MASSAGE & RELAXATION · Japan
This is the shortlist you would send a friend: 9 massage & spa time that earn their slot, each with a price, a traveller verdict and the one thing to know before committing.
In Ikebukuro, Tokyo, try Japanese face sculpting, micro-bubble scalp cleansing, and pelvic alignment in a small-group salon from $69.
“They were not able to be flexible with running into issues of finding the location. With no refunds available (not willing) , I hope my money goes towards the Christmas party. SMH! Would not recommend.”
Matcha facial and head spa inside a temple experience in Osaka, with incense meditation, foot bath, tea ceremony, and yukata photos.
“I found this an amazing experience overall, including massage, tea ceremony, head spa, matcha mask, and a foot bath from a very kind gentleman. He doesn't speak much English but the translate app works wonders. Besides, you don't have to talk much. You just enjoy. I came back so relaxed and happy. Unique experience, escaping from all the buzz of the city”
Osaka temple warm bamboo oil massage with fascia release and incense ritual, includes a welcome drink and keepsake smartphone photos.
“We had a great massage at this beautiful temple. The location is like an oasis in a bustling area of the city. The temple is beautiful. We felt very welcomed and the massage was so relaxing. Both masseuses spoke English very well and were accommodating to our requests as to where to focus the massages. They even gave us some suggestions as to how to work our especially tight areas. It was a great end to our two week trip in Japan. If you’re on the fence, definitely go for it as it’s a lovely experience.”
Osaka’s Naniwa-no-Yu onsen on the 8th floor. Carbonated mineral baths, city views, simple pricing, and clear etiquette tips.
“I wasn't able to pull up my QR code so had to pay in person. Can I get a refund? Thank you. Carolyn”
Warm bamboo oil massage in an Osaka temple, plus Zen meditation, tea ceremony with matcha sweets, yukata, and photos for keepsakes.
“Very nice experience. Massage was good and a new experience learning about tea ceremony and matcha. Feels very calm afterwards.”
Osaka Zen temple massage and matcha facial with bamboo fascia release, tea ceremony, yukata, foot bath, and photos, in 3 hours.
“Wonderful relaxing and peaceful experience. Exactly what is needed after a few days of exploring.”
A 2-hour Tokyo head spa with microscopic scalp checks, water-jet peeling, a technical massage, and a sake-packed scalp moisturizer.
“This was a very relaxing experience. The therapist I was with, Mieko, was good at conversing with me despite us usually needing Google Translate as an intermediary. I came out of the experience with healthier hair and some good advice to keep it that way. If I find myself back in Tokyo I’d do it again.”
Private 2-hour Kyoto body and head massage near Kyoto Station, with shiatsu or aroma oil to ease jet lag and sore muscles.
“This was the best massage that I have ever had! Nanami and her colleague were very thorough with the Shiatsu and we are very pleased with the service! I highly recommend Nanami for a massage!”
Private Hiroshima acupuncture and Japanese chiropractic in a quiet room, near the Atomic Bomb Dome, with qualified professionals and disposable needles.
“Very friendly excellent treatment first time acupuncture and treatment helping my back and neck.”
Pick the kind of day first. The tour comes second.
