These are the Hottest Nail Trends Coming Out of Tokyo for 2018
- Written by: Delilah Romasanta
Walking around Tokyo, it’s no surprise that the Asian metropolis is one of the fashion capitals of the world. Men and women are dressed to the nines, and their nails are on unbelievable. On November 12th and 13th, Japan’s hottest nail salons and nail artists gathered at Tokyo Big Sight Convention Center in Odaiba to show off the newest trends and techniques hitting the streets this season. The Tokyo Nail Expo, the largest in the world, attracts nail artists and enthusiasts from all over the world and features shows, demonstrations, classes, and more! Here are six of Tokyo’s biggest nail trends to look out for:
Pink is the New Black


Nothing is more feminine than pink, and this season you can expect to see this girly fav all over the place. The Japan Nailst Association featured all different shades, from bright fuschias to orangey corals, but the season picks are the softer shades of diamond pink, flamingo pink, spiritual pink, and shell pink.
3D Design


Tokyo has long been known for their 3D nail art, and you’ll definitely see plenty this season. Continuing with the feminine feel, nail artists are adding detailed flowers as well as gems and pearls. This season is seeing a bit more modesty, and 3D art is used to accent two or three nails rather than all five as you might’ve seen in the past.
It’s all in the Details


Nail art this season is a lot more intricate with illustrative motifs seen throughout the Expo. Flowers, foliage, and even anime characters are trending! And knitwear-inspired patterns like houndstooth add that extra texture this season.
Set in Stone



Bring the minimalist/Scandi aesthetic to your mani with stone-like designs this season. Nails that looked like marble, quartz, and agate were all over the place. Metallic gels or gold and silver foil bring a bit of bling to an otherwise zen design.
Make it Magnetic

One cool and new technology at the Nail Expo was a magnetic nail manicure. This gel nail mani has magnetic particles that allow you to clip on accessories! So, you can have a more understated manicure at the office and then pop on a few magnetic accessories for cocktail hour! It’s the ultimate way to change your mani when you have no time. Be on the lookout for this up-and-coming style!
The Airbrushed Look


Get the airbrushed look on your nails with the latest airgel technology. This exciting new technique uses an airbrush to create perfect ombrés and precise designs using a special gel formula. Best of all, airgel offers a faster way to gorgeous nails!
The Tokyo Nail Expo 2017 introduced exciting nail designs and techniques for the upcoming season. Make sure to visit Tokyo for cutting-edge manis, and try one of these trendy styles the next time you visit the salon.
Delilah is a Tokyo-based freelance copywriter, content creator, and artist. Published online and in print, she helps brands communicate with engaging visuals and quality copy. When she's not working, this New York expat enjoys spending her time discovering new places with her husband. You can find out more about Delilah and her work on her website, www.fleurdelilah.com.
*Prices and options mentioned are subject to change.
*Unless stated otherwise, all prices include tax.
Popular Tours & Activities
Recommended places for you
-
Goods
Yoshida Gennojo-Roho Kyoto Buddhist Altars
Gift Shops
Nijo Castle, Kyoto Imperial Palace
-
Appealing
Rukku and Uohei
Izakaya
Sapporo / Chitose
-
Tokyo Metropolitan Government
Landmarks
Shinjuku
-
Akiu Onsen
Hot Springs (Onsen) & Bath Houses (Sento)
Sendai And Matsushima
-
Jukuseiniku-to Namamottsuarera Nikubaru Italian Nikutaria Sannomiya
Izakaya
Kobe, Sannomiya, Kitano
-
ISHIDAYA Hanare
Yakiniku
Kobe, Sannomiya, Kitano
-
Cracked Phone Screen in Japan? Smahospital Repair Guide: Keep Your Data, Fixed in 15 Min, Multilingual Support | Up to 10,000 Yen Off with LIVE JAPAN Coupon
-
5 Stationery Shops in Shinjuku: One Walking Route for Art Supplies, Suica Penguin Gifts, and More
-
[Starting Spring 2027] Japan's Railways Evolve Further! Why Tickets Are Changing to "QR Tickets" and a Riding Guide for Foreign Visitors
by: Guest Contributor
-
(Japan Travel Etiquette) Eyes Up! Why You Shouldn't Walk and Scroll in Japanese Train Stations
by: Guest Contributor
-
Seibu Group Launches New Chichibu Adventure Tourism Experience for International Travelers in 2026
by: Guest Contributor
-
BicCamera Tax Refund 2026: Refund Service Fee 0 Yen
-
Osaka Night Life: 8 Osaka Clubs Getting the Party Started
by: WESTPLAN
-
Atami 1-Day Itinerary: Exploring Japan's Castle & Hot Springs Resort Town Near Tokyo!
-
5 Best Pokemon Centers and Pokemon Stores in Tokyo: Catch Them All!
-
Beyond the Guidebook: 5 Expats Share Their Favorite Halloween Traditions in Japan!
by: Nina Cataldo
-
Japan's North Has Such a Sweet Tooth! Checking Out Kitakaro Sapporo's Amazing Selection
-
Autumn in Japan 2026: Latest Fall Foliage Forecast & Where to Enjoy the Colorful Leaves (+Tour Info)
- #best sushi japan
- #what to do in odaiba
- #what to bring to japan
- #new years in tokyo
- #best ramen japan
- #what to buy in ameyoko
- #japanese nail trends
- #things to do japan
- #onsen tattoo friendly tokyo
- #daiso
- #best coffee japan
- #best japanese soft drinks
- #best yakiniku japan
- #japanese fashion culture
- #japanese convenience store snacks













