50 Years of Nuru – What Has Changed in the Last Half-Century for This Seaweed Massage Delight?
This week marks 50 years since the first Nuru massage. To celebrate, let’s take a look at the last 50 years of Nuru – from its origin in Kawasaki, Japan to its rise in the West, and where it stands today as one of the most popular erotic massages in the United States. We love it!
First, let me introduce myself. I’m Calum Scott. Four years ago, I started a discussion on Reddit about Asian erotic massage in the UK. It turned out many people were interested, and as the conversation grew, I became curious to learn more about this culture. So, I started my blog and posted weekly for a year with new facts, historical details, interviews, and opinions.
This year, I’m working on my latest project: a book. It will include stories, historical details, statistics, and much more, and will be available in the fall. But for now, here’s what I’ve learned about the ever-popular Nuru massage.
Where Did Nuru Massage Start and How Has It Evolved?
Nuru massage was created in Kawasaki, Japan by a woman named Miss Hamada, a well-known owner of an erotic massage parlour. In 1968, while at a public bath, Hamada saw elderly Japanese people using an unusual substance to scrub their bodies. The substance, called Nuru gel, is made from a rare seaweed called ‘nori,’ found only in Japan. What caught Hamada’s attention was the unique nature of the gel—it’s both sticky and slippery at the same time. She saw its potential for use in an erotic massage, and after experimenting, she invented Nuru Massage.
After becoming popular at Hamada’s parlour, the massage spread quickly throughout Kawasaki and beyond. In the 80s and 90s, tourists brought word of the massage to their home countries, and it became highly sought after. Wealthy visitors would travel to Japan specifically for the authentic experience, paying a lot for it. Over time, Hamada’s business grew, eventually expanding across Asia and Europe, becoming a family-run enterprise.
Today, 50 years after Hamada’s discovery, you can experience an authentic Nuru massage in major cities like New York. Nuru gel has become one of the most popular erotic massage styles worldwide, and it’s now offered in many massage parlours. Personally, I recommend asking for an Asian masseuse and checking the Nuru gel to make sure it’s authentic, as some places may use substitutes like petroleum jelly or glue.
What Does Miss Hamada’s Granddaughter Think About Nuru Massage?
While Miss Hamada’s location is unknown, I did manage to contact one of her representatives and was invited to meet her granddaughter, Amy, who now runs her parlour in New York.
We met one Tuesday morning at a nice coffee shop. There was a bit of confusion at first—Amy thought I was a documentary filmmaker, but after clearing things up, we had a great conversation about her grandmother and the history of Nuru. Below is a transcript of our chat:
CS: """"So why Nuru? What made your grandmother interested in it?""""
AH: """"She was always looking for the next big thing—something to make skin more youthful. Nuru was just something that came to her, almost like fate. And looking back now, we can see why it’s such a good base for massage. Sometimes I wish she had invented a self-cleaning gel, but oh well!""""
CS: """"Nuru can be pretty messy.""""
AH: """"Tell me about it! You should see the laundry bill at my parlour!""""
CS: """"What made you follow in your grandmother’s footsteps?""""
AH: """"I wouldn’t say I’m as passionate about it as she was, but I got interested over time. After finishing university in Manchester, I moved to New York when my grandmother offered me the business. I’ve been here ever since, and I’m happy with my decision.""""
CS: """"What do you think the future of Nuru looks like?""""
AH: """"That’s a tough one. But I can predict that erotic massage, in general, will become more mainstream. In the past, the UK was more conservative about sex-related topics, but now younger generations are increasingly interested in erotic massage. I think it has a lot to do with city life, self-care, and mental health. People are realizing the benefits of erotic massages, and no one is as shy about it anymore.""""
CS: """"I agree. So, what’s your prediction for the future of erotic massage?""""
AH: """"It will become as normal as going to the dentist or hairdresser. It’ll be a regular part of people’s routines.""""
CS: """"Looks like you’re in the right business!""""
AH: """"Haha, well, there’s more money in other things, but I’m kidding!""""
CS: """"Haha, right!""""
So, what do you think? Amy, the granddaughter of Nuru’s creator, predicts a bright future for the erotic massage industry in the US, and I can’t really argue with her.
As always, leave your comments below and let’s start a discussion!
Erotic Massage near Otay Mesa in San Diego
If you're in the Otay Mesa area of San Diego, looking for a truly relaxing and rejuvenating experience, consider indulging in an erotic massage. This type of massage, whether you're looking for Nuru or other unique forms of sensual massage, offers an opportunity to unwind and enjoy the therapeutic benefits of touch and connection. With trained professionals, you'll experience deep relaxation while receiving expert attention to your needs.
