Massage is Part of the Entertainment

—The first thing that surprised me was, why would a toy maker like Medicom Toy open a 'massage salon'?

Everyone around me was surprised.
I used to go for massages frequently, and I really loved the feeling of refreshment after the session.
That's when it suddenly occurred to me, 'Isn't massage also a form of entertainment?'
It's similar to the feeling you get after watching a great movie or holding a well-made toy. I thought, 'This could be called 'Healing Entertainment.''


So, I first proposed 'opening a massage salon' at an internal company meeting. Everyone was initially hesitant, but when I explained the reasoning – 'Massage is entertainment' – they seemed to find it surprisingly convincing (laughs).

I believe that top-tier entertainment, regardless of genre, is interconnected. Therefore, I consider massage, which is a form of body maintenance, to be a valid genre of entertainment in itself.

The massage beds feature original towels and linen sheets, while the pajamas and slippers for changing, as well as the sofa cushions at the front, are handled by 'FABRICK®,' which we featured previously. Additionally, the bird motif on the restroom doors is crafted by Medicom Toy's modeling team, 'PERFECT STUDIO.' These details showcase the unique craftsmanship of Medicom Toy.

—Could you tell us about the background of 'ryuryu's' establishment?

Our vice president was so impressed with the skills of a particular massage therapist (who is now the director of 'ryuryu') that he frequented their clinic for three years. I was also helped by this therapist when I had a severe back strain; it felt like my life was saved (laughs). That was our first encounter.
Our connection continued, and at a opportune moment, the idea of opening a salon together progressed.

We aim to develop products that are essential for individual lives, beyond the realms of food, clothing, and shelter.
'Toys,' for us, are also positioned as necessities for fulfilling individual lives. The same applies to fashion preferences and interior design choices. In this vein, we considered relaxation and body maintenance through massage to be essential, and decided to embark on this challenge for ourselves.

However, above all, it was the director's skill that truly captivated us. While there might be individual massage therapists one can recommend, it's difficult to recommend a 'place.' Therefore, we wanted to create a place where both the people and the establishment are recommendable.

—What exactly is it about this 'skill' that impressed you so much?

While I wouldn't say it changes your entire concept of massage, it's a 'massage that allows you to understand your own body.'
When the director said, 'I want to focus on body maintenance,' as we were starting the salon, I understood immediately.
Massage often focuses on relieving pain (which is, of course, necessary), but understanding your body's condition and performing maintenance before issues arise is something many people neglect. This skill teaches the importance of such practices. We hope that by first understanding their own bodies, our clients will be motivated to engage in their own maintenance.

—For example, who would you recommend this to?

I believe many of OPENERS' readers and contributors appear younger than their actual age, perhaps due to their appearance.
Like myself, even if we feel energetic, our bodies might actually be showing signs of wear. We particularly want to welcome busy individuals like these. Body maintenance helps maintain good physical condition, allowing you to work even harder.

The pillows are 'Tempur®,' and the pillow covers use GORE's 'GORE-HEALTH CARE FABRICS®,' a result of past collaborations. The staff uniforms are designed by 'NEXUSⅦ®,' using a stretchy material similar to jersey for ease of movement during treatments. The space features five rooms, partitioned into semi-private areas with wooden frames and curtains in calming colors.

—I had a chance to see the interior, and it seems many of the brands you've collaborated with in the past have contributed. While perhaps not fate, it feels almost miraculous.

Precisely. For instance, all the pillows and bolsters used for the head, chest, and feet are from Tempur®, the pillow covers are from GORE's GORE-HEALTH CARE FABRICS®, and the staff uniforms designed by NEXUSⅦ®, along with Karuimoku chairs – 'ryuryu' was completed with the support of brands we've worked with on numerous past projects.
Furthermore, 'ryuryu' generates feedback for various projects, leading to a very positive operational dynamic for the entire company.

—It would be fascinating if top-tier entertainment continues to connect in this manner in the future.

Isn't it incredibly enjoyable when something you want to do becomes your work, perhaps through encounters with people?
Of course, work involves many challenges, but as Marc Jacobs said, 'Being able to continue doing what you want is the happiest thing.'
Persistence is truly strength and a treasure. We are always genuinely thinking about how to continue doing what we love, have it lead to profit, and enjoy our work.

And we would be deeply moved if people were surprised, thinking, 'Medicom Toy is doing something interesting again!' We want to continue offering such surprises.



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