Beijing Spas

Traditional and Western Spas in China's Capital

© Sara Vigrass

Oct 26, 2009
Beijing, tomboy
Both traditional Chinese spas and Westernized spas can be found in Beijing, China. However, the treatments and massage styles vary.

After a tiring day touring one of the world’s largest cities, the spas in Beijing will ease the tension and melt away the stress of any traveler. There are plenty of spa options that can satisfy the needs of patrons looking for a variety of spa experiences. Though traditional Eastern massage is still very popular, expats and tourists have expanded spa choices to reflect Western styles as well. No matter the choice, the spa customer can delight in relaxation.

Traditional Standalone Spas in Beijing

Standalone spas are found throughout Beijing. Though they lack the elaborate amenities of Western spas, they are the best way to experience a more local and cultural treatment. The people of China have enjoyed traditional Chinese massage for centuries. This ancient practice often includes traces of Chinese philosophy, highlighting the opposing yet complimentary forces of yin and yang. Male masseuses will attend to female clients and vice-versa to cultivate a harmonious equilibrium. The treatment generally includes a foot massage known as reflexology. Reflexology treatments can also be experienced independent of a full Chinese massage and are very popular among Beijing citizens.

Western Spa Treatments in Beijing

Western spas mix relaxation with luxury. The high-end spas found mainly in Beijing’s hotels go above and beyond the basic massage. Steam rooms, saunas and Jacuzzis give the customer the ultimate of opulent treatments. Hotel spas can often cost three times the price of a standalone spa. However, a visit to a Western spa in Beijing is still significantly cheaper than spas found in the United States or Europe.

Spa Options in Beijing

To sample the best of Beijing’s spas, visitors can pamper themselves with both types of spa treatments. The Dragonfly is a great option for a traditional local spa, while the Ritz Financial Street is a lavish bet for a full Western Spa experience. Both options will rejuvenate the client, refreshing both the body and the mind. The Mandara, with its wooden and cooper décor is a beautiful escape with a very impressive facial. The 90-minute, “Pearl of the Orient” involves two therapists, five different massage styles and powdered pearls. CHI Spa, in the Shangri-La Hotel, is designed like a Tibetan temple. The therapies are based on the elements of the world: earth, air, wind, water, fire and wood. Tibetan philosophers believed that the harmony of the elements would bring peace to the soul.

With many different types of spas and treatment options, a visit almost any Beijing spa is a great way for travelers to escape everyday pressures and put hectic schedules on the backburner.


The copyright of the article Beijing Spas in China Travel is owned by Sara Vigrass. Permission to republish Beijing Spas in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.


Beijing, tomboy
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