Seitai, step by step

Your first session.

Small rooms, one sensei, and time to be heard. Here's what usually happens, from the moment you arrive to the moment you leave.

From the door to the table.

At the doorSalons are small and often private, with just you and your sensei.
They listenYour sensei asks what's bothering you, since when, and how your days go. If you're using a translation app, have this ready in Japanese.
They lookThey check your posture and how you move, and may tell you what they see.
They workYou lie on the table, and their hands work across your whole body, not only where it hurts.
They explainAt the end, your sensei may tell you what they found and suggest simple things for daily life. Then you pay and head out.

Based on how Kazuaki Kawada and Akihiro Nakamura describe their first visits. Every sensei does it a little differently.

For a standard first session, as listed on each salon's own site. Checked in November 2026, so please confirm when you write.

Sensei	Length	Fee	Payment
Takuro NakajimaOta, Gunma	Not published	Not published	Not published
Kazuaki KawadaKawasaki, near Tokyo	About 55 minutes, plus a first assessment	¥13,000	Cash or major credit cards
Ren YajimaYokohama	About 60 minutes	¥8,000	Cash, credit cards, transit IC cards or QR payment
Kenta YamanakaNagoya	About 75 minutes	¥8,500	Cash only
Akihiro NakamuraHimeji, Hyogo	About 60 minutes	¥8,800	Cashless payment acceptedFirst visits are limited to two people a day.
Yoshikazu YamashitaOkayama	60 minutes	¥8,800	Not published

Will it hurt?: Kenta Yamanaka says his work stays between pleasant and a good ache. Akihiro Nakamura says cranial work is so light that most people fall asleep. If anything feels too strong, tell your sensei.
What should I wear?: Loose, comfortable clothes. Kazuaki Kawada recommends them, and says you're welcome to bring a change of clothes. Ask your salon if you're not sure.
What should I tell them about my health?: Mention any recent injury, surgery or pregnancy, and anything you're being treated for.
Will someone crack my joints?: Kazuaki Kawada, Kenta Yamanaka and Akihiro Nakamura all say they don't. If it matters to you, ask your sensei before you start.

Start from where you are, then write to the salon directly.