Shanghai Massage Guide: Types, Prices & Where to Go
Finding the best massage centre in Shanghai isn't just about picking the cheapest treatment or the most luxurious spa. In fact, the city now offers a huge variety of options, with significant differences in services, prices, and the quality of the experience.
In this Trip.com guide, you'll find a selection of the best therapeutic massage centres and beauty treatments in Shanghai, along with useful tips to help you choose the perfect option for your needs.
💆 Types of Massage Treatments in Shanghai
The range of spas and wellness centres in Shanghai is vast, with very attractive prices for European visitors. To calculate the cost of the best massages in Shanghai, it is worth noting that at the time of writing this guide, £1 is equivalent to approximately CNY 8.96 (Chinese yuan, ¥). The prices shown are indicative and may vary depending on the exchange rate applied at the time of your trip.
Traditional Chinese massage
Other traditional treatments: cupping and moxibustion
Back and neck massage: express option
Full body massage
Foot massage
Aromatherapy and wellness journeys
💡 Massage notice: The massages available at most massage centres are primarily for relaxation and relief from fatigue, and do not constitute medical treatments. In the event of muscular or joint issues, we recommend consulting qualified healthcare facilities, such as rehabilitation or traditional medicine departments, where a specialist doctor can provide a diagnosis and recommend the most appropriate treatment.
Book a spa hotel in Shanghai and enjoy massage treatments, wellness facilities, and in-room spa services all in one stay.
Best spa hotels in Shanghai
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NO.1
💰 Shanghai Massage Prices: How Much Does a Treatment Cost?
Massage prices in Shanghai vary depending on location, duration, and the level of the spa. It is always advisable to check the updated price lists directly, as they may change due to renovations or seasonality.
Treatment type | Average duration | Average price in CNY (¥) | Average price in GBP (£) |
Foot massage | 60 min | ¥ 120–250 | £10–£21 |
Full body massage | 60 min | ¥ 180–400 | £15–£34 |
Tui Na massage | 60 min | ¥ 200–600 | £17–£51 |
Cupping therapy | 15–20 min | ¥ 100–150 | £8–£13 |
Moxibustion | 60 min | ¥ 300–500 | £26–£43 |
Back & neck massage | 60 min | ¥ 140–300 | £12–£26 |
Aromatherapy massage | 90 min | ¥ 400–800 | £34–£68 |
90 min | ¥ 900–2,000 | £77–£170 |
Currency Converter
*Rates are for reference only and may vary
♨️ Best Areas for Massage in Shanghai for Foreigners
Tourists visiting the city who are looking for a massage centre in Shanghai often prefer establishments accustomed to working with an international clientele. The most recommended areas in this regard are the French Concession, Jing’an, the Bund, and Lujiazui, where many international hotel spas and some wellness chains have English-speaking staff, online booking systems, and treatments specifically designed for foreign travellers.
Where to find massages in Shanghai on Nanjing Road
Nanjing Road is one of the most popular areas for international tourists and is home to several massage centres that are easily accessible on foot or by metro. Here you will mainly find foot reflexology centres, wellness chains geared towards foreign visitors, and spas within luxury hotels, such as the Willow Stream Spa at the Fairmont Peace Hotel, which we will discuss in more detail later.
🎁 Enjoy a 5% discount on your first booking for attractions and tours in Shanghai!
💡 How to Choose a Good Massage Parlour in Shanghai?
Whether you're looking for exclusive experiences or budget-friendly massages in Shanghai, it's worth considering a few key aspects before choosing a treatment, as they can affect the quality of your experience. Consider these practical aspects to avoid any unwanted surprises:
📍 Where to Get the Best Massage in Shanghai (Recommended Spas)
If you're looking for a massage centre in Shanghai, here are four options representing different price ranges, areas of the city, and types of treatment.
Shanghai Kangyou Siji (great value for money)
The Hankou Road branch, in the Huangpu district, is located opposite the police station, just a few minutes from the East Nanjing Road (lines 2 and 10) and People's Square (lines 1, 2 and 8) metro stations. It offers traditional Chinese massages, aromatherapy, and foot reflexology, with prices starting from around ¥195 (£21). The facility is open every day from 11:00 to 00:00.
Dragonfly Therapeutic Retreat (ideal for international visitors)
The group's properties are appreciated for their ease of booking and their focus on an international clientele that prefers to communicate in English. The indicative opening hours are currently every day from 10:00 to 23:45, but it is always recommended to check the official website.
Willow Stream Spa at the Fairmont Peace Hotel (luxury on the Bund)
This is a particularly suitable option for those wishing to combine high-level wellness treatments with a visit to one of the city's most iconic locations. The opening hours indicated on the spa's official website are 11:00-22:00, while the hotel pool is accessible from 07:00. The nearest metro station is East Nanjing Road (lines 2 and 10).
Water’s Edge Spa at the Park Hyatt Shanghai (luxury in Pudong)
Shanghai Spa & Massage Comparison (Zones, Prices & Opening Hours)
Spa / Massage | Best for | Area | Nearest Metro | Category | Opening hours |
Shanghai Kangyou Siji | Good value for money | Huangpu (Hankou Road) + other locations | East Nanjing Road / People’s Square | Mid-range | 11:00–24:00 |
Dragonfly Therapeutic Retreat | Very popular with international visitors | Former French Concession (Xinle Road) + other branches | South Shaanxi Road | Mid-range | 10:00–23:45 |
Willow Stream Spa (Fairmont Peace Hotel) | Luxury spa experience on the Bund | The Bund | East Nanjing Road | Luxury | 11:00–22:00 |
Water’s Edge Spa (Park Hyatt Shanghai) | Premium skyline views in Pudong | Lujiazui (Pudong) | Lujiazui | Luxury | 10:00–23:00 |
Our Top Picks
5 star
Very Good11713 Reviews
People's Square Shanghai|0.54km from city centre
If you travel in Shanghai, in my opinion this hotel is one of your best choices. The room is clean and comfortable, and also which is the most important thing is it is very convincing for visitor to find it. And almost all the famous places for visitor that must have a visit are just nearby the hotel. It is on the Nanjing Road and you can just walk to the Waitan and Lujiazui very convinice to visitors.
Last I really wanna show my sincerely thanks to all staffs especially Mr.Jimmy Zhu and Staff No.078 staff. During our staying, they really showed their professionalism and helped us a lot. As a visitor, I really appreciate it and thanks.From£75
Outstanding6666 Reviews
People's Square Shanghai|0.47km from city centre
I randomly picked this hotel for a business trip, and it completely exceeded my expectations – a pleasant surprise! The location is incredibly convenient, and the service quality of this long-standing hotel is truly exceptional. Many of the staff members are locals from Shanghai, and they are all incredibly friendly and approachable. You can always see many international guests around the hotel, which clearly indicates that it's consistently busy. The overall experience was fantastic, and I highly recommend it!From£85
Outstanding10150 Reviews
Train Station Area Shanghai|2.4km from city centre
A top choice for business travelers! The hotel is conveniently located, close to the metro station and commercial areas. The room is spacious and quiet, perfect for working and resting, with smooth internet access. The cleanliness is excellent, and the bedding is comfortable, ensuring a good night's sleep. The front desk handled check-in efficiently, and the service was attentive. The breakfast spread was rich and varied. Overall, I had a very satisfying experience and will prioritize staying here for future business trips.From£60
Very Good5143 Reviews
Huaihai Road Area Shanghai|1.78km from city centre
Big thumbs up for the Garden Hotel! I came specifically to stay here for two nights, having heard great things, and I truly experienced the professionalism, warmth, attentiveness, and courtesy of a top-notch hotel. I enjoyed the cleanliness, tranquility, comfort, and a wonderfully unconstrained sense of relaxation. I believe the Garden Hotel has a strong competitive edge in Shanghai, characterized by its approachability and welcoming atmosphere.From£96
Outstanding9439 Reviews
The Bund Area Shanghai|1.73km from city centre
Overall, I was very satisfied with my stay. The hygiene was good, and the room layout was well-designed. The shower and toilet were separate, which was convenient. There was also a vanity table for women, which was super helpful – no more standing while doing makeup! 👍👍 This hotel is incredibly female-friendly.
The location is excellent; it's about a 5-minute walk to the Huangpu River, giving direct access to bustling areas. You can quickly visit Shanghai's iconic landmarks, and Yu Garden is right next door with plenty of delicious food options and even travel photography services.
The breakfast was incredibly rich and diverse. Eating there before heading out for some sightseeing really brightened up my day! I'll definitely stay here again next time I visit! 😝😝From£79
8723 Reviews
The North Bund Area Shanghai|2.55km from city centre
The hotel's location is convenient, not far from the subway station, making it very easy for commuting and getting things done. The overall style of the hotel is simple and elegant, the lobby has a great atmosphere, the hallways are quiet, and the soundproofing is excellent, so you won't be disturbed by outside noise at all. The room layout is well-designed, with clear distinctions between the work and rest areas, and the room size is ample, so it doesn't feel cramped. The room cleanliness is impeccable, and the toiletries have a fresh scent. The bedding is comfortable, allowing for a good rest and relaxation after a busy day. Front desk staff Z handled check-in and extension procedures quickly and even proactively offered recommendations for nearby dining and shopping spots. The hotel has a gym and a self-service laundry room, providing complete amenities. Overall, the stay was comfortable and reassuring. Choosing this hotel was a great decision, and I will definitely book it again in the future.From£71
Family friendly
Very Good4118 Reviews
Jing'an District Shanghai|2.6km from city centre
The hotel was exceptionally clean and tidy. It was recommended by my foreign colleagues for my business trip to Shanghai. The surrounding area is bustling, located in the core business district of Jing'an Temple, making it very convenient for subway travel, shopping, and sightseeing. The bedding in the room was soft and comfortable, and the soundproofing was excellent, ensuring a good night's rest for my business trip. I happened to be there during a typhoon with heavy rain in Shanghai, and I particularly appreciate the doorman who promptly helped with my luggage. The front desk and room service were professional and attentive. The executive lounge experience was outstanding, with excellent food. From the room window, I could enjoy panoramic views of the beautiful surroundings.From£68
Outstanding7491 Reviews
Dapuqiao Area Shanghai|2.92km from city centre
Decent stay, but several misses for a 5-star property
My stay at the Pullman Shanghai Central was a mixed bag—nice in some areas, but disappointing in others.
Check-in: The staff were very friendly and welcoming on our first day. However, I was surprised that they wouldn't let me check in until 3:00 PM. At most other hotels, I'm usually able to get an early check-in (even if I arrive at noon), so this felt a bit rigid for a property of this level.
The Room: The room itself was comfortable—the bed was soft and the shower pressure was actually perfect (not too strong, not too weak, just right). Unfortunately, the room smelled strongly of cigarette smoke upon arrival. To their credit, when I called the front desk, they immediately offered to change my room, which was very professional of them.
Breakfast: This was the biggest letdown. The breakfast buffet felt more like what you'd expect from a 3-star hotel rather than a 5-star Pullman. The quality and selection just weren't there for me.
Overall: It was an okay stay—nothing terrible, but nothing exceptional either. I wouldn't rate it a 10/10, more like a solid 6. Good service from the staff, but the check-in policy, smoke issue, and food really held it back.From£70
Good3775 Reviews
The Bund Area Shanghai|1.27km from city centre
An iconic building, the lovely Lotus Tower! It's definitely worth a stay. The suite space is quite good 👌. Although the floor isn't high, the view is excellent; you can see the Oriental Pearl TV Tower right from your bed. I was very pleased with the bedroom lighting; the brightness was perfect. The bathroom layout was also good, and the shower pressure was strong! Overall, it was great. The breakfast wasn't as lavish as I expected, but it was sufficient!From£102
Outstanding13770 Reviews
Lujiazui Area Shanghai|2.51km from city centre
When in Lujiazui, Pudong Shangri-La is always my first choice. The hotel is well-maintained, and Sean Zhu, the front desk manager, arranged my room in advance. I'm very satisfied with it – it's spacious with a great view. He was friendly and polite. The room was exceptionally clean, and any requests were promptly attended to. During check-in, he also helped register my license plate into the system. Overall, it was an excellent experience, and I'll definitely stay here again on my next visit to Shanghai.From£128
Excellent8647 Reviews
People's Square Shanghai|0.7km from city centre
Our stay at the Marriott was overall very satisfying. 👍 Upon arrival, the front desk proactively upgraded our room and offered complimentary breakfast for our child, which made for a very pleasant experience. My child went swimming on the sixth floor for two consecutive days. The hotel staff were very attentive, providing towels and water, and there was a lifeguard on duty. The swimming area environment was also excellent. The hotel room size was decent, and the cleanliness was good. It came with a bathtub, which my child loved 💕, although the toilet was a bit old. I'd like to praise the hotel's delicious breakfast 😋, which offered both Chinese and Western sections. The restaurant was spacious with a beautiful ambiance and a wide variety of food options, definitely something to look forward to! The overall check-in experience was great; the lobby staff were very responsive to all requests. Food delivery robots could bring orders directly to our room. When we left, they even gave us small toys as souvenirs. We will definitely visit again!From£112
Outstanding10310 Reviews
She Shan, Songjiang University Town Shanghai|35.83km from city centre
I just turned 70, and my family arranged for me to stay at the InterContinental Shanghai Wonderland. Upon entering the lobby, I was deeply captivated by the mesmerizing water curtain display – it was truly magical. Check-in was handled in a flash by the front desk, and I must give a huge shout-out to MAiA and our butler, Nisha. They left a wonderful impression on my entire family, making us feel right at home. Additionally, the F&B manager, after learning about my health condition, helped me out of a difficult situation, and I am incredibly grateful. All in all, the hotel's hardware and software are excellent. I will definitely visit again.From£158
Breakfast
Outstanding2435 Reviews
Wujiaochang Commercial Area Shanghai|9.08km from city centre
Every stay at Pagoda Hotel Wujiaochang has been a great experience. The location is superb, right in the Wujiaochang business district. It's within walking distance to Hopson One and Wanda Plaza, which is incredibly convenient, and also very close to Fudan University campus.
The front desk staff are very welcoming, and both check-in and check-out are handled very efficiently. The room layout is well-designed, and cleanliness is excellent. The bedding is very comfortable, with just the right balance of softness and firmness.
The smart room control system is very convenient, and the bathroom has a great wet/dry separation. The toiletries also have a pleasant scent. The breakfast offers a wide variety of options and tastes good. Overall, it offers great value for money, and I will definitely choose to stay here again!From£59
Very Good1750 Reviews
Everbright Convention and Exhibition Center Shanghai|12.35km from city centre
This was my first stay at Artyzen Hotel, and I was extremely satisfied with the overall experience. The hotel has a great environment, offers excellent value for money, and the staff are warm and attentive. The breakfast quality was superb, and the common areas were beautiful and well-equipped. The hotel's surroundings are quiet, yet transportation is incredibly convenient. It's just a 2-3 minute walk to the subway station and MixC shopping mall, and about a 10-minute walk to Korea Town. Definitely a worthwhile stay!From£21
Good3442 Reviews
People's Square Shanghai|0.62km from city centre
The front desk staff were very friendly, and the surrounding area is nice. The location is excellent. I'll definitely stay here again next time.From£35
Outstanding3642 Reviews
She Shan, Songjiang University Town Shanghai|26.04km from city centre
The room was clean and modern, and the balcony offered a great view. The front desk staff proactively upgraded me to an executive room, which got plenty of sunlight. The service was excellent, and the location near the Songjiang attractions was very convenient thanks to the PATA house.From£41
Very Good524 Reviews
Hongqiao International Airport Area Shanghai|15.59km from city centre
Location: Conveniently situated, directly accessible from Hongqiao Railway Station underground, after passing through the complex, so there's no need to go above ground to find it. Dining and other amenities are also easily accessible.
Hygiene: Satisfied, quite clean.
Facilities: Well-equipped, though the air conditioning was a bit difficult to adjust.
Service: A big commendation to the front desk duty manager who answered the phone and handled my issue on the evening of March 13th. There was a slight problem with my room type upon check-in, and the duty manager resolved it promptly and with a sincere attitude. Very satisfied!From£67
Excellent1881 Reviews
Kangqiao, Nanhui Area Shanghai|28.21km from city centre
The hotel service was excellent. When I arrived at Xinchang subway station, they thoughtfully arranged a car to pick me up, which was a pleasant surprise for my family! The hotel's overall hardware and environment also really impressed me; the library and reading area on the first floor showcases the hotel's refined taste. The room was also very large and clean, with a green view outside the window, which greatly enhanced our vacation experience. Later, something happened that really touched me: my family accidentally lost our room key, and two front desk staff members promptly helped us resolve the issue. I'm especially grateful for that. Choosing this hotel for a short weekend getaway was truly a stroke of luck. Many people going to Disneyland also stay here, as they provide shuttle services in the morning and evening. I'll definitely stay at Qiuzhu again next time I visit Disneyland!From£39
Gym
Very Good5694 Reviews
People's Square Shanghai|0.9km from city centre
The room is very spacious. The location is right on Nanjing Road, making it super easy to find places to eat, shop, or buy souvenirs. The breakfast was decent with a good variety of options.From£83
Outstanding4543 Reviews
Huaihai Road Area Shanghai|0.97km from city centre
1. **Unbeatable Location**
Stepping out, you're right in the Xintiandi Shikumen district. Huangpi South Road Metro Station is just a 2-3 minute walk away, and Huaihai Road and K11 are very close, making it super convenient for shopping, late-night snacks, and exhibitions. High-floor rooms offer panoramic views of Xintiandi's nightscape, perfect for travel, dates, or business trips.
2. **Excellent Dining Options**
* **Breakfast**: Highly acclaimed for its quality and fresh ingredients, with a wide selection of Chinese and Western dishes. Served until 11 AM on weekends. The noodle bar is popular and might require queuing during peak hours.
* **T'ang Court**: A Michelin Two-Star Cantonese restaurant, and one of the hotel's signature dining venues.
* **Lobby Lounge**: Offers the classic Langham Champagne Afternoon Tea. The Cachet Restaurant features a live band, creating a great ambiance that attracts many visitors specifically for the dining experience.
3. **Generally Good Service**
Most guests report prompt responses from the front desk and housekeeping. Turndown service is provided. Guests celebrating birthdays often receive a complimentary small cake. Member benefits are generous, with some guests receiving free room upgrades.
Standard toiletries are from Diptyque, with a sophisticated scent. Rooms are equipped with wireless charging, a wet/dry separated bathroom, and a dual setup of a bathtub and shower.
4. **Recreational Facilities**
Located on B1, there's a heated indoor swimming pool with excellent natural light and long opening hours. A 24-hour gym is available, and the Forbes Four-Star 'Chuan SPA' offers traditional Chinese treatments.From£138
Very Good3269 Reviews
Jing'an District Shanghai|2.12km from city centre
The hotel was indeed good. They called me the day before, but it felt more like a formality after I added them on WeChat. From check-in to check-out, there was no follow-up or care from them. However, after I booked the hotel and contacted them myself, Kira from Guest Relations reached out to me. She was incredibly responsible and stayed in touch with us throughout our stay, from check-in to check-out, helping us with a lot of things! The sensor light in the wardrobe was broken and stayed on constantly, which was a bit bothersome, especially at night when it affected my sleep. Also, there was an unremovable stain on the duvet cover, which they later replaced. Overall, it was pretty good.From£117
Excellent5711 Reviews
The Bund Area Shanghai|1.78km from city centre
Honestly, this hotel🏨 is perfect in every way except for the price. We stayed in a connecting suite, which is essentially two rooms connected by a living room. It was very convenient for a family. As connecting rooms are in the executive area, the stay included breakfast, afternoon tea, and a light dinner. If you don't need to entertain, having a light meal at the hotel is quite nice. The air conditioning in the hotel was incredibly strong, to the point where I got stomach cramps from being frozen for the last two days😭. In the evenings, the hotel has an old-fashioned 'senior' music hall, where 70-year-olds perform. The gentleman playing the piano looked very familiar to me, and later the staff said he had been on CCTV, haha! My parents loved listening to the old songs. The music hall has a minimum spend of around 400 RMB per person! The hotel also has an afternoon tea dance hall where many people dance ballroom, which is quite interesting. On the 9th floor, there's an outdoor bar with amazing views of the Huangpu River and the Oriental Pearl Tower at night. The hotel also has a museum detailing its history from its inception to the present day, which is quite fascinating. There are daily guided tours, which are pretty fun to listen to. My daughter and I even took a set of beautiful photos with the hotel's old pictures. I truly hope the Peace Hotel continues to thrive.From£225
Outstanding18699 Reviews
Lujiazui Area Shanghai|3.12km from city centre
This was my third stay at the Grand Hyatt Pudong within a relatively short period, and once again it was an excellent experience.
This time I stayed in a Club Room on the 80th floor. The room was slightly smaller than on my previous stay, but the spectacular view more than made up for it. I also had some work to do during my stay, and there are certainly worse places to sit with a laptop.
The Club Lounge is excellent. Breakfast there is much more relaxed than on the 53rd floor, with a quieter atmosphere and more than enough choice, including omelettes, noodle soup, fruit, vegetables and several hot dishes.
As I stayed over the weekend, I also enjoyed the afternoon tea and the evening food offering. If you do not feel like going out, there is easily enough to make a proper meal of it. The quality is genuinely impressive and among the best I have experienced in a hotel club lounge.
Five stars plus. Everything was excellent.From£126
Outstanding4548 Reviews
Lujiazui Area Shanghai|2.69km from city centre
This is my second time at the Ritz-Carlton Pudong, and the facilities are, as expected, top-notch. Since I have a flight to the UK in two days, I decided to spend both days fully enjoying the hotel experience. The concierge team thoughtfully prepared extra bottled water for me in advance, and also gifted me a little lion charm and a personalized room key. The handwritten card was a truly warm and sincere touch, showing they remembered details I had mentioned, and they even helped me with restaurant reservations. I also took the opportunity to experience the Ritz-Carlton spa. While the price might be a bit higher, the quality of service and the staff's attitude are absolutely impeccable.From£245
Business travel
Excellent6788 Reviews
People's Square Shanghai|1.13km from city centre
Location of the hotel is excellent but do note that when taking didi / taxi, they will not be able to pick / drop you directly in front of the hotel, but the walk is minimal, like less than 5 minutes. Metro station is also around the corner, like about 8 minutes walk. Lots of restaurants just directly opposite the hotel. Hotel deco is a bit old, sound proofing not good, always can hear when people walk / run pass the corridor, sometimes can even hear voices from next door. Can see the Oriental Pearl from the corridor. Don't like the tubed toiletries, especially if you are travelling with others, just 1 tube of body wash (eg) might not be sufficient for 1 day's use. Will consider staying here again if visiting SH again during non-peak season.From£60
Outstanding6027 Reviews
The Bund Area Shanghai|1.65km from city centre
The room itself was pretty good, but a major drawback is that it never gets any sunlight! The view from the window was just a narrow platform between buildings. However, the breakfast was nice, and the location is excellent. For Shanghai, this hotel offers great value for money!From£75
Very Good5098 Reviews
The Bund Area Shanghai|2.48km from city centre
Thanks to Lorna, the Hyatt on the Bund has become my home in Shanghai.
On New Year's Eve, spanning 2025 into 2026, I stayed at the Hyatt on the Bund and met Lorna. The hotel was incredibly busy due to the New Year's crowd, and I had initially just planned to 'stay anywhere.' However, Lorna's service truly touched me. She not only proactively helped me arrange my room but also meticulously informed me about the Bund's New Year's Eve traffic control times and routes. When I casually mentioned wanting a quiet place to see the river view, she even went out of her way to confirm the room's view for me. Those two nights, that feeling of being genuinely cared for felt exceptionally warm amidst the New Year's Eve bustle, leaving me with a deep impression of the hotel.
Returning to Shanghai this year, I hardly hesitated. My first thought was to contact Lorna and ask if she was still working at the Hyatt. Upon hearing she was, I booked a room directly – I can genuinely say that my choice of the Hyatt this time was entirely because of her. Seeing her again, she was as warm and professional as ever. This feeling of being genuinely looked after is truly rare.
The Hyatt on the Bund's location, river views, and facilities are, of course, excellent. But what truly brings me back again and again are people like Lorna, who provide service with such dedication. Thank you, Lorna, and thank you, Hyatt, for giving me a 'home' in Shanghai that I can always think of fondly.From£110
Good2630 Reviews
Jing'an District Shanghai|0.85km from city centre
My friend was only staying in Shanghai for a day, so naturally, I wanted to give her an itinerary that offered both 'old-world charm and new-age chic.' While passing Nanjing West Road recently, this InterContinental 'Luxury Collection' hotel immediately caught my eye. And just as I expected, critical as she is, she complimented my taste the moment she walked in.
Its most appealing features are its convenient location and its ability to be a tranquil oasis amidst the bustle: step outside, and you're on the vibrant Nanjing Road; turn around, and you're in the quiet serenity of a residential area. My friend said the elevator decor instantly made her feel like she'd 'traveled through time,' and that unique 'Haitian style' evoked long-lost memories of Shanghai. She had originally come to sightsee but happily spent most of her day lingering at the hotel.
What she loved most were the terrace and the restaurant. On a summer evening, the breeze felt just like those childhood nights spent cooling off in the alleyways – she used to live in a Shikumen house. She remarked, 'If only I could lie in a wicker chair, fan myself with a palm-leaf fan, eat watermelon, and watch an outdoor movie, that would be truly divine.' She also adored the red hanging ornament in the lobby; it was vibrantly bright, yet its glass texture gave it a lively feel, much like Shanghai's character – passionate yet steady, with a touch of lightness within its composure.
The food did not disappoint either. I pushed her to try the Shiqipu Noodle Restaurant, where the owner asked in Shanghainese, 'Mi dao ai hao fa?' (Is the taste good?), and she smiled and replied, 'Authentic,' instantly tearing up. She specifically bought the sweet variety of butterfly pastries from the International Hotel – saying 'only sweet is truly Shanghai.' Her only regret was: having stayed in too many foreign-style grand hotels, this time, with Shanghai elements everywhere and Shanghai flavors in every bite, it was 'just missing the sound of Shanghai.' Perhaps the cicada chirps in the alleyways and the hawkers' cries from the Shikumen are the hometown sounds she truly yearns to hear.
However, she has already declared: the next time she returns, this will be her chosen hotel, and she plans to visit all the routes I arranged. I believe the charm of Shanghai has never been in its superficial glamour but in its ability to always find the most fitting way to blend East and West, ancient and modern, living as a unique 'Haipai' (Shanghai style). This is also the root that every Shanghainese person cherishes.
Below are the three half-day itinerary options I created for her, which I've also compiled here, hoping they might help someone else:
Option 1 · A Stroll Through Old Shanghai Charm
Start from the hotel's main entrance on Fengyang Road and turn into Huanghe Road. The Changjiang Building and Changjiang Theater were the last residences of Eileen Chang; Huanghe Road is the origin of 'Blossoms Shanghai' (Fan Hua). The International Hotel is where her mother and aunt once stayed; next to it, the Sports Museum is rumored to be where Eileen Chang used to study. Diagonally opposite is the History Museum (formerly the Racecourse); the East Wing houses the old bronze lions from the HSBC Building on the Bund, and the 'Echoes of Shanghai' exhibition in the West Wing happens to talk about the past of Fengyang Road. The ornate windows of the West Wing and the Changjiang Building, mirroring the hotel's architecture, perfectly showcase the most fashionable Art Deco style of the 1930s.
Option 2 · Tracing Red Memories
Walk along Chengdu North Road to the Secretariat of the China Labor Movement, to see how Shanghai workers united into a revolutionary force; then visit the former site of the Songpu Special Committee. Go to the Sihang Warehouse to hear the echoes of the Battle of Shanghai and see the bullet-riddled walls recount the tragedy of that year. At night, turn into Xiang Kang Li on Xinchang Road to find the former site of the CCP Central Committee's secret printing press; on Nanjing West Road, there is also the former site of the Soviet Liaison Office, where, amidst the flickering lights, memories of the past reside.
Option 3 · Modern and Retro Collision
The LV 'Big Boat' on Nanjing West Road is currently a popular spot for photos; after visiting, turn into Wujiang Road for shopping and dining, and further ahead is Zhangyuan Shikumen – where new trends emerge in old alleyways, perfect for capturing stunning photos.
Food Tips
· The hotel restaurant's afternoon tea set is exquisite and picture-perfect.
· Shiqipu Noodle Restaurant (the owner's Shanghainese is a living signboard).
· Deda Western Restaurant and Gongdelin Noodle Restaurant, each with its own charm.
· Donghai Small Restaurant (authentic Ningbo cuisine).
· Chongming cuisine on the second floor of the hotel, authentic local flavors.
· International Hotel butterfly pastries, remember to choose the sweet ones.
Though the day was short, the essence of Shanghai will give her much to savor. When she returns next time, we'll continue our journey.From£114
Very Good2627 Reviews
Huaihai Road Area Shanghai|0.96km from city centre
My stay was excellent; the hotel was well-organized and efficient overall. The front desk staff were professional and friendly, communication was smooth, and check-in was handled efficiently. The room cleaning was professional, facilities were well-maintained, hot water was consistent, and the bedding was comfortable. The hotel's location is convenient, making travel and sightseeing very easy. The breakfast quality was great, with fresh and authentic Chinese dishes, pastries, and dairy products. Overall, my trip and stay were secure and comfortable. I would definitely choose this hotel again next time and highly recommend it!
In particular, the room was clean and tidy, offering a comfortable and quiet stay. The front desk service was professional and thoughtful, and getting around the area was convenient. Breakfast featured Chinese cuisine and French specialties, making for a great travel experience. Highly recommended.From£40
Outstanding6037 Reviews
Jing'an District Shanghai|3.58km from city centre
I initially booked a 'Quiet King Room,' but it turned out to have no windows, so I upgraded to one with a window. However, the room was exceptionally small and a bit dusty. After one night, I couldn't stand it anymore and upgraded to an Executive King Room. But there was a persistent sewer smell from the drains that even pouring mineral water down couldn't cover up – both in the toilet and under the sink, the smell lingered. I had no choice but to keep the air conditioning on constantly. The location is good, though; it's very close to the subway station, making it convenient to get to Jing'an Temple, Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street, and Yu Garden.From£57
✈️ Massage at Shanghai Pudong Airport (PVG)
If you have a layover at the airport, you don't necessarily need to head into the city centre to treat yourself to a relaxing break. A massage at Shanghai Pudong Airport can be a convenient solution to recharge your batteries during a few hours' transit.
Dazhong Airport Hotel (between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2)
Airport lounges
Spa and massages outside the airport
Those with a long layover (at least 8-9 hours) who are able to leave the airport might consider treating themselves to a spa and massage experience in Shanghai at one of the large wellness centres located outside the airport.
💡 Top tip: before leaving the airport, it's always a good idea to factor in travel time, getting back through security, and any immigration procedures, especially if you have international connections.
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❓ FAQ – Massages in Shanghai
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