"While respecting each client's individuality, I focus on offering new designs that suit them, rather than repeating the same styles."


Mr. Morikawa dreamed of becoming a hairdresser from 15, he turned that dream into reality in Kyoto, and in April 2022, he opened his own salon, YAYKA, in Karasuma, Kyoto. We spoke with him about what drives his passion, his dedication, and his carefully chosen tools.

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At 15, you decided to become a hairdresser?

"I have a curious personality, so I wanted a job I could stay passionate about for life. That’s when I became drawn to hairdressing. Every day brings different clients, styles, and challenges. As a hairdresser, no two days are the same. But I truly became serious about the profession when I was 25, just starting as a junior stylist."


Was there a turning point for you?

"I was selected as a finalist in a contest, but my skills weren’t up to par. I couldn’t bring any of my ideas to life. The frustration pushed me to set a goal to improve and return to that same stage, better than before."


■It seems that moment changed your mindset?

"Yes, from then on, I spent all my time thinking about hairdressing and how to level up. I saw it as an investment in myself and didn’t hold back on spending time, effort, or money to improve."

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■You’ve won many awards in various competitions as a result.

"When I try to create something new, it’s often challenging and tough. But when I finish and feel that sense of accomplishment, it’s incredibly rewarding. Competitions feature a lot of bold and innovative designs, which really inspire and push me to improve. Thanks to that, my salon work never becomes routine, and I’m able to keep elevating both my skills and creativity."

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You use many Naruto scissors, but do you have a favorite pair?

"Oh, do I have to pick just one? It would be difficult to work with just one pair, so I’d say all of them! I can’t choose! (laughs)"
"The craftsmen accepted a lot of customization requests, and I can really feel the craftsmanship in each pair. That craftsmanship impacts my own approach to work and keeps me motivated."


Thank you. Do you remember what it felt like the first time you used them?

"Yes, they felt light, and the precision was impressive. It made me want to cut more carefully. I found myself taking delicate, precise slices and cutting each section with care."


Please tell us about each pair of scissors.
(From right to left in the image below)


○Forte Graver DB 5.15 inches
I use these for more detailed work, thinning, and creating texture bundles. The finger holes fit well, making them easy to use.

○Megane STⅢ 5.9 inches (customized)
These are for blunt cuts and chop cuts. From my perspective, instead of letting the hair escape to create a panel’s curve, I prefer using chop cuts to precisely control the cutting line and shape the curve myself. That’s why I had the blades customized to prevent the hair from slipping.

○ NS Arms Sword 6.3 inches (customized)
I bought these when I opened my salon, adding the logo to mark the occasion. I use them for blunt cuts and fades, especially when I need speed and power.

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○ 2suki Aeroline S29 (cut %: about20-25%)
I bought these because the lower cut % makes it easier to create a soft, blended texture. They allow for fine, even thinning, perfect for delicately finishing outlines. I had given a low cut % pair to a junior stylist and switched to high cut % scissors, but realized I still needed low cut % thinning scissors as well.

○Dressline (cut % : about 20%)
These are a new type of thinning scissors, and I wanted to try them out. They can remove hair while maintaining a blunt look, making them ideal for styles like blunt bobs where you want to keep the weight at the ends. Compared to the 2suki Aeroline S29, they feel softer when in use.

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Is your constant drive for improvement motivated by your love for being a hairdresser?

"If my feelings of love fade away, I wouldn’t improve. To stay passionate about hairdressing, I make it a point to explore new things in beauty, like creative projects and photo shoots. That keeps me excited and motivated every day."

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What has been the most rewarding experience in your career as a hairdresser?

"When I went independent, many of my previous clients followed me. I was nervous, but it reassured me that I had been doing things right, and I was genuinely happy."


What’s the most important thing for you in your career as a hairdresser?

"Training others. I was mentored myself, so I feel a responsibility to nurture good hairdressers. I take the time to offer guidance and listen to each individual. I’m dedicated to raising top-level hairdressers from scratch.

There are fewer salons offering proper training these days, but if we don’t provide education, the quality of hairdressers will decline. I want to see them become outstanding professionals—whether they continue working here or start their own businesses. I hope they can create their own path."

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