Translation guide
Reflexology is a type of massage focused on pressure points in the feet, hands, or ears, believed to correspond to other parts of the body. In Japanese, it is usually referred to by the loanword リフレクソロジー, but related terms like 足つぼマッサージ (foot pressure point massage) are more common in everyday contexts.
reflexology
Often called 足つぼマッサージ in casual contexts.
The practice of applying pressure to specific points on the feet, hands, or ears to promote health.
The direct loanword from English, widely understood in wellness and spa contexts. Use this when referring to the formal practice.
I went to a reflexology salon.
Literally 'foot pressure point massage'. This is the most common way to refer to reflexology in everyday Japanese, especially when focusing on the feet. It is more casual and widely recognized than リフレクソロジー.
Getting a foot reflexology massage is very relaxing.
Means 'sole massage'. Often used interchangeably with 足つぼマッサージ, but may not emphasize pressure points as strongly.
A sole massage shop opened in front of the station.
Referring to reflexology in a medical or therapeutic context, often involving specific techniques.
The formal Japanese translation, meaning 'reflex therapy'. Used in medical or academic contexts, but less common in everyday conversation.
Reflexology stimulates specific points on the feet.
From 'zone therapy', an older term sometimes used synonymously with reflexology. Rare and mostly found in specialized literature.
In daily conversation, Japanese speakers usually say 足つぼマッサージ or 足裏マッサージ when talking about foot reflexology. リフレクソロジー is common in spa menus and wellness articles, but may sound slightly technical. For hand or ear reflexology, specify the body part, e.g., 手のリフレクソロジー (hand reflexology).
Zone therapy is said to be the precursor to reflexology.