Massage
This is surely one of the most relaxing things you can do in China. There is a long history of massage artistry and this has been refined over the centuries.
Foot massages are easily found and often incorporate body (arms, legs and back usually) massage as well as, sometimes, a bag of hot rocks being rubbed onto your back which is only slightly painful but damn good for you! I know if sounds crazy… but it’s delightful. Head massages are also quite common. The whole package can last a good couple of hours. You shouldn’t be asked to take off your clothes – this is not the norm for these kinds of massages. Prices can range from 50RMB for a foot massage lasting about 30mins, right up to a few hundred RMB for full body, pyjama-style massage in a private room with free green tea, fruit and a TV. It's a fabulous way to relax after a long day at work or visiting. Massage places can be found in older neighbourhoods or somewhere hidden in the many tall buildings and skyscrapers, for example on the 32nd floor. In case you need to check the signs or ask, it is 按摩 (ànmó).
You can also find basic, but high end massage services, in the premium hotels. But expect to pay a fair dollar for these and these tend to be more focused on comfort and elegance than effective massage treatment. The choice is yours.
Now, to talk about the extreme massage, or treatments may be a better word, such as acupuncture. This is not a common thing to do in China and usually only reserved for people who are in serious need, such as those with arthritis.
Another extreme form of massage is 'cupping', which is applying suction glasses across your back. And sometimes in other areas, such as the base of the foot.
In some parts of China, there is a fire massage but these are few and far between. You can try these methods if you dare. The cupping experience is a regular type of treatment, if you need to choose one such method.
They are all perfectly safe and based on Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Every city has numerous TCM hospitals, which function as a fully-fledged hospital complex. In effect, massage is a superb treatment for many modern day ailments, ligament issues and circulatory concerns. You could quite easy come to China for a full on massage treatment as a way to get refreshed in your life.
The final type I should mention is the more seedy type. You can find these hidden in dark streets in various neighbourhoods, usually where old buildings still exist. They use red lights and a 'happy ending'. Be warned. This is illegal. We do not encourage you to visit such establishments and police do undertake raids on such places. Just make sure you avoid the red light ones.
