The Art and Science of Relaxation: Japanese Massage Chair Maker Fujiiryōki

Fujiiryōki President Nakai Tadahito has earned the nickname “massage chair sommelier” for his expertise.

Various models of Fujiiryōki massage chairs. The Cyber Relax AS-1100 is at center.

The Fuji Automatic Massage Machine, the world’s first mass-produced massage chair. (Photo courtesy of Fujiiryōki)

Fujiiryōki founder Fujimoto Nobuo. He launched the company with a four-man team: him, his wife and son, and a salesman. (Photo courtesy of Fujiiryōki)

Fujiiryōki’s Kāsan FM-52 massage chair. (Photo courtesy of Fujiiryōki)

The Royal Chair MC-133 was the first model with a footrest and massaging airbags. (Photo courtesy of Fujiiryōki)

The AS-1100 delivers a foot massage using air bags, heaters, and specialized rollers. (Images courtesy of Fujiiryōki)

The latest Cyber Relax has 31 different stretching functions. (Image courtesy of Fujiiryōki)

Fujiiryōki President Nakai Tadahito (right) demonstrates the functions of one of his firm’s massage chairs.