Why a Japanese Head Spa Is the Ultimate Relaxation Experience

By

Katy O’Regan

Three years ago, while backpacking through Vietnam, I stumbled across one of the most relaxing experiences I’ve ever had - completely by accident.

After travelling from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City over three weeks, living out of a backpack and spending countless hours on buses, trains and planes, I was more than ready to unwind. Near our hotel was a Japanese head spa, and on a whim I booked an appointment. By the time I left, I understood why these treatments have such a devoted following. In fact, I was so hooked that I squeezed in four treatments over the final three days of my trip.

When I returned to the UK, I was determined to find somewhere offering the same experience, but discovering a genuine Japanese head spa locally wasn’t easy. So, when I recently found out that The Beauty Barn at Lowes Farm in Byley was offering the treatment, I booked in straight away.

From the moment I arrived, I knew I was in good hands. Katie instantly put me at ease, and the peaceful surroundings made it easy to leave the outside world behind. The treatment itself was every bit as luxurious as I remembered from Vietnam. Gentle warm water flowed through my hair as Katie expertly combined cleansing with an incredible scalp, neck, shoulder, hand and arm massage. Every stage felt thoughtfully designed to help me completely switch off. It wasn’t just relaxing - it was immersive.

Japanese head spa treatments have their roots in centuries-old wellness traditions. Head massage has long been part of Japanese culture through practices such as Anma, a traditional form of massage that incorporates techniques for the scalp and head. Over time, these methods evolved into the modern head spa - a treatment that focuses not only on relaxation but on overall physical, mental and emotional wellbeing.

In Japanese philosophy, the head is considered a sacred part of the body, believed to house both the mind and spirit. Caring for the scalp is thought to help restore balance and encourage the healthy flow of ki, or life energy, throughout the body. Historically, these treatments were more than a luxury; they were therapeutic rituals passed down through generations, blending skilled massage techniques with holistic healing practices.

Beauty and wellness are closely connected in Japan, where a healthy scalp is seen as the foundation for healthy, beautiful hair. The massage helps stimulate circulation, promote scalp health and leave your hair feeling refreshed, while the overall experience provides something that’s becoming increasingly rare - the chance to truly disconnect.

As someone who thought I’d have to travel halfway around the world to experience another Japanese head spa, I couldn’t have been happier to discover this hidden gem on my doorstep. Katie has recreated the sense of calm and care that made me fall in love with the treatment in Vietnam, while adding her own warm, welcoming touch.

If you’re looking for an hour or so of pure escapism, or simply want to experience one of Japan’s most treasured wellness rituals for yourself, I can’t recommend The Beauty Barn at Lowes Farm in Byley highly enough. I already know it won’t be my last visit.

All information correct as of September 2026.