The Japanese manicure is an ode to craftsmanship and creativity

Thanks to the Internet, the nail industry has become globalised. Pinterest inspiration boards are influenced by local artists and trends, as well as those overseas. 

Case and point? At the start of 2026, we predicted that maximalist manicures would be rising in popularity, and just a few months later searches for Japanese manicures and the country's signature maximalist style are on the up. 

However, it's fair to say that the bold aesthetic is not as wearable as something like the soap nails trend. 

Which is why we asked nail expert and educator Janabeth Obungen to breakdown the techniques of the trend, so we can incorporate the same attention to detail, craftsmanship and creativity into our own manicures.

Keep reading for her top tips and recommendations for trying the Japanese manicure trend...

What is a Japanese manicure?

A Japanese manicure is a nail treatment that focuses on nail health, shine and natural beauty rather than length or heavy enhancement, Obungen tells BEAUTYcrew.

"Traditionally, it involves nourishing the natural nail with mineral-rich pastes, buffing techniques and treatments that strengthen and condition the nails while creating a glossy finish without polish," she explains. "More modern interpretations also lean into Japanese nail artistry, which is where you see the intricate, maximalist and highly detailed nail designs Japan is known for."

What differentiates it from a traditional manicure?

"The biggest difference is the focus on craftsmanship and detail. Traditional manicures often prioritise colour application or trend-based nail looks, whereas Japanese manicures place a huge emphasis on nail care, precision and artistry," she shares. "Even when the designs are maximalist, they’re incredibly intentional — every charm, texture and colour placement feels curated."

Japanese nail art also tends to push creative boundaries through 3D embellishments, mixed textures, hand-painted elements and experimental layering techniques, she went on to say.

Are there any techniques or trends that you think define the Japanese look?

"Definitely texture play and dimensionality," Obungen tells us. "Things like syrup gels, chrome powders, aura gradients, translucent layering, 3D gel sculpting and ultra-fine hand-painted details are all really signature to Japanese nail design."

There’s also a strong fashion influence — nails are often treated as an accessory that compliments the overall aesthetic rather than a separate beauty step, she explains.

"I also think Japanese nail trends are less trend-cycle driven and more rooted in individuality and artistry," she continues.

How can we incorporate Japanese maximalism into our own manicures in a way that is wearable for everyday?

"I think the easiest way is to choose one standout element and keep the rest balanced," says Obungen. "For example, you could do a neutral or sheer base with small 3D accents, chrome details, tiny gems or hand-painted art on just one or two nails."

"Japanese maximalism is all about self-expression and detail, but it doesn’t necessarily have to mean 'over the top'," she explains. "A lot of wearable Japanese-inspired manicures still feel elevated and fashion-forward because of the texture combinations and thoughtful placement rather than sheer volume."

Do you have any favourite Aussie-based Japanese nail artists that you want to shout out?

"There are so many incredible artists locally embracing Japanese-inspired techniques and nail art aesthetics," Obungen gushes. "A few artists that come to mind are Krometura and The Nail Pham who specialise in intricate Japanese-inspired nail work."

"Australia’s nail scene has become really exciting because artists are blending Japanese techniques with their own creative style," she explains.

Main image credit: @houseofbeauty.jo

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