Chinese and Japanese Acupuncture

The Difference between Chinese and Japanese Acupuncture

Acupuncture came to Japan from China around the year 562 A.D. where it continued its development. When Japan modernized prior to World War II, the Japanese government banned the use of herbal medicines by acupuncturists. Today in Japan, herbal medicine can only be prescribed by pharmacists and medical doctors. As a result, Japanese acupuncturists can only get results through the use of acupuncture, without relying on herbal medicines.

One form of Japanese Acupuncture, called Traditional Japanese Method or Meridian Therapy, has its roots in the ancient acupuncture practiced in China during the Golden Age of Chinese Medicine. Its focus comes from two ancient texts, both written about two thousand years ago, which are considered by today’s standards as the high point of accumulated acupuncture knowledge. As a result, Meridian Therapy is extremely efficient at not only balancing the body’s systems, but also building up energy.

Another hallmark of Traditional Japanese Acupuncture is a strong emphasis on needle technique. Japanese acupuncturists spend considerable time training on how to perform painless and effective needling.