Prickly yet Soothing: Japan’s 1.86 Million Won Acupuncture Craze That’s Rolling Out the Red Carpet for Wellness
Japanese Celebrities Flock to Unique Acupuncture Treatment
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A Form of Acupuncture Gains Popularity in Japan
A unique form of acupuncture that involves the use of multiple needles on the face, chest, and other areas is gaining popularity in Japan, particularly among celebrities.
According to a recent report by the South China Morning Post (SCMP), Japanese celebrities are flocking to this form of traditional Chinese medicine, which involves inserting needles along the body’s meridian points. The treatment is said to last at least 30 minutes and costs a staggering 200,000 yen (approximately 1.86 million won).
Japanese actor Masataka Kubota recently shared a photo of himself undergoing the treatment on social media. The photo shows Kubota lying on a bed with needles inserted into his forehead, chest, and other areas. Kubota described the experience as “unique” and “thrilling,” stating that it was the first treatment that had pushed him to his limits.
Other Japanese celebrities, including actress Mami Kumagai, singer Hiromi Ko, and gymnast Ryusei Nishioka, have also undergone similar acupuncture treatments. Table tennis player Ai Furuhara shared a photo of herself with needles stuck in the back of her head, joking that there were “scarier things” she could have posted.
The acupuncturist who performed the treatment on Kubota, Shirakawa, claims that this type of treatment not only cures illnesses but also helps visitors improve spiritually, turning misfortune into good fortune. However, netizens have responded with skepticism, questioning the effectiveness and safety of the treatment.
Some have expressed concerns about the large number of needles used in the treatment, with one commenter stating that “a real doctor uses the minimum amount of needles to achieve maximum results.” Others have joked that the treatment makes the celebrities look like “hedgehogs.”
Despite the controversy, the treatment remains popular among Japanese celebrities, who are drawn to its promise of spiritual and physical benefits.
