The Shirakawa Acupuncture Clinic in Tokyo has captured worldwide attention with its distinctive acupuncture approach, involving an unusually large number of needles. This innovative method has not only attracted global celebrities and athletes but has also sparked interest for its claims of addressing both physical and spiritual issues.
Founded by Yusaku Shirakawa, the clinic is renowned for its “root acupuncture” technique. This method utilizes dozens, sometimes hundreds, of needles, including on the face, to treat ailments ranging from chronic pain and muscle tension to spiritual imbalances. Shirakawa asserts that his treatment not only alleviates physical discomfort but also purifies the soul, enhances luck, and assists in decision-making.
Despite a steep price tag of around 200,000 yen (approximately $1,400) per session, the clinic has become a hotspot for Japan’s elite. Notable clients include actor Masataka Kubota, table tennis star Ai Fukuhara, and gymnast Ryusei Nishioka. Kubota recently showcased his experience on Instagram with photos of himself adorned with needles, which were flagged as sensitive but praised by the actor as “exhilarating” and deeply transformative.
Fukuhara also shared her experience, though she opted against posting photos to avoid unsettling her followers. The clinic’s practice has been known to provoke strong emotional responses, often leading patients to tears. Shirakawa interprets these reactions as a form of spiritual detoxification, believing them to be a sign of deep purification.
The clinic’s rising fame highlights a growing global interest in alternative healing practices that address both physical and emotional well-being.