Reviewing Different Japanese Massage Types
Key Takeaways
Japanese massage includes several styles: Shiatsu, Seitai, Anma, Kobido, Ashiatsu, and Reflexology.
Each style has its own focus — from energy balancing to posture alignment or facial rejuvenation.
Shiatsu: gentle pressure along energy lines to ease tension and restore balance.
Seitai: gentle stretches to support body alignment.
Anma: traditional kneading for deep relaxation.
Kobido: rhythmic facial massage for glow, tone and circulation.
Ashiatsu: therapist uses their feet for deep, broad pressure on large muscles.
Reflexology: pressure on feet linked to overall well-being.
Side effects are generally mild (e.g. redness or soreness), but trained therapists are essential.
Best results often come from regular treatments, such as monthly Kobido facials.
Always share any health concerns with your therapist before treatment.
Welcome! If you’ve been curious about Japanese massage, you’re in the right place. Japanese bodywork includes many styles, each with its own focus and benefits. In this post we’ll explain the most common ones in a friendly, down-to-earth way. You’ll learn about Shiatsu massage (the word literally means “finger pressure” – more on that below), Kobido facial massage (an ancient Japanese facial treatment), Seitai and Anma/Amna (traditional alignment and kneading therapies) & Ashiatsu massage (deep barefoot massage). We’ll also cover Reflexology (a foot-based therapy often found in London spas). Think of this as a quick tour of Japanese massages – if you’re searching for stuff like “japanese facial treatment near me” or “kobido face massage London”, this will give you the scoop. Let’s get started!
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What are the different types of Japanese massages?
Japanese massage isn’t just one thing – there are several distinct styles. Some key types include:
Shiatsu Massage – a very popular traditional Japanese massage. Practitioners use their thumbs, fingers and palms to press along energy lines. (In fact, “shiatsu” literally means Japanese massage that means “finger pressure”, so you can remember it by thinking of a gentle finger/kneading massage.) Shiatsu is often done on a mat or a bench, sometimes fully clothed, to release muscle tension and improve circulation. A related idea is a Shiatsu facial, where similar pressure techniques are applied to the face. (If you see ads for a “Shiatsu facial” or “Japanese facial treatment near me,” those are based on this.)
Seitai Massage – a therapy focused on whole-body alignment and posture. Seitai practitioners use stretches and gentle manipulations to correct imbalances. It’s less about oil and rubbing, more about precise adjustments to keep you balanced and relaxed.
Amna (or Anma) Massage – an older Japanese kneading massage that predates Shiatsu. It involves deep kneading, rubbing, and pressure on the muscles (kind of like a vigorous Swedish or deep-tissue massage). Some people call it “Amna massage” (or amna massage in listing keywords). It’s great for general relaxation and releasing tight muscles.
Kobido Facial Massage – a special Japanese face massage (sometimes called the “ancient way of beauty”). It uses rhythmic, precise strokes on the face, neck and shoulders to boost circulation, firm facial muscles and give a healthy glow. Think of it as the Japanese anti-aging facial massage. Many spas advertise “kobido facial massage” or “kobido face massage London” when promoting it. If you ever search “kobido massage near me” you’ll see practitioners offering it for a natural facelift effect.
Ashiatsu Massage – literally “foot pressure” massage. Here, the therapist uses their bare feet (often holding onto overhead bars for balance) to press into your back and other big muscles. Ashiatsu massage delivers very deep, broad pressure (much stronger than finger pressure) which is excellent for chronic back pain or deep-tissue release. It’s one of the deepest massage styles out there.
These are some of the main Japanese massage styles. (There are others too, but these cover the big ones.) Each has its own flavor: Shiatsu emphasizes pressure points, Seitai focuses on alignment, Amna is deep kneading, Kobido is facial, and Ashiatsu is deep barefoot massage.
What is a kobido facial massage?
A Kobido facial massage is a traditional Japanese face massage that dates back centuries (sometimes called the “ancient way of beauty”). It’s a lot like an acupressure facial: the therapist uses gentle pinches, taps, kneading motions and stretches on your face, neck and head. The goal is to improve circulation, boost collagen production, and tone the muscles under the skin. Many people find that regular Kobido massage can help the skin look firmer and more radiant, with reduced puffiness or fine lines. It’s often marketed as a type of Japanese anti-aging or rejuvenation facial. In fact, if you search online, you’ll see results for “Japanese facial treatment near me” or “kobido face massage London” – those listings are usually for Kobido therapists.
A Kobido session typically lasts about an hour, using a lightweight cream or oil. It can feel very relaxing like a spa facial, but with a bit more stimulation as the therapist actively works the muscles and acupoints. You might feel tingling warmth or mild fatigue in your face afterwards, which usually goes away quickly. If you have sensitive skin or any facial skin conditions (like acne or open wounds), mention that – the therapist can adjust pressure or skip areas. Otherwise, Kobido facial massage is considered very gentle. It’s a great option if you want a natural “facelift” massage – no needles, just skilled hands.
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How often should I do a kobido massage?
For most people, once a month is a common recommendation to maintain the effects of Kobido massage. Doing it about every 3–4 weeks allows the skin and muscles to consolidate the benefits (improved blood flow and muscle tone). Some therapists may suggest a series of more frequent sessions at first – for example, once a week for a month – if you have specific goals (like preparing for an event or treating deeper tension). After that, once per month is usually enough. If your schedule or skin sensitivity doesn’t allow that, even doing Kobido every 6–8 weeks can be helpful. Just listen to your body: if you feel your face tense up again or your skin dull, it might be time to book another session. If you’re in the London area and searching for “kobido massage near me,” you can ask your therapist for a schedule that fits your needs.
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What are the side effects of Kobido massage?
Kobido is very gentle, so side effects are minimal. Most people simply feel relaxed and refreshed afterwards. You might notice your face is slightly pink for a little while – that’s normal, it means circulation has increased. A few people feel mild soreness or a slight headache after an intense face massage (especially if they hold a lot of tension). Sometimes there is a short period of fluid drainage (like slight tearing in the eyes or runny nose) right after the massage as toxins are cleared. However, serious side effects are very rare with Kobido. Of course, if the therapist presses too hard, one could get a small bruise, but trained Kobido practitioners know to be gentle around the delicate facial tissues. If you’re very prone to bruising or have a severe skin condition, just let the therapist know beforehand. Overall, Kobido is considered quite safe. Just drink water afterwards and relax – any minor effects will pass quickly.
How much does kobido massage cost?
Prices for Kobido facial massage can vary by location and salon. In London, a typical 60–90 minute Kobido session might range from £50 up to £100 or more, depending on the spa’s prestige and exactly how long you book. Outside big cities or at smaller studios, you might find rates as low as £40–£60 per session. The best way is to look up local salons: you may see deals labeled “Kobido face massage London” or “kobido facial massage UK”. If you find a listing with “kobido massage near me,” it often includes the price. Remember that high-quality Kobido can be quite a specialized skill, so very low prices might mean a less experienced therapist. It can be worth investing in a trained practitioner for the full effect. Always ask what’s included – some places bundle in extra pampering steps or skincare products.
What does an Ashiatsu massage do?
Ashiatsu massage is a very deep, relaxing massage done with the therapist’s bare feet. (In fact, “ashi” means foot in Japanese.) During an Ashiatsu session, the therapist will often hold onto overhead bars or ropes for balance, then walk gently or apply the broad soles of their feet along your muscles. Because one foot covers a large area, the pressure is spread out and very deep – much deeper than a normal hand massage. This makes Ashiatsu excellent for chronic back pain, tight shoulders, and large muscle groups like legs and glutes. It can feel like a broad, evenly deep kneading over the body.
People often say Ashiatsu feels like getting the deepest full-body stretch and massage at once. It can relieve stubborn knots that even elbows or thumbs can’t reach. Many find it deeply calming as well, because the therapist’s feet “hug” and glide over the body. After an Ashiatsu, it’s common to feel very loose and warm (sometimes a little soreness in the muscles, like after a good workout). Overall, it’s a luxurious way to get a powerful massage – you experience the weight of the therapist’s body in a controlled, safe way.
What is the difference between shiatsu and Ashiatsu massage?
Shiatsu and Ashiatsu have similar roots but look and feel very different. Shiatsu massage (指圧) is the classic Japanese style that uses the hands and fingers. A Shiatsu therapist uses thumbs, fingers, elbows, and palms to press on meridian points (energy lines) and acupressure spots throughout the body. You might sit in a chair or lie on a futon; usually the client stays clothed in loose, comfortable clothing. Shiatsu is about targeted pressure and stretches along specific channels.
By contrast, Ashiatsu massage uses feet instead of hands. In fact, Ashiatsu literally means “foot pressure.” The therapist typically stands on the massage table (holding overhead supports) and uses the soles of their bare feet to massage your body. The pressure in Ashiatsu is generally much deeper and broader than Shiatsu. Shiatsu is often more pinpoint and might feel rhythmic, while Ashiatsu delivers long, deep strokes. You could say Shiatsu is like precise finger pressure on acupoints, whereas Ashiatsu is more like heavy, flowing compression along the muscles.
Another difference is that Shiatsu incorporates Japanese energy philosophy and may feel meditative, whereas Ashiatsu is usually more of a Western-style deep tissue technique. Also, Shiatsu might incorporate gentle rocking and stretches, whereas Ashiatsu feels more like a firm, barefoot Swedish/deep-tissue massage. In short: Shiatsu massage = fingers/hands, finger-pressure (japanese massage that means finger pressure) on energy lines; Ashiatsu massage = therapist’s feet, very deep soothing pressure. Both can relax you, but Ashiatsu is typically heavier and uses weight from above, while Shiatsu is more hands-on and focused on pressure points.
What can a reflexologist tell from your feet?
Have you ever heard that your feet can reveal secrets about your health? That’s the basic idea of foot reflexology massage. Reflexologists believe the feet contain zones that map to organs and systems of the body. By applying pressure to specific areas on the feet, they claim to access those organs’ “reflex” points. For example, the arch of your foot is often linked to digestive organs, while the ball of the foot is associated with the heart and chest (Foot Reflexology Chart: Points, How to, Benefits, and Risks). If the therapist feels a tender spot or a hard knot on your foot, they might say that related part of your body is out of balance (say, stress or tightness).
In practice, a reflexologist will gently press, squeeze, or massage each part of your foot according to a chart. As they work, they may comment on what they “feel” – perhaps noting if one foot feels colder, or if a certain toe is unusually sensitive. In short, reflexologists think your feet can tell a story about your overall wellness. (It’s a holistic viewpoint, though it’s not a scientifically proven diagnostic tool.) If you search for “Reflexology near me” in London, you’ll find many spas and practitioners offering foot reflexology. They often tout that this form of Reflexology massage can indicate internal imbalances and promote relaxation.
Is foot reflexology good or bad for you?
Most people find foot reflexology pleasantly relaxing, and Reflexology benefits are often described as stress relief and improved well-being (Foot Reflexology Chart: Points, How to, Benefits, and Risks). The act of massaging the feet alone can reduce tension and make you feel calm (think of it as a soothing foot rub with a purpose). According to reflexology charts, pressing on certain points might help with digestion, sleep, or stress – many clients report feeling a sense of balance and relief afterward. For example, common claimed benefits include reduced anxiety, less foot pain, and even improved sleep (Foot Reflexology Chart: Points, How to, Benefits, and Risks).
However, it’s important to be realistic. Foot reflexology is generally considered safe and non-invasive, but its medical effectiveness is not proven. A recent review notes that reflexology “may be beneficial as a complementary treatment, but scientific evidence is lacking” (Foot Reflexology Chart: Points, How to, Benefits, and Risks). In other words, it’s not a cure-all. Many people feel better after reflexology because it triggers relaxation and better circulation. Think of it as a gentle, caring therapy that can make you feel good in the moment. If you have chronic issues like blood clots or severe neuropathy, the reflexologist will usually advise against it. For most healthy people, though, a short foot massage is unlikely to do harm – and it might just feel really nice! If you ever notice unusual soreness or pain in your feet after reflexology, let your therapist know.
When should you not do reflexology?
Reflexology is not for everyone. Health experts warn that people with certain conditions should skip it or get medical approval first. In particular, if you have circulatory problems, gout, or a history of blood clots, you should avoid foot reflexology. This is because the massage could potentially dislodge clots or exacerbate issues in compromised blood vessels. Similarly, open wounds, severe foot injuries, burns, or contagious skin conditions (like athlete’s foot) are reasons to postpone reflexology until they heal. If you’re pregnant, some reflexologists recommend consulting your doctor before trying foot reflexology, since it can sometimes stimulate uterine activity. In short: check with a healthcare provider if you have serious health issues before booking a reflexology session.
To recap the safety point from experts: “While reflexology may not be scientifically proven as a medical treatment for health conditions, it’s been used for centuries to treat many ailments. Foot reflexology may be beneficial as a complementary treatment, but scientific evidence is lacking… People with circulatory issues, gout, or blood clots should avoid it”. In practice, any time your feet hurt or feel unusually sensitive during the massage, speak up – it should never be so painful that you feel unsafe.
Conclusion
I hope this overview has helped demystify the many styles of Japanese massage. Each one – Shiatsu massage, Kobido facial massage, Seitai, Ashiatsu and more – has its own approach to helping you feel relaxed and balanced. If you’re interested in trying any of these, remember they should be done by a trained therapist.
In particular, if you’re in or near Croydon and want to experience Japanese massage techniques, feel free to get in touch with Norma.
Norma is an expert Shiatsu therapist who offers compassionate, caring Shiatsu massages tailored to your needs. She’d be delighted to help you unwind and feel better.
Just contact Norma today to book your next Shiatsu session or to ask about how Japanese massage might benefit you!
About The Author
Norma is a highly experienced and dedicated Shiatsu Practitioner with over a decade of expertise in holistic therapies. She qualified in 2010 after completing an intensive three-year programme at the British School of Shiatsu-Do in London. As a proud member of the Shiatsu Society, Norma adheres to the highest professional standards, ensuring trustworthy and effective care. Beyond Shiatsu Massage, her comprehensive practice includes Reiki and Japanese Facial Rejuvenation Massage, allowing her to offer a truly holistic approach to well-being. Norma's passion lies in creating a peaceful space where clients can find balance and benefit from therapeutic touch, nurturing their body, mind, and spirit.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why do people choose Japanese massage over other treatments?
Many people turn to Japanese massage because it offers more than just muscle relief — it focuses on restoring a natural sense of balance. It can feel grounding, soothing and deeply nurturing, helping to ease physical strain while calming the mind. This approach often appeals to those who want something gentler and more connected than a standard spa or sports massage, without losing its effectiveness.
2. Can Japanese massage help with stress and overwhelm?
Yes — many styles gently encourage the nervous system to slow down, making it easier to release tension that builds from everyday stress. Rather than pushing the body, the techniques invite it to soften. People often describe feeling calmer, more centred, and more present after a session. Over time, this can support better sleep, clearer thinking and greater emotional resilience.
3. Is Japanese massage suitable for everyone?
Most people can benefit, though it’s always wise to share any health concerns before starting. Sessions can be adapted for a range of needs, whether you’re looking for gentle relaxation or more focused bodywork. Those with medical conditions, recent injuries or pregnancy may need adjustments to ensure comfort and safety. A good therapist will always tailor the approach to meet you where you are.
4. What can I expect to feel during a treatment?
A Japanese massage session often feels slower and more intentional than other styles. You might notice warmth spreading through your muscles, gentle waves of relaxation, or a lightness afterwards. Some people feel sleepy, others quietly energised. The key is that your body is guided, not forced — so the sensations are usually comfortable, steady and deeply restorative.
5. How soon might I notice a difference after my first session?
Many people feel a shift straight away — perhaps looser shoulders, an easier breath or a calmer mood. The effects can also build gently over the hours or days that follow. If received regularly, the benefits often become more lasting. Rather than a ‘quick fix’, Japanese massage tends to encourage gradual, sustainable change in how the body holds and releases tension.
6. How should I prepare before my appointment?
There’s no need for anything complicated. Wearing soft, comfortable clothing is helpful for many Japanese massage styles, as some treatments are done fully clothed. Try to arrive a little early so you don’t feel rushed. Avoid eating a heavy meal just beforehand, and drink some water afterwards to support circulation and recovery.
7. What makes choosing a well-trained therapist important?
The techniques may look simple, but they require skill and sensitivity. A trained therapist knows how to apply the right pressure, read subtle changes in the body, and adapt their approach to your needs. This ensures not only that the massage is effective, but also that it’s safe and respectful. A skilled practitioner creates a space where you can truly let go and trust the process.
