps in Japan, ranked by customer satisfaction and app downloads, to help you find the perfect solution for your beauty needs. By examining the standout features and benefits of each app, you can select the one that best aligns with your preferences and lifestyle.
▼ Top Beauty Salon Booking Apps
*(Ranked by number of app downloads)
- Hot Pepper Beauty
- Minimo
- Rakuten Beauty
- OZmall
- String
1. Hot Pepper Beauty
Image Source: Hot Pepper Beauty
Hot Pepper Beauty is Japan's largest and most popular beauty salon booking app, featuring an impressive database of over 100,000 salons nationwide. From hair and nail services to eyelash extensions, massages, and esthetics, the app caters to a wide range of beauty and relaxation needs. With 24/7 access, you can conveniently search and book appointments anytime, anywhere.
Key Features:
- Extensive Listings: Boasting over 200,000 registered stylists and handling more than 150 million reservations annually, the app ensures you'll find the perfect salon for your preferences.
- Tailored Search Options: Easily locate salons by area, nearest station, desired date, or even specific services like hair color or eyelash extensions.
- Rich Salon Information: Each salon profile includes operational details, maps, photos, and over 15 million reviews, giving you a comprehensive look before making a decision.
- Exclusive Coupons and Points: Discover numerous discount coupons for first-time and repeat customers. With every online booking, you earn points that can be redeemed for future savings, making it an economical choice.
For inspiration, the app also features a vast hair and nail catalog with over 2.5 million hairstyle options and 400,000 nail designs. You can bookmark styles you like and book salons directly from the catalog. Whether you're planning a new look or need a quick refresh, Hot Pepper Beauty provides a seamless and rewarding salon booking experience.
2. Minimo
Image Source: Minimo
Minimo is the go-to app for beauty enthusiasts seeking professional services at budget-friendly prices. This app lets you book services from individual beauty professionals, such as hairstylists, nail technicians, eyelash designers, estheticians, and more, across Japan. Whether you're looking to explore new styles or maintain your routine, Minimo makes it easy and affordable.
Key Features:
- Personalized Beauty Services: Minimo allows you to choose beauty professionals based on their profiles, including skill levels, specialties, and even their personality and style preferences. You can also read reviews and ratings to ensure you're making the best choice.
- Exclusive Minimo Pricing: Many services are offered at special rates exclusive to the app, making it possible to try high-end treatments or experiment with new trends without overspending.
- Pre-Visit Consultations: One standout feature is the ability to message your chosen professional before your appointment. This ensures clear communication about your desired look, avoiding any misunderstandings.
Minimo is ideal for those who want to enjoy diverse beauty treatments, from haircuts and coloring to nails and eyelash extensions, without breaking the bank. Its user-friendly interface and wealth of options make it a must-have for anyone passionate about self-care and trying out the latest beauty trends.
3. Rakuten Beauty
Image Source: Rakuten Beauty
Rakuten Beauty is a versatile salon booking app powered by Rakuten, offering a seamless way to reserve beauty services while earning Rakuten Points. Whether you're a loyal Rakuten shopper or simply seeking a convenient way to discover top-notch salons, this app has plenty to offer.
Key Features:
- Diverse Salon Options: With access to a vast array of salons across Japan, you can book not only hair and beauty salons but also nail, eyelash, esthetic, massage, and relaxation services.
- Comprehensive Search Filters: Easily find your perfect salon by combining filters for area, service type, desired date, or even salon amenities.
- Earn and Redeem Rakuten Points: Every reservation earns you Rakuten Points, which can be used for discounts on future bookings or other Rakuten services. Regular campaigns make it even easier to accumulate points quickly.
- Inspiration Through Catalogs: The app features extensive hair and nail catalogs, allowing you to browse trendy styles by age, occasion, or personal preference. From finding a seasonal nail design to picking a hairstyle for a special event, the catalogs make decision-making a breeze.
- 24/7 Booking Convenience: The app is designed for busy users, enabling you to search and reserve services anytime, anywhere.
Rakuten Beauty is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy effortless salon booking while taking advantage of Rakuten's rewards system. Whether you're trying a bold new style or indulging in a relaxing massage, this app ensures you get great value for your time and money.
4. OZmall
Image Source: OZmall
Ozmall is an exclusive beauty salon booking app tailored for those seeking premium beauty services, particularly in Tokyo’s trendiest neighborhoods. Offering a curated selection of top-tier salons, Ozmall is perfect for anyone who wants to indulge in a luxury beauty experience with a focus on quality and convenience.
Key Features:
- Curated Premium Salons: Ozmall’s editorial team handpicks only the finest beauty salons, ensuring that every experience is exceptional. Whether you’re after a lavish treatment or a top-tier hairstylist, the app makes it easy to book with confidence.
- Exclusive Deals and Premium Plans: The app offers special promotions and discounts for high-end services, including luxurious packages that are only available through Ozmall.
- 24/7 Reservation System: You can reserve appointments anytime, with real-time availability for easy and hassle-free booking.
- Comprehensive Service Options: From sophisticated hair treatments to relaxing spas and facials, Ozmall features a wide range of services designed for those who value a refined beauty experience.
- Earn Oz Points: Every reservation earns you Oz Points, which can be redeemed for future bookings, discounts, or special offers.
Ozmall is ideal for those who want to enjoy a luxurious beauty experience in the heart of Tokyo, offering the best salons, personalized service, and exclusive perks that make every visit feel special.
5. String
Image Source: String
String is a beauty salon booking app designed for users who prioritize technical skills and the stylist's expertise when choosing a beautician. Ideal for those who want to ensure their look is handled by professionals with the right experience, String provides detailed profiles of stylists, including their specialties and previous work.
Key Features:
- Find Stylists by Hairstyle: One of String’s standout features is the ability to search for stylists based on the hairstyles they specialize in. If you have a specific look in mind, you can browse through a wide array of styles and find out which stylist created them, making it easier to find the right expert to achieve your desired look.
- Detailed Stylist Profiles: Each stylist’s profile includes their career history, expertise, and the types of hairstyles they excel at. This gives users a clear understanding of what to expect and helps make an informed decision when choosing a beautician.
- Personalized Style Recommendations: String offers tailored recommendations based on your preferences, ensuring that you’re matched with the right stylist and treatment options for your individual style.
- Portfolio and Matching for Stylists: For stylists who may not be tied to a particular salon, String allows them to create portfolios to showcase their work and attract potential clients.
- Product Recommendations: The app also offers product suggestions for haircare, including styling products and treatments, so users can discover items that align with their hair goals.
Whether you’re looking for a new hairstyle or seeking a stylist with a particular skill set, String ensures that you find the perfect match for your needs. It’s a go-to app for users who prioritize technical proficiency and the ability to connect directly with talented professionals.
Conclusion
Beauty salon booking apps have revolutionized the way we access beauty services, making it easier than ever to maintain a polished look or prepare for a special event. Japan offers a variety of apps that cater to diverse needs, from those seeking budget-friendly options to those in search of a luxury beauty experience. Whether you're looking for detailed stylist profiles, exclusive discounts, or a wide range of services, the apps featured in this article—Hot Pepper Beauty, Minimo, Rakuten Beauty, Ozmall, and String—each bring something unique to the table. Choosing the right app for your needs is key to enhancing your salon experience, ensuring that every visit is effortless, enjoyable, and rewarding. With these apps, you can streamline your beauty routine and enjoy personalized services that suit your style, preferences, and budget.
