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getting a Japanese haircut

the journal of Michael Werneburg

twenty-seven years and one million words

Tokyo, 2010.05.06

I took my brother for a haircut today. It was his first in the country, and he really enjoyed the experience. But then, who doesn't like scalp massage.

We went to my usual place, "Hair Soyuz" in Gotanda. It is, incidentally, an excellent bellweather for the local economy, and things seem to be picking up again after a horribly slow 2009. So much so that we had to make appointments rather than just choosing a time as I could last year. I'm glad to see it.

My brother came away from his hour in the chair with his hair cut and shampoo'd; his neck, scalp, shoulders, and back massaged; his sideburns shaved with a razor (the first time anyone else had shaved him, remarkably); and a Japanese hair style that he thought was "too young" but which Mari and I agreed suited him.

Three good things that happened today:

1. fine day for a stroll to Gotanda

2. sorted out an important business situation

3. showed my brother a slice of life in Tokyo

rand()m quote

When I look back at life I see that I kept the good scotch to myself. I regret that. Pour the good scotch for your guests.

—Dr. Kenneth M. Johnston (1920 - 1999)