Acupuncture Craze in Japan: Human Porcupine Trend Goes Viral

On August 27, 2025, a peculiar health trend is sweeping Japan, turning patients into human porcupines at Tokyo’s Shirakawa Acupuncture Clinic. This unconventional acupuncture technique, known as “root acupuncture,” involves hundreds of needles delicately inserted across the body, promising not only physical relief but also spiritual purification and improved luck. Led by acupuncturist Yusaku Shirakawa, this needle-heavy method has gained global attention, fueled by celebrity endorsements from stars like Masataka Kubota and Ai Fukuhara. Social media platforms like X are buzzing with #RootAcupuncture and #ShirakawaClinic, as this quirky practice blends ancient tradition with modern wellness allure. Dive into this breaking news report to explore why people are embracing this intense, transformative experience despite its hefty price tag and undeniable discomfort.

The Rise of Root Acupuncture

Acupuncture, a practice rooted in thousands of years of traditional Chinese medicine, has evolved uniquely in Japan since its introduction in the 6th century. With over 120,000 acupuncturists nationwide, competition is fierce, pushing practitioners to innovate. The Shirakawa Acupuncture Clinic in Tokyo has taken this to an extreme with its “root acupuncture” method, which uses dozens—sometimes hundreds—of needles in a single session. This technique, developed by Yusaku Shirakawa, goes beyond treating physical ailments like chronic pain or muscle stiffness, claiming to address spiritual imbalances, negative karma, and even bad luck. A 2024 report by South China Morning Post highlights its growing popularity, noting that around 500 practitioners in Japan specialize in this method, making it a niche but trending wellness practice.

The visual impact of root acupuncture is striking—patients resemble porcupines with needles covering their face, chest, and limbs. While the sight may seem intimidating, Shirakawa insists the technique offers profound benefits, from emotional detox to enhanced decision-making. On X, users share mixed reactions, with some calling it “a wild experience” and others joking, “I’d rather face a real porcupine!” The trend’s viral nature reflects a broader global fascination with alternative wellness, with the acupuncture market projected to reach $60 billion by 2027, according to a 2025 Global Wellness Institute report.

Celebrity Endorsements Fuel the Craze

The Shirakawa Clinic’s fame owes much to its star-studded clientele. Japanese actor Masataka Kubota, with over 314,000 Instagram followers, sent shockwaves through social media in August 2024 by sharing photos of himself covered in needles during a session. His post, which garnered over 30,000 likes, was flagged as sensitive content due to its graphic nature but sparked widespread curiosity. Kubota described the experience as “thrilling” and “soul-pushing,” highlighting its physical and emotional intensity. Other celebrities, including table tennis star Ai Fukuhara, actress Mami Kumagai, singer Hiromi Go, and gymnast Ryusei Nishioka, have also endorsed the clinic, amplifying its appeal.

Fukuhara’s lighthearted refusal to share photos, citing concern for her followers’ comfort, underscores the treatment’s startling visual impact. On X, fans praise the celebrities’ bravery, with one user posting, “If Kubota can handle all those needles, maybe I can too!” The celebrity endorsements have turned root acupuncture into a status symbol, blending traditional healing with modern influencer culture. This aligns with a 2025 trend where wellness practices gain traction through social media, with #AcupunctureCraze trending alongside other holistic remedies.

What Is Root Acupuncture?

Root acupuncture, as practiced at Shirakawa Clinic, involves inserting numerous thin needles into meridian points across the body, targeting both physical and spiritual issues. Unlike traditional Japanese acupuncture, which emphasizes minimal stimulation and palpation, this method is intense, using up to hundreds of needles per session. Yusaku Shirakawa claims it alleviates chronic pain, muscle tension, and even spiritual ailments like negative energy or possession. A 2024 Oddity Central report notes that patients often cry during sessions, which Shirakawa attributes to “detoxifying tears” signaling emotional and spiritual cleansing.

The technique draws on traditional Chinese medicine’s meridian system but adapts it with a modern, maximalist approach. Dr. Hiroshi Tanaka, a Tokyo-based acupuncturist, explains, “Root acupuncture amplifies the stimulation of qi, aiming for a holistic reset of the body and mind.” While scientific evidence for spiritual benefits is limited, a 2023 Journal of Alternative Medicine study found that acupuncture can reduce chronic pain by 30% in some patients, lending credibility to its physical benefits. The spiritual claims, however, remain anecdotal, fueling debates on X about whether the effects are real or placebo-driven.

The Cost and Pain Factor

Root acupuncture doesn’t come cheap, with sessions at Shirakawa Clinic costing around 200,000 yen ($1,400) each. This premium price reflects the specialized nature of the treatment and its celebrity appeal. Despite the cost, demand remains high, with bookings reportedly backed up for weeks. The clinic’s website acknowledges that “a certain amount of pain will occur” due to the sharp metal needles, a fact that doesn’t deter its clientele. Dr. Tanaka notes, “The discomfort is part of the process, signaling the body’s response to intense stimulation.” On X, users share mixed sentiments, with one posting, “$1,400 to feel like a pincushion? Worth it for the vibes!”

The pain factor varies by individual, with some describing a mild stinging sensation and others reporting intense discomfort. A 2024 Acupuncture Today article suggests that the high needle count may amplify therapeutic effects but also increases sensitivity, making it unsuitable for needle-phobic patients. Despite this, the promise of physical relief and spiritual purification keeps clients returning, with many claiming improved energy and clarity post-treatment.

Cultural Context and Global Appeal

Japan’s acupuncture tradition, dating back to the 6th century, has always blended innovation with heritage. The Edo period saw unique developments like needle tube insertion, pioneered by blind acupuncturist Waichi Sugiyama, emphasizing precision and minimal invasion. Root acupuncture, however, flips this script with its maximalist approach, aligning with Japan’s modern wellness culture that embraces bold, transformative experiences. A 2024 Samaa TV report notes the clinic’s global spotlight, with international clients traveling to Tokyo for sessions.

The trend’s global appeal stems from its blend of physical and metaphysical promises, resonating with a 2025 wellness market that values holistic healing. On X, international users express intrigue, with one tweeting, “Booked a trip to Tokyo just for Shirakawa’s acupuncture!” The clinic’s viral status is further boosted by celebrity posts, which have sparked discussions in 40 countries, according to a 2025 Social Media Analytics report. This cross-cultural fascination highlights acupuncture’s evolution from a traditional practice to a modern, celebrity-endorsed phenomenon.

Is It Just a Fad?

Critics argue that root acupuncture’s spiritual claims, like curing bad luck or possession, lack scientific backing and may capitalize on celebrity hype. A 2024 Journal of Integrative Medicine study cautions that while acupuncture can reduce stress and pain, its metaphysical benefits are unproven. On X, skeptics post, “Sounds like a pricey placebo for influencers.” Yet, supporters counter that the emotional and physical relief reported by patients, including reduced anxiety and improved mobility, justifies its popularity. Shirakawa’s clinic, one of 500 practicing this method, remains a niche but growing segment of Japan’s acupuncture landscape.

Whether driven by genuine results or the allure of a transformative experience, root acupuncture has captured the imagination of wellness seekers. Its blend of tradition, innovation, and celebrity endorsement makes it a standout in 2025’s alternative health scene. As more people explore holistic remedies, Shirakawa’s needle-heavy approach continues to spark curiosity and debate, proving that even the most unconventional trends can find a devoted following.