Meet Yuta Matsumoto | Hair Stylist / Owner of PINOK STUDIO

We had the good fortune of connecting with Yuta Matsumoto and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Yuta, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
When I moved to the U.S. from Japan in 2012, I never imagined I would one day open my own salon here. After working as a salon manager for five years, I began to notice a common challenge in the industry: many hairstylists were working independently, with little sense of teamwork or community. There was also a lack of structured education and hands-on training for assistants and junior stylists. Because of that, I saw so many talented individuals struggle to build their clientele — and unfortunately, many ended up leaving the industry altogether.

When I started PINOK STUDIO, my goal was to change that. I wanted to create a salon that prioritized mentorship, teamwork, and growth. A space where hard-working, passionate stylists could learn, thrive, and build lasting careers. More than just a salon, I wanted to build a supportive community — and I’m proud of what we’re creating together.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
At PINOK STUDIO, we focus on personalized hair care with a strong emphasis on hospitality and attention to detail. What sets us apart is our commitment to teamwork, education, and creating a welcoming experience for every client. Every stylist is supported with ongoing hands-on training and mentorship, so we grow together as a team — not just as individuals.

Building a strong team wasn’t easy. Like many small businesses, we faced enormous challenges during COVID-19. There were moments when I truly thought we might lose everything. But that difficult time brought us even closer. We learned how to adapt, support each other, and stay focused on our shared values. Today, I’m proud to say our team is stronger, more unified, and more passionate than ever.

I want the world to know that PINOK STUDIO isn’t just a salon — it’s a community. A place where stylists and clients alike can feel supported, respected, and seen. Our goal is not only to help people look their best, but also to create an experience that brings peace, confidence, and connection.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend was visiting, I’d definitely start with a Dodgers game — I’m a huge Dodgers fan, and there’s nothing like the energy at Dodger Stadium! It’s a must-do for any trip to LA.

I’m also a surfer, so if they’re up for it, I’d take them to try surfing in California. One of my favorite beginner-friendly spots is in Malibu — it’s scenic, relaxed, and perfect for catching your first wave. After that, we’d grab tacos or fresh seafood nearby to refuel.

For food, I’d mix it up — maybe Korean BBQ in K-town one night, sushi in Little Tokyo, and some good brunch spots in Pasadena. And of course, I’d take them around the local gems: hiking at Griffith Park for city views, strolling down Abbot Kinney in Venice, and checking out art and culture at The Broad or MOCA.

Mostly, I’d just want to give them a taste of what I love about living here — good food, ocean air, baseball, and the kind of easy, open energy that makes LA feel like home.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I owe so much to the friends who helped me when I started my business. At the time, I had a big language barrier and very little experience as a business owner in the U.S. They supported me through every step — from finding the right location, handling paperwork, budgeting, and even hiring my first team members. Their guidance and encouragement gave me the confidence to take the leap. I truly couldn’t have done it without them, and I’ll always be grateful for their support.

Website: https://www.pinokstudio.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pinokstudio/?hl=en

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/pinok-studio-by-matsumoto-pasadena

Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@pinokstudio