Exploring Life & Business with Yuta Matsumoto of PINOK STUDIO

Today we’d like to introduce you to Yuta Matsumoto.

Hi Yuta, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I grew up in Mie, Japan, and after graduating high school, I moved to Tokyo to pursue my dream of becoming a hairstylist. I trained and worked in Tokyo for several years, where I developed a strong foundation in technique, discipline, and Japanese-style hospitality. The experience taught me the importance of detail, consistency, and client care.

In 2012, I moved to the U.S. — a big decision that came with many challenges, especially the language barrier and adjusting to a new culture. I started over, working my way up in local salons and eventually becoming a salon manager. During that time, I saw a gap in the industry: many assistants and junior stylists didn’t have the hands-on training or support system needed to grow, and many gave up on their careers too early.

That inspired me to open my own salon — a place where education, teamwork, and growth are a priority. In 2017, I opened PINOK STUDIO in Pasadena. The journey hasn’t been easy, especially navigating through COVID-19, but those challenges made us stronger. Today, I’m proud of the team we’ve built and the community we serve.

My goal is to continue supporting the next generation of stylists while offering clients a high-quality, welcoming salon experience rooted in Japanese values and techniques.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. When I decided to open my own salon, I faced many challenges — the biggest being the language barrier. I also had very little knowledge or experience in running a business, so handling paperwork, permits, budgeting, and hiring was overwhelming at first. I was deeply grateful to have friends who supported me through every step — from finding the right location to helping with logistics and getting the salon up and running.

One of the hardest parts was team building. As a new business owner, I struggled with patience. I held very high standards and expected the same from others, which unfortunately led to some team members leaving. Over time, I learned how important it is to support and understand each individual, and to grow together as a team rather than expecting perfection from the start.

Then COVID-19 hit, and it felt like everything I had worked for was suddenly at risk. Between 2020 and 2021, we were forced to close for a total of seven months. It was an incredibly difficult time, emotionally and financially. But even during that challenging period, we were deeply supported by so many of our clients. It reminded me that the hair care we provide has the power to bring happiness — no matter what is happening in the world. That experience changed the way I see the value of my work and my business. We made it through and came out stronger and more united as a team.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about PINOK STUDIO?
PINOK STUDIO is a Japanese-style hair salon located in Pasadena, California. We specialize in personalized hair care, especially for clients with coarse or thick hair types. Our team focuses not just on delivering great results, but on creating a calming and thoughtful salon experience rooted in Japanese hospitality and attention to detail.

We’re also known for our signature Head Spa treatments — a luxurious scalp and hair therapy using premium organic products. It’s more than just a service — it’s a rejuvenating experience that promotes both hair health and mental relaxation.

What sets us apart is our dedication to education and teamwork. Many salons operate as individual stations, but we’ve built a supportive, collaborative environment where stylists grow together. Our junior stylists and assistants receive structured, hands-on training so they can gain confidence and build long-term careers.

Brand-wise, I’m most proud of the culture we’ve created — one that values kindness, professionalism, growth, and service. PINOK STUDIO is not just a salon, it’s a community. We care deeply about each other and our clients, and we want every guest to leave not only looking great but feeling refreshed, cared for, and confident.

What do you like and dislike about the city?
What I love most about Los Angeles is the amazing weather, the cultural diversity, and the incredible food scene. As a surfer, I appreciate having great surf spots nearby — and as a huge Dodgers fan, being close to the best baseball team in the world is a big bonus!

If I had to choose something I like least, it would probably be the traffic. Getting around can be stressful and time-consuming, but at the end of the day, the city’s energy and opportunities make it all worth it.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.pinokstudio.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pinokstudio?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==
• Yelp: https://yelp.to/CiJ5lvAYuG