I focus on creating styles that are simple, elegant, and well-balanced.

When I asked Kiho Watanabe about Haruyuki, she said, "I've known Haruyuki since I was about 15. I've watched his work all this time, and in a word, he's skilled. Truly skilled, and with such refinement. I've unofficially named him 'The King of Basics.' Even the way his hands move when he uses scissors is so beautiful, I'm still captivated by it. He's also good-looking (laughs), and he's a top stylist I can recommend to anyone. He has the sense to discern the style that truly suits each person, so he offers precise advice."

—What inspired you to choose this profession?

It was quite simple. I wanted to learn a trade. Being the youngest of three brothers, I was allowed to do as I pleased, but my father passed away early, and my eldest brother gave up on university to work. Watching my brother like that, I think I had a strong desire to start working myself. Around that time, I was influenced by a salon I happened to visit, and I thought this kind of work looked enjoyable. That's how it started.

—What are your specialty and favorite styles?

I like elegant styles. Bob bases, short styles, things like that. I always focus on creating styles that are simple, elegant, and well-balanced. I also have many male clients. About 30% are men. So, I'm also very skilled at men's short haircuts.

—Do you have a motto or any principles you follow in your work?

It's about understanding the client's preferences and creating a style accordingly. For that, communication skills are essential. I often tell my staff that you need to be able to stand slightly above the client's perspective for them to listen to us. Therefore, I feel it's important to be interested in various things, gain diverse experiences, and develop persuasive communication.

Confidence Gained from Contest Victory and the Charm of Kiho Watanabe

—What is the most memorable episode you've had so far?

Not long after I started this job, around age 23, I entered the industry's biggest contest and won first place in Japan. Then, I participated in the world competition as a representative of Japan. It was held in Verona, Italy, and the company (uka's predecessor, EXCeL) allowed me to stay for about a month and a half, including the competition period. It was a wonderful experience, and it's still valuable today. For example, my involvement in seminars and workshops outside the salon is given more weight because of that major contest victory. It has also boosted my confidence.

—Please tell us about any favorite cosmetics, beauty devices, or tools you use.

First and foremost, my scissors. I can't do without them. Also, the 'T3 dryer,' which we use at uka salons. This dryer dries hair incredibly quickly and leaves it with a beautiful shine. It's an exceptional dryer.

—What has moved you recently (or what books, movies, etc. have moved you)?

A little while ago, I was deeply impressed by a Kabuki performance I saw at the Kabuki-za Theatre. Everything from the stage setup to the bag designs was magnificent. The quality of each actor's kimono was extremely high, and of course, their performances were moving. I even shed a tear during Kanzaburo's seppuku scene (laughs).

—What is the charm of uka?

uka has departments for nails, hair, head therapy, aesthetics, bridal, and reception, and each staff member is dedicated to self-improvement and skill development. Therefore, I believe all staff members share a strong sense of being a collective of specialists.

—What is the charm of Kiho Watanabe?

She has great taste, and she's very particular. I think that's her greatest charm. For example, when the Midtown store's opening was decided, she was incredibly meticulous about everything from the interior to the small details. She checked the comfort and reclining angle of the chairs customers would sit in, down to the centimeter. Even in the development of the nail oil launched last year, she was uncompromising about the oil, the packaging, and even the sales strategy. That's why we were able to create such a wonderful product.

—Finally, what are your goals for this year?

I believe the 'uka' brand cannot shine unless our staff shine, so I want to closely support each individual's growth. Outside of salon work, I'm thinking about developing hair care products as a follow-up to the nail oil.

<uka x OPENERS Special Project>
uka Hiroo Store
Top Stylist Haruyuki Iwaya
Service: Cut & Blow + Scalp Cleansing
Time: Approx. 60-90 minutes (treatment time varies depending on hair length)
Price: ¥11,500 (Sold exclusively on the web shopping site 'rumors')

Top Stylist Haruyuki Iwaya
Hometown: Kanagawa Prefecture
Zodiac Sign: Gemini
Hobby: Work (laughs)

uka Hiroo Store
2F, Hiroo Garden, 4-1-29 Minami-Azabu, Minato-ku, Tokyo
Tel. 03-3449-0421
www.uka.co.jp