Discover the art and culture of Japanese reflexology paths in our latest JRPass article. 
Introduction
Imagine coming across a winding path of uneven stones—each step you take is painful, but strangely invigorating. This is a reflexology path, or ashitsubo rodo, designed to stimulate pressure points on feet much like acupuncture does for other parts of the body. In Japan, they’re a unique feature that can be found in some of the country’s public spaces, from parks and roadside stations to hot spring resorts and even temples - you're almost certain to discover one while exploring the country by train with a JR Pass. Stepping onto one isn’t just a test of pain tolerance, however, but more of a small journey into Japanese wellness culture.
What is Reflexology in Japan?
Reflexology is based on the principle that specific areas of the feet, hands, and ears correspond to different internal organs and systems in the body. By applying pressure to these “reflex points,” practitioners believe that vital energy (or “qi”) can be unblocked, relieving stress and even curing illness, while also promoting the body’s natural healing processes. Rooted in traditional Chinese medicine and going back centuries when considering various folk practices, reflexology was introduced to Japan via Taiwan, where it had already gained popularity as a clinical treatment. Specifically, during the 1980s, so-called “health paths” began to appear in parks in Taipei and other Taiwanese cities. Promoted as inexpensive public health features, Japanese tourists came across these paths and, shortly thereafter, they gained popularity back in Japan. The first Japanese reflexology paths were then installed in the late 1980s. Their Japanese name, ashitsubo rodo (literally meaning “foot pressure point road”), highlights the connection to “tsubo,” or pressure points, a term then already quite familiar in massage and acupuncture. 
Then, in the 1990s, the concept of “healthy walking” (“kenko hoko”) gained traction as both the government and local communities emphasized the importance of preventative health measures to deal with Japan’s rapidly aging population. Reflexology paths fit nicely into this framework, as they combine exercise, massage, and leisure. What’s more, it was an activity accessible to people of all ages that reinforced a uniquely Japanese notion: “The places that hurt are the places where something is wrong.” The idea here being that pain indicated some form of imbalance. In response, municipalities across Japan quickly began installing reflexology paths in parks as cheap, relatively low-maintenance public health features. By the mid-1990s, they spread to roadside stations, hot spring resorts, and even temples. Reflexology paths worked perfectly for roadside stations (“michi no eki”), which brought in visitors taking a rest stop from traveling with unique, often low-cost attractions. Meanwhile, hot spring resorts advertised them as a complimentary to a relaxing soak. Japanese media and pop culture also took note, with variety shows following celebrities or comedians trying out reflexology paths, while travel guides highlighted the paths as must-try experiences.
By the early 2000s, however, the novelty had seemingly worn off and new wellness trends captured the public’s attention—yoga, Pilates, Nordic walking, personal training, detoxing, and 24-hour gyms. And, as fewer new paths were built, the once popular concept gradually fell out of style. Many older paths also now suffer maintenance issues and some have even been removed altogether due to complaints from people who found them “too painful.” Today, reflexology paths still survive in various locations across Japan, but there’s far fewer of them and they’re often seen more as a novelty, rather than a mainstream health practice.
That being said, there still are places in Tokyo where you can experience reflexology paths for yourself.
Nakameguro Park
Roughly a 12-minute walk from Naka-Meguro Station, this large park located alongside the Meguro River has tree-lined walking trails, sports facilities, flower gardens, and is a popular spot for picnicking—especially during cherry blossom season. 
Tucked away near the park’s nature learning center is a relatively well-maintained reflexology path. The path includes a variety of stones and “logs” that resemble takefumi—a split piece of bamboo traditionally used to massage the soles of the feet and stimulate pressure points. 
Railings run the entire length of the path, offering support for those who find the experience of directly stepping on stones a bit too much, and there’s even a place where you can store your shoes.
Tsukijigawa Park
Nestled in Tokyo’s upscale Ginza district—near landmarks like the Kabuki-za Theater, Tsukiji Outer Market, and the Imperial Palace— Tsukijigawa Park is just a 1-minute walk from Higashi-Ginza Station. It also has one of the most varied reflexology paths of any location featured on this list, with everything from simple rounded stones and takefumi “logs” to sharp, pyramid-like points that are nearly impossible to walk on. What’s more, the park also has several reflexology plates designed to target specific parts of the body for an even more focused experience. 
There’s actually a chance you may have actually seen Tsukijigawa Park, as it has been highlighted on social media, making it one of Tokyo’s better-known reflexology paths. And, while not as famous as Hachiko in Shibuya, Tsukijigawa Park is also home to a statue in memory of Chirori, Japan’s first certified therapy dog.
Highway Children’s Playground 6
Roughly a 3-minute walk from Nishi-Chofu Station, this park can be found underneath the Chuo Expressway, which means you can visit anytime—even if it’s raining or a burning hot summer day. These kinds of parks are actually more common than you’d think in Japan and they make creative use of space that otherwise would likely sit unused. 
At Highway Children’s Playground 6, there’s playground equipment, sports facilities, public restrooms, benches, and even a water fountain. It, of course, also has a well-maintained reflexology path. This one is more standardized without as much variety as Tsukijigawa Park, but being less exposed to the elements is generally easier to use.
Kyobashi Park
Right behind Kyobashi Plaza Community Center, this relatively small park is about a 4-minute walk from Shintomicho Station. It has a reflexology path similar to Tsukijigawa Park, but on a much smaller scale. What it lacks in size, however, it makes up for in being notably quieter and less crowded.
---
Although reflexology paths no longer enjoy the same popularity they once did in the 1990s, they nonetheless remain a window of sorts in Japanese wellness culture. And, if you ever come across one in Tokyo—or anywhere else in Japan for that matter while exploring with the Japan Rail Pass—it’s definitely more than worth slipping off your shoes and giving it a try.
Bonus Recommendations
For more on visiting Tokyo, as well as the rest of Japan, exploring its health and wellbeing trends, plus its history, check out the further reading below:
- If you’re exploring a huge city like Tokyo during your first time in Japan, it could feel a little daunting. That’s why we’ve put together our Top Ten Tips for First Time Visitors in Japan.
- Tokyo makes a great base for day trips to other destinations in Japan using the Japan Rail Pass thanks to its incredible transport connections. Find out more in our guide to The Best Day Trips from Tokyo.
- For more on IC cards, check out our Top 30 Tips for Using Japan’s Metros for advice and guidance on using the city’s subway network.
- Tokyo is BIG!! As such, it’s a smart idea to invest in PocketWifi to stay connected and avoid any unwanted data charges if you happen to need directions or language advice while you’re on the move.
- Need a helping hand on arrival? Our dedicated Meet and Greet Service is like having a personal assistant for your holiday who happens to be an expert on Japan. We’ll take care of you from the moment you arrive in Japan.
