Hair stylist Maki Ito said, "It's great to see such a range of expressions. Now I want to try new styles at my own salon."

Fashion-savvy students also filled up the audience as they remained glued to the latest techniques. 23-year-old Ritsuko Kao is a fashion student hoping to join one of Tokyo's top salons in the future.

Student Ritsuko Kato said, "It was very refreshing to see new styles with my own eyes. I usually read fashion magazines to learn about them, but I really got a first-hand lesson today."

Hair salons across Japan joined together to start the show in 1999 with the hope of making the event a learning opportunity for aspiring hair stylists across the nation. Now into its 11th year, the annual show attracts top salons and guests from all across Asia.

(CCTV March 6, 2009)