Healing Touch
Photograph: Healing Touch / Instagram
Photograph: Healing Touch / Instagram

The best massage parlours in Singapore

Sit back and relax because it’s always the right time for some self-care

Cheryl Sekkappan
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If you’ve got achy joints, muscle pains or tension where it shouldn’t be, it’s time for a day of proper relaxation. Yes, it can get pricey if you’re splurging on high-end treatments at award-winning spas, but we’ve padded this list with lots of pocket-friendly gems as well.  Whether you’re into delicate and soothing facials paired with ambient lighting and aromatherapy, or you love a good deep tissue rub-down that leaves you sore but satisfied, we’ve got all the deets on how you can have the ultimate pampering sesh.

RECOMMENDED: The best spas in Singapore to pamper yourself with and the best brow and lash salons in Singapore

The best massage treatments in Singapore

  • Health and beauty
  • Kallang

You’re in for a treat at this spa which combines traditional Japanese Onsen therapies with Thai spa treatments. Before your earth-shattering rub down, you’ll get to bask in six mineral-rich baths, from 40-degree hot baths to silky, micro-bubble waters, meant to detoxify and relax the body. The spa is particularly known for its Japanese hospitality and exceptional service, and the facility is entirely cashless through the use of key-fob wristbands, so set your mind at ease every step of the way.

Treatment to try

After getting your one-day pass at $45 (which grants you access to a set of yukata, towels, lounge access and more), you’ll want to soak in Yunomori’s signature bath filled with magnesium sulfate, which is known to improve the body’s natural detoxification process. Its waters are also infused with signature essential oils for the ultimate soak after a long day. Then go for the Office Syndrome Treatment at $168 for 90 minutes, where expert masseurs use trigger point pressure to target chronic muscle pains and bring the pep back into your step.

  • Health and beauty
  • Bishan

Founded by Joshua Lung in 2001, Healing Touch offers a diverse variety of facials and massages at highly affordable rates with a focus on holistic healing. Prices start from $43 for an invigorating sea salt body scrub and up to $100 for an hour-long Chi Nei Tsang massage, which focuses on deep abdominal manipulation to release ‘trapped energy’. 

Treatment to try

Its signature 4P Tension Relief Massage ($68 for one hour) fuses techniques from Swedish, Thai, deep tissue and acupuncture techniques to help loosen up your muscles and improve blood circulation.

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  • Health and beauty
  • Massage and reflexology
  • Tanglin

A sanctuary nestled amidst 15 acres of lush tropical greenery, CHI, The Spa at Shangri-La, with its luxurious yet down-to-earth setting, offers the perfect escape for guests to recharge and rejuvenate. Apart from boasting a team of highly skilled therapists, the spa also offers top-of-the-line amenities, signature teas to soothe tension and nerves, and complimentary nuts and dried fruits for guests.

Treatment to try

Available in every Chi, The Spa globally, the Signature Asian Blend Massage ($175 for 60 minutes) is a must-try. Combining the best of Asian massage techniques like Thai acupressure and stretching, Balinese and Malaysian deep strokes, Chinese Tui Na, Indian Ayurvedic and more, this treatment will leave you feeling invigorated, especially if you’ve got the dreaded jetlag or insomnia. Another notable treatment to try is the Healing Himalayan Hot Salt Stone Massage ($245 for 90 minutes), which uses heated natural salt stone crystals – considered to be the purest and most beneficial salt on earth and is said to be able to neutralise the ill effects of toxic frequencies we live with.

  • Health and beauty
  • Massage and reflexology
  • Harbourfront

As city dwellers, our lifestyles can be a little too hectic. A good night’s rest doesn’t always come easy, but Moomin’s dry head massage is just the boost we need on sluggish days. It’s the first spa in Singapore to specialise in deep sleep dry head massage, said to reduce brain fatigue through the meditation-like state you'll experience during the therapy. Moomin is a must-visit if you’re looking for a natural solution for insomnia, tension headaches, migraines, stress or simply to improve the quality of your sleep. There are currently two outlets: VivoCity and Funan Mall, and both offer the same treatment provided by highly skilled therapists. 

Treatment to try

There is only one treatment offered here: the Deep Sleep Head Massage, available in 30 minutes, 50 minutes and 65 minutes sessions, starting at $48. It’s done by applying light pressure around the scalp to enhance blood circulation. Aside from giving you an energy boost and helping with headaches, the therapy is also said to strengthen hair from the roots and improve skin tone, among other benefits. It’s suitable for children aged 12 years and above too.

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  • Health and beauty
  • Toa Payoh

Do good while you feel good by getting a much-needed massage from The Mobile Massage Team, an initiative by the Singapore Association for the Visually Handicapped. These visually impaired masseurs are well-trained according to the standards set by the Workforce Skills Qualifications, and they must pass exams before they can begin practising. You might see them toting footstools and other massage paraphernalia at external venues like schools, corporate offices, and nationally organised events, where they go mobile to provide relaxation to the masses.

Treatment to try

Visit their massage centre in Toa Payoh for some no-frills, no-oil, and acupuncture-based foot reflexology, full-body massages, and head and shoulder massages.

  • Health and beauty
  • Bukit Timah

You don’t have to fly to Japan to soak in an onsen. Ikeda Spa’s bathing experience is authentic enough to please even the most wizened red-faced macaque: it’s got black ceramic floor tiles, shower valves and stools and, of course, a hinokiburo – a tub made of Japanese cypress – imported straight from the motherland. But come for the spa, and stay for the menu of massages.

Treatment to try

Using only the highest grade plant oils, the Elemental Aromatherapy massage ($180) draws upon Eastern and Western massage techniques to help restore individual balance.

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  • Health and beauty
  • Spas
  • Orchard

Decadence is the name of the game at Remede’s first branch in Asia. The spa features a spacious lounge for a relaxed arrival experience, six treatment rooms and a signature couple suite with a private jacuzzi. Its Wet Lounge showcases facilities like a cedarwood Finnish sauna, a eucalyptus-scented steam room (perfect for clearing stuffy sinuses), as well as indoor and outdoor jacuzzi pools.

Treatment to try

You’ll want to start your journey with a 30-minute citrus body scrub where zesty citrus extracts are used to gently exfoliate your skin, followed by a 30-minute stomach, thigh or arm contour massage. Get the ultimate 'treat yourself' massage experience with the 90-minute relaxation massage experience ($280), where you’ll also get to pick a Scent Bar, which will then be blended with a nourishing oil for a true escape into serenity.

  • Health and beauty
  • Spas
  • Sentosa

The rainforest-inspired AWAY Spa at W Singapore oozes trendiness and elegance all at once. The massage rooms are bathed in a unique, soothing blue light, and each comes with its own private outdoor shower. It features high-end facilities such as a warm vitality pool in the decompression area (complete with a hydro back bench and jet features) There’s also a fun, experiential Aqua shower which has various water settings and light effects. Choose from treatments like customised massages, the luminous crystal facial, a bust-reviving therapy to lift, firm and tone, a cleansing and exfoliating facial for men, and even a tension-easing massage for sports buffs. Throughout your spa experience, you’ll be pampered with top-of-the-range Comfort Zone and Valmont products.

Treatment to try

Prices here are on the higher end, with a 45-minute glow body treatment beginning at $95. It includes a full body polishing and hydrating treatment to boost your natural glow. For an all-out self-care splurge, opt for the 2-hour-long relax and rejuvenate package at $335. It combines an essential recovery facial with a restorative massage, designed to relax and unwind your muscles while ensuring your skin’s needs are prioritised.

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  • Things to do
  • Tiong Bahru
Nimble/Knead
Nimble/Knead

Scrub off the harshness of modern day living with Nimble/Knead's body scrubs. Lime Luffa Buffer ($69 for 45 minutes) works against the harm done by pollution and UV rays with with lime’s Vitamin C, flavonoids and antiseptic quality. Meanwhile Lemongrassade ($69 for 45 minutes) works to tighten pores and invigorate tired skin. The décor: The facade and receiving area are decorated with cool industrial-looking containers, while inside is more traditional: a palette of browns and burgundies offset by Thai silk pillows and wall decals of flowers and birds.

Treatment to try

Spa-standards like Thai, Balinese, Swedish and foot massages, as well as the 90-minute Sculptor’s Handiwork that combines a stint under cold wrap with a firm massage to combat cellulite. Food-themed body scrubs and masks are also a feature with choices like Chocoholic ($69 for 45 min) and Green Tea Honey ($69 for 45 min).

  • Health and beauty
  • Massage and reflexology
  • Novena

Established in 2012, Han Dynasty Spa ranks high on the list of people seeking quality massages at pocket-friendly prices. Another draw is their long operating hours, which allows party goers, busy executives and parents to get a late night massage whenever they need one. The oriental-themed spa offers full-body massages, foot reflexology, body scrubs, and Traditional Chinese Medicine treatments like ba guan and gua sha therapies. The therapists are well-trained to knead away aches and tension in your body and even provide tips on how to enhance recovery post massage.

Treatment to try

The Oriental Body Massage ($65 for 60 minutes and $90 for 90 minutes), an oil-based treatment focusing on acupuncture points to loosen knots and strained muscles, is a great way to unwind after a long day. Hot tip: the spa also offers rotational, limited-time promotions like a special Tuesday promotion for ladies to enjoy a 90-minute body massage at $75. If you know a senior who is constantly complaining about achy joints, you'll be glad to know that those aged 60 and above can enjoy a 60-minute soothing body massage or foot reflexology for only $40.

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  • Health and beauty
  • Massage and reflexology
  • City Hall

When you're hustling it hard in the city, there's nothing like a relaxing spa session to wind down and soothe your worries. Located in Raffles City, The Thai Spa is the perfect place to escape to after work. Traditional therapy, ancient rituals and aromatherapy combine to bring you an authentic experience that will help revitalise and rejuvenate the body. 

With 36 branches in India, the outlet in Suntec City is the first international opening for The Thai Spa – with two more outlets set to open by year's end. Some highlights on the spa menu include the couple massage with a complimentary rose honey milk bath in a private jacuzzi ($198 for one hour) and traditional Thai-style massage ($79 per hour) to bust those muscle and joint aches. 

Some of its highly recommended therapy treatments include the peppermint body scrub, Thai reflexology, Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, Balinese massage, Lomi Lomi massage, body polishing and several slimming therapies. The Thai Spa also specialises in organic and herbal facials ($79) which include extraction and a Thai herbal face mask. 

On top of the stellar treatments, The Thai Spa goes beyond to provide customers an unforgettable experience. Ensuring the ultimate privacy, each therapy room comes with a private shower. If you want to pass on the bliss, purchase online gift vouchers of the spa sessions for your loved ones. 

Time Out Singapore in partnership with The Thai Spa. 

  • Health and beauty
  • Massage and reflexology
  • Raffles Place

If you can do without the frills, Green Apple Spa gets the job done without compromising quality. Sit back and relax in plush armchairs while enjoying in-house movie screenings as you get massaged. 

Treatment to try

Prices start from $56 for non-members for a 60-minute foot massage and $69 for an indulgent face and body combo.

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  • Health and beauty
  • Bishan

A spa that punches above the other heartland ones in its vicinity, Aramsa is a little hard to find as it’s located in the middle of sprawling Bishan Park – definitely schedule some extra time on the commute here. Aesthetics-wise, this spa in a garden is impressive – it features 17 elegantly designed treatment rooms, each with individual outdoor courtyards that boast their own outdoor showers or therapeutic hydrotherapy baths set against a jungle backdrop (you have to book a bath treatment to get to use it). 

Treatment to try

Try their organic and herb-based massages, exfoliations, wraps and facials, detox with their mineral mud body wraps or go for water therapy sessions with mineral garden baths or rainforest showers. The Signature Garden Packages features packages of three or four therapies conducted over 150 minutes to work dry and mature skin or restore the energy in sapped and stressed bodies.     

  • Health and beauty
  • Massage and reflexology
  • Raffles Place

Established in 2010, Aleyda is a leading mobile spa provider in Singapore, offering exceptional massage services in the comfort and convenience of your own home. Promising a no-frills experience, the appointed therapist will bring the entire set-up to your home, from ergonomic massage equipment, fresh linen, massage oils, music and more. Aleyda also provides office massage services and some of their longstanding corporate clients include Virgin Active, Disney, INSEAD, Ngee Ann Polytechnic, Tanjong Beach Club, and more. 

Treatment to try

For the ultimate indulgence, go for the Smooth & Soothe ($269 for 120 minutes), offering a relaxing organic coffee scrub followed by an indulgent 90-minute body massage with custom-blended aromatherapy oils. If you need a quick fix, there is the 90-minute back rub and foot reflexology, which will offer a much-needed boost during your lunch break, or the the perfect recharge at the end of a hectic work day. 

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  • Health and beauty
  • Massage and reflexology
  • Orchard

If your late-night shenanigans usually take place in the Orchard Road vicinity, consider concluding the revelry at Herbal Footcare – a 24/7 massage parlour that is easily the most affordable from this lot. With its interior décor kept to the bare minimum, Herbal Footcare is simple and fuss-free, where the only thing that grabs one’s attention is its massive neon-red couches to sink in during reflexology.

Treatment to try

Body pampering services are without the frills, ranging from foot reflexology ($28 for 30mins) and body massages ($38 for 30mins) to the traditional Chinese methods of ear candling, cupping and gua sha (skin scraping). Look out for promotions where you can get both a massage and reflexology for less than $60.

  • Health and beauty
  • Spas
  • Geylang

Want the hot spring experience in our city? Head to g.Spa where upon entering, you’re directed to either the men’s or women’s side and given a locker – swimming trunks, robes and towels are provided, so there’s no need to bring anything. The locker rooms have a hot pool and cold pool, sauna and showers. In the common areas, you can relax on comfy couches with personal TV screens. It’s well worth the basic $68 entry price in our books because there’s also an all-day all-you-can eat buffet, making it easy to spend a full day here watching the hours fly by.

Treatment to try

You must try the Gateway to Vitality body massage, which includes spa admission for $180. This deep-tissue massage concentrates on pressure points to banish blockages in the body’s energy flow and to flush out toxins from the lymphatic system. You can choose to use oil for a smoother, more relaxing treatment, or no oil for a more direct pressure-point massage.

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  • Health and beauty
  • Massage and reflexology
  • Raffles Place

Co-founded by Herman, a former personal trainer and Iqbal, a senior registered nurse with a decade’s experience, Muscle Lab specialises in sports massage therapy – with benefits like muscle recovery and injury prevention. Muscle Lab offers a wide range of services, from stretch therapy, cupping therapy, muscle rehab and more, helping athletes and fitness enthusiasts train better and recover faster. Their team consists of experienced, certified therapists and practitioners in holistic physical well-being so you can be assured that you are in good hands. 

Treatment to try

Regardless of whether you play sports, the Sports Massage Therapy is suitable for anyone who leads an active lifestyle as it offers a combination of soft tissue manipulation, trigger point massage, and assisted isolated stretching. Apart from loosening tight knots, this treatment will also help increase mobility and up sporting and exercise performance.

  • Things to do
  • Bedok

Experience authentic Javanese massage by highly skilled staff, who have been put through intensive training by Indonesian professionals. If a deep muscle massage is something you're looking for, the Javanese experience relies upon pressure pushing, pressing and circling along and around the body’s energy meridians to break down tensely knotted muscles and to stimulate the body’s lymphatic system into releasing its self-regenerative power and increase blood circulation. 

Treatment to try

The signature massage here is the traditional Javanese full body massage (from $75) which uses all parts of the hand, including the knuckles, to knead and massage the muscles.

Treat yourself!

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