YK Spa

What: Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioner Massage (30 min), Cupping Therapy (30 min)

Where: Floor 3, 111 Yili Nan Lu, near Guyang Lu. Tel: 137 6473 4668

Why: You’re looking for a reputable traditional Chinese treatment

How much: RMB 380 and RMB 380 respectively

The vast selection of garishly neon-lit massage parlours all over the city makes it difficult to know where to go for a decent traditional massage. Fortunately, you’ll find yourself in safe hands at the newly opened YK Spa in Gubei, lovingly decorated in lilac and cream hues, where qualified doctors are on hand to deliver a range of treatments, including traditional Chinese therapies such as moxibustion (holding incense over the body to strengthen resistance to disease) and cupping therapy (where hot cups are placed over the back to remove toxins). Acupuncture, hair removal, and very reasonably priced botox (RMB 500 upwards) are also available.

The applied pressure of a traditional Chinese massage is perhaps more intense than your average spa treatment, but your masseuse will be careful to check the intensity and tell you the benefits of applying intensity to certain pressure points. My therapist, Dr Hong, pointed out which areas of my body were in most need of straightening out, and carefully talked me through why he was applying more pressure to some areas over others, and how this would benefit me in the future. After my treatment, Dr Hong offered advice on correcting my posture to ensure that I didn’t encounter the same pains again – providing a personal service that you often won’t find at any other spa in town.

There are few members of the spa onsite who speak English, but asking at the reception for Ms. He from the Skincare Department will remove any language barriers you might otherwise have, ensuring you a satisfactory experience.