About Us
A Touch of ZEN helps clients find peace and serenity in their own body and mind through a combination of Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, therapeutic massage, and reflexology designed to meet individual needs.
I’m Akira, owner and principal massage therapist at A Touch of ZEN. I have lived in America for 20 years, but I was born and raised in Japan. I grew up experiencing the power of the traditional Chinese herb and healing practices that are common throughout Asia. We believe that healing occurs more rapidly when both the body and mind are soothed, and that many illnesses are caused or worsened by untreated stress. My therapeutic massage methodology is designed to relieve stress, reduce pain, increase flexibility, and enhance overall wellness. Sessions are customized to include a...
A Touch of ZEN
5856 Faringdon Place
Raleigh , NC 27609 map it
(781) 635-0758
License: #NC License 16771
Hours of Operation
M
By Appointment Only
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By Appointment Only
W
By Appointment Only
Th
By Appointment Only
F
By Appointment Only
Sa
By Appointment Only
S
By Appointment Only
Akira F.
License: NC #16771
70 Verified Reviews
Bodywork Services
New Client Special
60 min - Massage
90 min - Massage
120 min - Massage
Spa Services
Japanese Anti-Aging Facial Massage
by
Bernetta
on
Jan 17
I found a Touch of ZEN on the internet and I'm so glad I booked. Akira did a wonderful job and focused on my problem areas as requested. I will definitely go back for a massage and recommend him to others.
by
Mary
on
Jan 15
Amazing massage and relaxing atmosphere! Left feeling less pain and tightness. Definitely going back!
by
Lea
on
Jan 13
The environment is very relaxing. When I left the office, I felt circulation was better and there was no tension in my shoulders and neck!
by
Deborah
on
Jan 12
One of the best massages I've had. Very relaxing and helped my tensed muscles.
by
Anonymous
on
Jan 09
One of the best body massages I have had. And I had plenty since I am in the wellness industry. Highly recommend Mr. Akira to any one looking for a massage that is fluid relaxing and therapeutic. Can’t wait to go back.
by
Anonymous
on
Dec 26
Excellent massage! I will definately be going back.
by
Stephanie
on
Dec 23
I'm literally stunned that we have such a massage therapist here in our area. I've had massages all over the world and never have I had one as good as the one yesterday with Akira. He is absolutely brilliant the way he combines the massage with hitting the necessary pressure points in your body. I could barely turn my neck to the left when I walked in--and my back had been throbbing for days. The difference when I left his office was literally miraculous. I'm thrilled to be able to do this review for him. This is truly Akira's calling.....he's amazing!!
by
Keiko
on
Dec 19
One of the best massages I’ve had! Akira san listened to my concerns carefully before the massage and treated the areas of concerns very thoroughly.
by
Keiko
on
Dec 19
He listened to my concerns and addressed them perfectly.
by
Lila
on
Dec 18
What a great experience! Akira is such a talented professional. Truly, an amazing experience both as a full body massage and as treatment for a hip injury. I'll be back!!
MassageBookAverage Rating:
4.9 (Based on 70 Reviews)
98 %
Ambiance
98 %
Professionalism
by Bernetta on Jan 2019
Verified
Service Received: New Client Special with Akira F.
I found a Touch of ZEN on the internet and I'm so glad I booked. Akira did a wonderful job and focused on my problem areas as requested. I will definitely go back for a massage and recommend him to others.
by Mary on Jan 2019
Verified
Service Received: New Client Special with Akira F.
Amazing massage and relaxing atmosphere! Left feeling less pain and tightness. Definitely going back!
by Lea on Jan 2019
Verified
Service Received: New Client Special with Akira F.
The environment is very relaxing. When I left the office, I felt circulation was better and there was no tension in my shoulders and neck!
by Deborah on Jan 2019
Verified
Service Received: New Client Special with Akira F.
One of the best massages I've had. Very relaxing and helped my tensed muscles.
by Anonymous on Jan 2019
Verified
Service Received: New Client Special with Akira F.
One of the best body massages I have had. And I had plenty since I am in the wellness industry. Highly recommend Mr. Akira to any one looking for a massage that is fluid relaxing and therapeutic. Can’t wait to go back.
by Anonymous on Dec 2018
Verified
Service Received: New Client Special with Akira F.
Excellent massage! I will definately be going back.
by Stephanie on Dec 2018
Verified
Service Received: New Client Special with Akira F.
I'm literally stunned that we have such a massage therapist here in our area. I've had massages all over the world and never have I had one as good as the one yesterday with Akira. He is absolutely brilliant the way he combines the massage with hitting the necessary pressure points in your body. I could barely turn my neck to the left when I walked in--and my back had been throbbing for days. The difference when I left his office was literally miraculous. I'm thrilled to be able to do this review for him. This is truly Akira's calling.....he's amazing!!
by Keiko on Dec 2018
Verified
Service Received: New Client Special with Akira F.
One of the best massages I’ve had! Akira san listened to my concerns carefully before the massage and treated the areas of concerns very thoroughly.
by Keiko on Dec 2018
Verified
Service Received: New Client Special with Akira F.
He listened to my concerns and addressed them perfectly.
by Lila on Dec 2018
Verified
Service Received: 90 min - Massage with Akira F.
What a great experience! Akira is such a talented professional. Truly, an amazing experience both as a full body massage and as treatment for a hip injury. I'll be back!!
by Brian on Dec 2018
Verified
Service Received: New Client Special with Akira F.
I booked an appointment with Akira because of the excellent reviews that I read. I am dealing with Frozen Shoulder for the second time-different shoulder. The first time, I went to medical doctors, had chiropractic care and physical therapy. None of these professionals knew more of what exactly to do than Akira. He zeroed in on the problem immediately and with deftness and skill, started the process of loosening up shoulder and relieving my pain. I can not recommend Akira highly enough and I have already booked my next appointment. Let his strong hands do their magic! You will not be dissapointed.
by Anonymous on Dec 2018
Verified
Service Received: New Client Special with Akira F.
Liked the skill and the therapeutics. Also excellent firm touch and movements and techniques. Would of liked more kneading feel good massage and regular massage on back and feet.. overall top notch and capable of whatever you wish.
by Denise on Nov 2018
Verified
Service Received: New Client Special with Akira F.
Akira gave me the best massage I have ever had. He has a unique technique which enables him to get to the deep tissue without pain or discomfort. I felt amazing when I left! He is also very professional and respectful. Can’t wait to go back!!
by Aaron on Nov 2018
Verified
Service Received: New Client Special with Akira F.
I am new to Raleigh and so happy to have found Akira’s practice. He responded to my first message same day and the appointment setup process was a breeze. Akira is a gifted masseuse and was remarkably intuitive to tap into areas of the body that needed to be freed up. He was a pleasure to talk with and I am already looking forward to my next session. Thanks, Akira!
by Anonymous on Nov 2018
Verified
Service Received: New Client Special with Akira F.
My shoulder does not have pain any longer.
by Galen on Nov 2018
Verified
Service Received: New Client Special with Akira F.
Akira was excellent. Will definitely be using him again!
by Anonymous on Nov 2018
Verified
Service Received: New Client Special with Akira F.
I liked that Akira intently listened when I explained the reason why I was there. Issues with overuse of knees & shoulder pain. He asked me questions about the pain & then focused the session those areas. The massage was great, he's very skilled. The atmosphere was relaxing.
by Leah on Oct 2018
Verified
Service Received: 90 min - Massage with Akira F.
I really appreciate your bodywork. It is deep and effective but done with obvious care ! That is so important to me!!! Thank you!
by Michael on Oct 2018
Verified
Service Received: New Client Special with Akira F.
Great massage with attention to the areas that needed work. He addressed the issues that Ihave as a result of my profession and previous injuries. Very relaxing. I hope to book again soon.
by Caide on Oct 2018
Verified
Service Received: New Client Special with Akira F.
Very friendly and very skilled - I look forward to my next visit!
by Anonymous on Oct 2018
Verified
Service Received: New Client Special with Akira F.
Very thorough.
by Fiona on Sep 2018
Verified
Service Received: New Client Special with Akira F.
The moment I walked in, I felt relaxed. Akira did a great job and he is very professional. Highly recommend. Will return in the future.
by William on Sep 2018
Verified
Service Received: New Client Special with Akira F.
Akira has a beautiful spa. Just being there relaxes you. I've been looking for a massage therapist since moving here last April. He's it! Great massage techniques. Very personable. I'll be back.
by Sherry on Sep 2018
Verified
Service Received: New Client Special with Akira F.
Akira is amazing and I'm a fairly seasoned massage client in Raleigh. I told him I was in the market for a regular therapist before we began our session and I've found one now! He's got a regular client after one visit!
by Karen on Sep 2018
Verified
Service Received: New Client Special with Akira F.
Akira is great. He really took what I said and made sure to address all the problem areas. He knows what he's doing and even went over 90 minutes!
by Kairit on Aug 2018
Verified
Service Received: New Client Special with Akira F.
I was looking for something different than usual spa massages and I have to say, it was what I was looking for. Already booked appointment for my husband. We both are on our feets the whole day , back and neck area needed a good attention so I hope my husband who is really picky, will not be disappointed! I will definitely go back again!
by Maki on Aug 2018
Verified
Service Received: 60 min - Massage with Akira F.
Akira-san was very professional and kind. I could tell he is a good person. I wanted to have the shiatsu part of his message a little more. But I must admit I did feel very relaxed.
by Anonymous on Aug 2018
Verified
Service Received: New Client Special with Akira F.
Wonderfully massage at good price. Skilled therapist who is good at deep tissue and relaxation.
by Andrew on Aug 2018
Verified
Service Received: New Client Special with Akira F.
Akira was great - very methodical in helping identify how to address shoulder and neck pain. I feel much better and I will definitely be back!
by Lawrence on Aug 2018
Verified
Service Received: 90 min - Massage with Akira F.
Less cumbersome draping.
by Mohamed on Aug 2018
Verified
Service Received: New Client Special with Akira F.
Akira was specific and deliberate with his techniques, applying the right amount of pressure in the right places to amazingly find/release hidden pockets of tightness. I particularly appreciated the short pre-session where Akira evaluated my overall body in developing a customized experience. If you suffer any pain or discomfort, I highly recommend his services!
by Chris on Aug 2018
Verified
Service Received: Bodywork with Akira F.
At the end of the session today my day was just began for me was relaxing and helpfully.
by Anonymous on Aug 2018
Verified
Service Received: 120 min - Massage with Akira F.
Complete relaxation. This is how I describe my massage session with Akira. I stand a lot with my work, so my back, glutes and legs are often very tensed. Akira was able to realize the areas that were tense and through deep tissue massage, work to relax the muscles. By the end of the 120 mins session, I felt the most relaxed I have in a long time.
From my experience, I can see that Akira is very respectful and cares about his clients. He first reviews the intake form to see what expectations the client has and to determine if there are any medical conditions that might affect the therapy. Throughout the session, Akira checks to make sure the pressure is okay. The mood of the room is calm with soft tranquil music. The massage table is very comfortable and warm and the draping is professional.
Overall the experience was wonderful. Akira was professional, very thorough as a therapist, focused on his work (and not checking his cell phone/texting like many therapists do), reasonably priced and his office was clean.
It is great to have Akira in the community.
by Rebecca on Aug 2018
Verified
Service Received: New Client Special with Akira F.
Akira at A Touch of Zen gave me a fantastic massage. Everything from his office space to the room temperature, to the pressure of the massage and Akira’s professionalism was perfect. I haven’t felt this relaxed in over eight months!! I highly recommend Akira at A Touch of Zen if you want a completely relaxing experience.
by Anonymous on Jul 2018
Verified
Service Received: 60 min - Massage with Akira F.
I was having pain in my shoulder following a long bike ride the day before. It hurt to raise my left arm, and it got increasingly worse as they day progressed. Finally I decided to try a massage. Akira suggested including cupping in the service. It didn’t cost extra, and was just part of the massage time. It feels a little weird, but I immediately felt some relief in my shoulder, and 2 days later the pain is completely gone! I never would have believed it could be fixed so quickly. Highly recommend massage with cupping for pain relief from Akira. He definitely knows his stuff!
by Meecha on Jul 2018
Verified
Service Received: New Client Special with Akira F.
Akira is highly skilled and has amazing hands! It was recommended that I try a deep tissue massage to help with chronic back pain. Akira talked with me about my situation and seemed genuine in his concern. I liked that he didn't talk much during the 90 min. session except to ask if I was okay. This is my first time having a male therapist, but he is very careful and respectful of his female clients. I will refer him to others and continue to see him as my therapist.
His office is beautiful, and the décor is welcoming as well. I left there with a complete and delightful experience. Thanks Akira.
by Anonymous on Jul 2018
Verified
Service Received: 60 min - Massage with Akira F.
I was so relaxed and my body was finally pain-free! Akira is amazing, he gives THE BEST massage I have ever had! Excellent techniques!!!
by Yoko on Jul 2018
Verified
Service Received: 90 min - Massage with Akira F.
Akira knows not only where your pains are, but also know where the pains come from. He was caring, attentive, and professional all the way. Overall, it was such a relaxing, peaceful, and healing experience!
by Anonymous on Jun 2018
Verified
Service Received: New Client Special with Akira F.
I loved it! Akira gave me a fantastic massage. I highly recomend this place if you are looking for a massage.
by Stacy on Jun 2018
Verified
Service Received: New Client Special with Akira F.
I had a great experience at A Touch Of Zen! Akira is so friendly and professional that you are immediately put at ease. He really listened to my complaints and customized my massage to my needs. I highly recommend giving him a try!
by Anonymous on May 2018
Verified
Service Received: 120 min - Massage with Akira F.
Excellent massage by Akira. You have to try it to realize his expertise. A great moment of relaxation guaranteed !
by Takae on May 2018
Verified
Service Received: New Client Special with Akira F.
He really did great job!
He was very concerned my problem, and very carefully treated. He knows the point of body. I really appreciate.
by Anonymous on May 2018
Verified
Service Received: New Client Special with Akira F.
?????
I feel so comfortable next day after the Shiatsu Massage onwards.... Awesome !!!
I will come back again soon.
by Anonymous on May 2018
Verified
Service Received: 90 min - Massage with Akira F.
I had a massage from Akira-san today, and my experience was great!!! He is very knowledgeable, informative, and friendly. I had pains in my neck, shoulder, and some pretty tight knots. He took time to figure these out. I am now feeling great and very relaxed. I will be a regular customer from now on. If someone is looking for incredible quality of massage, go to Zen massage!
by Chieko on Apr 2018
Verified
Service Received: New Client Special with Akira F.
I had a frozen shoulder in the past and although it is better now, I still had stiffness on my shoulder.
After going to Akira’s massage, my shoulders are able to move in a wider range and it got me easier to wear my clothes.
Also, he let me realize that I have a stiff calves. It was a great information to mentenance my body. I can’t thank Akuta enough for his professional massage!!
by Anonymous on Apr 2018
Verified
Service Received: 90 min - Massage with Akira F.
Akira has a very gentle touch even when doing deep tissue work. He is very patient and gives your muscles time to let go. Both therapeutic and relaxing. I felt so much better after and can’t wait for my next massage!
by Anonymous on Apr 2018
Verified
Service Received: New Client Special with Akira F.
I really liked his massage therapy. I have cronic back pain, so I needed someone who has very knowledgeable technique helps me out my problem. I finally found he was the one!! I absolutely recommend him to everyone!!
by Philip on Mar 2018
Verified
Service Received: New Client Special with Akira F.
One of the best massages I’ve ever had. Strong, skilled, knowledgeable...words to describe Akira and his massage services. Top notch in every way!!!
by Shiori on Mar 2018
Verified
Service Received: New Client Special with Akira F.
My body feels much better and I definitely will come back again.
by Anonymous on Feb 2018
Verified
Service Received: New Client Special with Akira F.
I really appreciate the time I had.
I am looking forward to coming back again soon.
by Cindy on Feb 2018
Verified
Service Received: New Client Special with Akira F.
Really good massage including trigger points. The atmosphere is extremely peaceful. Aikro was very professional and respectful. This was my first first visit and I felt comfortable from the beginning. I booked my next appointment on the spot! ????
by Nozomi on Jan 2018
Verified
Service Received: 90 min - Massage with Akira F.
He is the best and highly recommended. Today was my third appointment. I left feeling refreshed and renewed. My shoulders became lighter and my headache was gone. I look forward to my next appointment.
by Anonymous on Jan 2018
Verified
Service Received: New Client Special with Akira F.
It was very nice experience for me. I feel very comfortable throughout of the maggage. And I feel much better afterward. So, I would like to come back soon.
by Anonymous on Jan 2018
Verified
Service Received: New Client Special with Akira F.
I liked that my body actually feel lighter and more movable on the next day of this deep soft tissue massage.
by Anonymous on Dec 2017
Verified
Service Received: 60 min - Massage with Akira F.
Amazing service every time. Cannot live without!
by Kanako on Dec 2017
Verified
Service Received: 90 min - Massage with Akira F.
This was my 3rd time getting massage from A Touch of ZEN. Akira is wonderful in asking what the current problem with my body is and is on-spot with what he does. I feel fuzzy and relaxed like I have never been with other massages. He has fixed my shoulder and neck pain in the 2 times that I have received massage, and my neck and shoulders can move more than it used to.
I am definitely coming back for Akira's massage.
by Anonymous on Dec 2017
Verified
Service Received: New Client Special with Akira F.
It was a complete surprise when my chronic backache pain was reduced significantly. It was a relief that I have not felt for over 15 years. Although my backache has been manageable, I broke my back on day trying to stretch. That's when I tried to make my first appointment, but he advised me to wait until the acute pain is better. About 4 days later, I went in for my first appointment, and the massage was so nice and relaxing. To my surprise, I had a relapse of the acute pain right after the session, but he said that the body trying to reset to the healthy state, and the next afternoon, the amazing relief was experienced. The human body works wonders, and Akira knows how to help itself heal. I am going back for more.
by Yuichiro on Dec 2017
Verified
Service Received: New Client Special with Akira F.
Awesome! I fell asleep in 10 minutes after started because I was so comfortable with the service. I definitely will be back there, soon. Why don't you call and make an appointment!!
by S. on Dec 2017
Verified
Service Received: New Client Special with Akira F.
Fantastic Massage. Akira is a personable, cheerful guy with a great talent for massage. He listened to my needs, and checked in a few times to make sure they were being met. The massage concluded with special attention to the neck and face, using techniques that sent me into complete relaxation. He also gave me a free t-shirt, what's not to love? Can't wait to go to Akira again.
by Yoko on Nov 2017
Verified
Service Received: New Client Special with Akira F.
It was very comfortable place.
by Anonymous on Nov 2017
Verified
Service Received: 60 min - Massage with Akira F.
I've had a few massages done both locally and in Japan and China at a wide range of price points and the 60 min massage I received by Akira was by far the best I've ever had. He is extremely thorough in his assessment of your condition and in explaining his procedure. I often get told you cannot fully judge the skills of a masseuse at your first appointment since they are just getting to know your trouble spots but I don't think you should have to pay for a mediocre massage even on your first visit! Mediocre is honestly the best I could've ever said for all of the massages I've had in the past, which is one of the main reasons I had shied away from getting regular massages even though I was in pain for years. One massage is not a cure-all and that was not my expectation going in but I could literally feel the tightness and muscle tension melt away as Akira worked on my back, neck, and shoulders. He demonstrated a high level of skill, knowledge, and professionalism. You also get a full 60 min of massage unlike some of the other places that count consultation and changing time as part of the massage time. I was so pleased with my experience that I went ahead and scheduled my next appointment!
by Peter on Oct 2017
Verified
Service Received: 90 min - Massage with Akira F.
Akira demonstrated a high level of mastery of the art of massage therapy
by Eiko on Oct 2017
Verified
Service Received: 60 min - Massage with Akira F.
My right shoulder was pain and could not move well, but after the massage, it was great. I have a pain on next day, but it was worth it.
by Nao on Oct 2017
Verified
Service Received: 60 min - Massage with Akira F.
It was awesome!
I felt very comfortable there.
by Anonymous on Oct 2017
Verified
Service Received: 60 min - Massage with Akira F.
I was able to receive a massage according to the physical condition.
It was a wonderful time.
by Aiko on Oct 2017
Verified
Service Received: 60 min - Massage with Akira F.
I came to see Akira for 60 minutes massage for my upper body. I've been struggling with a severe pain in my right shoulder and arm, and discomfort in my lower back for a couple of weeks.
He did the assessment to determin which area we will focus on for the treatment first, and started the session.
All strokes he used to release the tension were great and very helpful. He is a great therapeutic massage therapist. Highly recommended!
I will defenetly come back!
by Adam on Oct 2017
Verified
Service Received: Bodywork with Akira F.
My wife and I came here to get two, 30 min massages from Akira. I went in for a lower body deep tissue massage. Being a runner, I have a ton of tension in my legs and have received a number of massages over the years. His service and professionalism was top notch! I have also received a 1-hour relaxation massage from him previously and it was just as good. I highly recommend this place!
by Anonymous on Oct 2017
Verified
Service Received: 60 min - Massage with Akira F.
I visited it for the improvement of the pain of my shoulder and back. I realized an effect of treatment. I want to continue going to ZEN in future.
by Meg on Oct 2017
Verified
Service Received: Bodywork with Akira F.
I had an upper body massage session with Akira. I have been fighting with lower back pain for the past few years. After getting his therapy, I feel that my back is much lighter without any pain, and my whole body feels lifted. He pinpointed muscles and relieved the tension of my chronic back pain. His treatment was both therapeutic and relaxing, and he made sure I was comfortable during the whole session. He is a very professional and friendly therapist, and the office has a relaxing atmosphere. I highly recommend him!
by Anonymous on Oct 2017
Verified
Service Received: 60 min - Massage with Akira F.
I was happy to note Akira always starts with questions regarding my health and if I have any new problems, he works on it. He was excellent and has a wonderful touch for both therapeutic and deep tissue work. He is friendly and warm and made the experience very beneficial and relaxing. I found making the appointment an easy online, texting or phone call.I am looking forward to being on a regular schedule of massage to enhance my well-being.