History of Kobido: The 15th-Century Beauty Ritual of Japanese Empresses

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Published on: 2025-04-16

In a world obsessed with modern skincare trends, there’s something especially enchanting about a beauty ritual with centuries-old roots. Kobido, often referred to as the “ancient way of beauty,” is one of the oldest and most revered facial massage techniques in the world — and it all began in 15th-century Japan, with a royal desire for timeless, natural radiance.

At Venelle Salon & Spa in Park Slope, Brooklyn, we’re proud to carry on this exquisite tradition, offering Kobido as a luxurious, non-invasive alternative to today’s fast beauty fixes.


🌸 The Birth of Kobido: A Royal Beauty Secret

The history of Kobido dates back to 1472, during Japan’s Muromachi period. According to legend, two master practitioners of Anma (traditional Japanese massage) were summoned to the royal palace to perform a special facial treatment for the Empress of Japan. She desired a method of maintaining her youthful appearance and preserving the beauty of her skin — without the use of harsh ingredients or invasive techniques.

These two masters competed to present the most effective technique, but rather than working against one another, they ultimately decided to combine their knowledge. The result was the creation of Kobido, a highly refined, ritualistic facial massage method that became known as the official beauty treatment of the imperial court.

Only the elite had access to Kobido, and its techniques were passed down from master to student through a select lineage, preserving its integrity and precision for generations.


🕊️ More Than Beauty: A Holistic Healing Tradition

While Kobido is now celebrated for its ability to lift, tone, and rejuvenate the skin, its original purpose extended far beyond appearance. Deeply rooted in Eastern philosophy and traditional medicine, Kobido was created to balance the body's internal energy (Qi), improve circulation, and promote overall well-being.

The treatment works on multiple levels:

  • Physical, by stimulating the skin, muscles, and lymphatic system

  • Energetic, by activating pressure points along the face’s meridian lines

  • Emotional, by releasing tension stored in the facial muscles

  • Spiritual, by encouraging mindfulness and inner peace

In ancient times, Kobido was considered a form of self-care, healing, and meditative practice, often reserved for royalty and practiced with the utmost reverence.


✨ The Kobido Legacy: Passed Down Through the Centuries

Unlike many beauty treatments that evolve or become diluted over time, Kobido remains a protected tradition, preserved by a small number of certified practitioners. Today, the Kobido lineage is maintained by the 26th generation master, Dr. Shogo Mochizuki, who has made it his life’s work to share the art of Kobido with the world — without compromising its authenticity.

Modern Kobido practitioners are trained not only in technique but in the discipline, philosophy, and spirit behind the massage. Each movement is intentional, flowing like a dance across the face to lift, sculpt, and awaken the skin and senses.


🌿 Kobido Today: A Timeless Beauty Practice at Venelle

At Venelle Salon & Spa, we honor the history of Kobido by offering this rare, results-driven treatment in a peaceful, elegant setting. Whether you’re looking to:

  • Naturally lift and tone your skin

  • Reduce signs of aging

  • Detoxify and de-stress

  • Or simply experience a sacred beauty ritual...

Kobido offers an unparalleled journey into both ancient wisdom and modern skincare excellence.


🏮 From the Empress to You

What was once reserved only for Japanese royalty is now available to you — right here in Park Slope. Our trained estheticians perform authentic Kobido facial massage with the same reverence and precision passed down for over 500 years.

Call 718.989.9800 or visit www.venellesalon.com to experience this ancient beauty ritual for yourself. Let your skin glow with the wisdom of the past — and the radiance of now.


Venelle Salon & Spa – Where Tradition Meets Timeless Beauty.