The Japanese head spa has hit Australia – here's where to try it

Why is everyone obsessed with Japanese head spas? And what does it actually do? We cover the what, why, how and where of the world’s latest wellness trend.

In an age of chronic burnout and endless overstimulation, it’s no wonder wellness tourism is on the rise. Over the past few years, a range of viral trends have landed on Australian shores – from run clubs and silent retreats to juice cleanses and cold plunges – all promising optimisation and transformation.

While some are supported by science and others are driven purely by TikTok hype, the aim remains the same: peak relaxation with tangible results. In 2026, the latest trend is the Japanese head spa, a scalp-focused treatment designed to deliver a full body reset – and it actually works.

The Japanese head spa explained

Woman getting a head massage — The treatment blends ancient medicine with modern technology. (Credit: Getty Images/Maroke)

Originating in Japan, head spa therapy is deeply rooted in holistic health care and personal well-being. And while it’s only recently become popular in contemporary Western culture, the practice dates back centuries. It’s derived from Anma, a traditional therapeutic massage that focuses on kneading deep tissue to improve circulation, reduce pain and promote relaxation.

Drawing on other cultural traditions like Indian Ayurveda and Balinese cream baths, Anma techniques were then specifically adapted for the head and scalp. The massage continued to evolve during Japan’s Meiji Restoration between 1868 and 1889, as modernisation efforts saw traditional practices incorporate Western influences.

Blending ancient medicine and modern technology, the Japanese head spa transformed into a 21st-century wellness experience, backed by over three decades of hands-on expertise and real-world application. Alongside massage techniques, additions like hair masks, exfoliating scrubs, Gua Sha combs and steam machines were also introduced to enhance the experience.

Man gets Japanese head spa treament with water halo in view — The water halo is an essential tool used in the treatment. (Credit: Getty Images/Marsell Gorska Gautier)

However, it’s the water halo that has become synonymous with Japanese head spas, a circular fixture that is secured above the head. Through a series of small holes, it releases a gentle yet constant stream of water onto the scalp, inducing a deep state of calm. It also resembles the sound of a babbling brook, which further amplifys the soothing ambience.

Today, the Japanese head spa is commonly referred to as ‘a facial for your scalp’ – but its benefits travel well beyond your noggin, too. Yes, your luscious locks are the main focus. The treatment provides a deep scalp detox, removing dead skin, drawing out product build-up, resetting sebaceous glands (responsible for oil production) and stimulating follicles to boost hair growth.

But the gains go even deeper. By engaging the head, spa therapists can encourage tension relief in the neck and shoulders, improved blood circulation, reduced facial swelling/puffiness and healthier skin. The deep relaxation it induces may also result in better sleep and increased mental clarity.

Where can you try it out?

To keep up with emerging trends and increased demand, wellness spaces across Australia have added the Japanese head spa to their offerings. From brand-new bathhouses in Byron Bay to Sydney’s best day spas, here are the top spots to experience it yourself.

Eden Retreat

Eden Retreat on the Gold Coast has recently introduced the Japanese head spa as a 55-minute or 85-minute treatment. Both include a purifying cleanse and shampoo, signature scalp massage, hair mask with steam and a refreshing rinse. Guests opting for the extended ritual also receive a mini facial.

Tokyo Headspa

Tokyo Headspa has firmly planted itself along Australia’s east coast, with three locations in Sydney, two in Brisbane and one in Melbourne. Every guest is well catered for, with everything from introductory offerings and deluxe rituals to hair-growth therapies and specific sessions for men.

The Scalp Spa

Woman getting warm oil massaged into scalp — Scalp analysis and warm oil therapy is part of the experience at some salons. (Credit: Getty Images/Miljko)

With branches in Sydney and Canberra, The Scalp Spa is renowned for its signature ‘Scalpcials’ – a portmanteau of scalp and facial. Treatments have been carefully designed to refresh and restore, leaving you feeling completely rejuvenated. The extensive menu even includes a warm oil therapy and scalp analysis.

The Head Spa Perth

The Head Spa Perth is the city’s first luxury head spa offering, and it’s setting the bar high. Dedicated entirely to scalp and hair care, guests can expect tailored treatments that promise quiet restoration. Whether you choose the two-hour Signature Head Spa or the full Bloom & Glow Ritual, you’re in for a blissful afternoon.

Peppy’s Face & Scalp Co.

The only holistic scalp therapist in Hobart, Peppy’s Face & Scalp Co. offers an extensive Japanese head spa treatment with a sustainable and non-toxic philosophy. The soothing experience includes over 20 different scalp brushes, herbal steam, aromatherapy, hair masks and waterfall therapy.

How to prepare for your appointment

Woman receiving a head massage — Arrive without makeup as some salons include facial treatments as part of their offering. (Credit: Getty Images/Miljko)

If you’ve never experienced a Japanese head spa, you might be wondering what exactly to expect. Although individual offerings can vary, the practice is deeply rooted in Japanese tradition, meaning most venues adhere to a similar framework. First, opt for comfy clothes and leave the jewellery at home.

As tempting as it may be, avoid washing your hair beforehand. Arriving with your hair in its most natural state ensures the process can address its true condition. The treatment is designed to do the work –removing dead skin, product residue and build-up for you. Don’t worry about wearing make-up either, as facial cleansers and lotions may be used.

Be sure to arrive a little earlier than your appointment time, as you’ll most likely need to fill out a consultation form prior to treatment. This is the perfect opportunity to let the venue know of any questions, concerns, allergies and areas to avoid.

During the treatment, your spa therapist will ensure you’re completely comfortable, cocooning you in soft towels and protecting your eyes. Should you feel any discomfort, speak up. Otherwise, all that’s left to do is inhale, exhale and let go – the hype will all make sense when you’re under the halo.

Whether you’re after the perfect family holiday or after something a little more romantic, Accor has the stay for you.

Nothing sets the tone of your holiday quite like the accommodation you’ve chosen. After all, who can imagine a wellness retreat without an on-site day spa, or a sprawling family resort without a kids’ club (or babysitting service)? The truth is there are as many ways to holiday as there are types of travellers – but happily, there’s accommodation for every type of traveller.

Fun family holidays

A successful family holiday requires plenty of space – not to mention essential amenities, like a fully equipped kitchen and laundry, a central location near plenty of activities and attractions, and those all-important beaches. The following properties all fit the bill and were designed with kids in mind.

1. Peppers Beach Club Port Douglas

inside room at Peppers Beach Club Port Douglas — Peppers Beach Club Port Douglas is perfect for a family getaway.

Will it be a day of snorkelling the Great Barrier Reef, horse riding along the golden sands of Cape Tribulation, or trying your hand at watersports at Four Mile Beach? For those checked in at Peppers Beach Club Port Douglas , the correct answer can only ever be ‘all of the above’ – but only if you can convince the kids to get out of the hotel’s lagoon-style swimming pool.

Featuring one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments (some with private swim-up pool decks), the hotel is also conveniently located moments from the town centre.

2. Novotel Sydney on Darling Harbour

Kids’ club: the two words most parents of little ones long to hear. With Novotel Sydney on Darling Harbour , however, that’s only the beginning. This eco-friendly hotel (which is famous for its spacious rooms) pulls out all the stops, serving up a 10-metre outdoor pool, tennis court and a signature restaurant, The Ternary .

Located in the heart of Sydney’s vibrant Darling Harbour precinct, the hotel is steps from WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo , SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium and the Australian National Maritime Museum .

3. Mantra on Salt Beach Kingscliff

Mantra On Salt pool — The Tweed offers the best of both worlds.

When the kids are screaming ‘Gold Coast theme parks’ but your body needs a little Byron Bay downtime, the answer arrives in the form of Mantra on Salt Beach Kingscliff , an airy resort located in The Tweed. Some of Queensland and New South Wales’s top beaches and attractions are only a short drive away.

Featuring one- and two-bedroom suites, a tennis court and a lagoon-style pool (plus a children’s wading pool), guests also have the option to rent a bike, book a treatment at the onsite day spa, or organise child-minding for date night.

Couples getaways

Remember those candlelit dinners when you first got together? Or what about those long walks along the beach and lazy sleep-ins – complete with room service?

If you’re still searching your memory, it’s time to hit reboot on romance by booking a hotel geared around good food, good times and more than a little privacy.

1. Sofitel Melbourne On Collins

inside room at Sofitel Melbourne — Soak in the gorgeous view.

Located in the heart of Melbourne’s shopping and theatre districts, there’s every reason those checking into Sofitel Melbourne On Collins will want to head out and explore. A night in, however, can mean a champagne or signature cocktail (or two) at The Atrium Bar on 35 before an intimate feast at No35 , where French gastronomy reaches new heights.

Top tip? Book the Romance Getaway Package , which includes a bottle of French champagne, breakfast in bed and a leisurely 2pm check out.

2. Mondrian Gold Coast

inside a room at The Mondrian — Enjoy classy surrounds at The Mondrian.

The Gold Coast suburb of Burleigh has all the ingredients needed for a romantic escape. And the best place to explore it all from is the stunning beachfront lifestyle precinct, Mondrian Gold Coast .

Stay in one of 208 accommodation options, including studios, suites, homes and houses. Taste your way through the levels of dining options, from authentic Italian and surf-to-plate seafood, and dive into the lively pool club. Or relax with a restorative treatment together at the spa.

City escapes

Nabbing a front-row seat to urban life (and momentarily feeling like a local) is as easy as checking into a city hotel and letting the streets around you set the pace for your next holiday.

Laidback retreats and coastal getaways will always have their place, but here you can step straight into galleries and boutique stores, roll into restaurants and tumble out of bars – all before watching the sun rise across a gleaming skyline.

A convenient location, of course, is key.

1. 25hours Hotel The Olympia

25hours Sydney Atrium — Book into Sydney’s newest boutique spot.

Hotels are all too often about retreating from the city they’re located in, but at Sydney’s newest boutique spot, 25hours Hotel Sydney The Olympia , a stay is all about immersing yourself in the area. Channelling the energy and creativity of its Oxford Street location, the hotel’s bold and playful design is a nod to the building’s arthouse beginnings as West’s Olympia Theatre. Guests can choose to stay in either a light and airy Dreamers room or the more dramatic Renegades option.

This is home to two stand-out bars (one of them on the rooftop) and a cafe serving Lune croissants, as well as The Palomar , a hot dining spot that serves as a love letter to the Mediterranean.

2. Hyde Melbourne Place

Some of Melbourne’s finest restaurants might be on Hyde Melbourne Place’s doorstep, but there’s no need for guests to venture out the front door for a bite to remember. The innovative brand’s first Australian offering is not only home to three distinctive venues (including an atmospheric rooftop restaurant), but is also the winner of a Michelin Key 2025.

Conveniently located in the east end of the city’s CBD within moments of the city’s iconic laneways, accommodation ranges from a soothing General Admission Queen to the spectacular Headliner Suite (many with balconies overlooking the city buzzing below). A high-end fitness space and Peach Pilates streamed straight to your in-room tablet are available too. Our top tip? Call ahead for a Sonna Brightening LED Face Mask and say yes to winding down with a meditative ritual designed to support skin health, clarity and calm.

Tranquil retreats

There’s no question 2026 is going to be your year, but it would be foolish to hard-launch this new and improved you without first taking some time to relax, rejuvenate and reflect on how you can find better balance in the year to come.

It’s time to treat yourself to a wellness getaway that’s designed around peace, natural beauty and more than a few spa treatments.

1. Pullman Bunker Bay Resort

Pullman Bunker Bay pool — Relax into Pullman Bunker Bay Resort.

Kangaroos at dawn, Margaret River wineries at noon and a long evening of life-affirming massage treatment come the late afternoon; there’s a lot to love about a stay at Pullman Bunker Bay Resort . And that’s without even touching on the resort’s secluded beachfront location.

Whether you check into a studio villa or a three-bedroom, three-bathroom villa, the views stretching out over the lake or garden will help you hit reset as you ponder the important questions: should you take a drive to nearby Geographe Bay to enjoy the dive of a lifetime, settle in for a long and lazy day in the resort’s heated infinity-edge pool, or make booking after booking at Vie Spa to try its extensive range of massages, facials and treatments?

The cherry on top? The resort has a complimentary – albeit seasonal – kids’ club, too.

2. Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge

couple in spa at Peppers Cradle Mountain — Connect with yourself and nature at Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge.

Welcome to the ultimate alpine wellness experience, a luxurious lodge nestled in the lush peaks of Tasmania’s World Heritage-listed Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, where ‘forest bathing’ takes on a whole new meaning.

Offering quick and easy access to some of the region’s most iconic walking trails (not to mention a window to our most striking flora and fauna), every cabin and suite at Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge – some with their own fireplace – is designed to help you exhale.

Say yes to a wealth of included activities, such as an evening wildlife safari, a guided Crater Lake mountain walk or the Aboriginal Heritage & Bush Tucker tour. Unwind by retreating to the famous Waldheim Alpine Spa , where treatment rooms overlook rugged mountains and ancient forests.

Wellness has never looked – or felt – so luxurious.

Learn more and plan your next escape at All.com .

The viral Japanese head spa trend has hit Australia – here’s where to try it