Anma

Anma (按摩) is the name of those who perform a form of Japanese massage of the same name, which has its origins in China. Anma often practiced in fairly communal business groups in feudal Japan. They were made popular by the famous popular culture character known as Zatoichi, quite possibly the best known and most complimentary portrayal of an individual in their subculture. They were generally nomadic, earning their keep in mobile massage capacities, and paying commissions to their referrers. They were surrounded by many superstitions as well, and some have been utilized for comedy in some Japanese films.