Below is a personal list of SPA recommendations in Shanghai. I've tried all of them, each of them more than once.
To relax and wind down in Shanghai may seem impossible, but thankfully the city has abundant day spas, providing services such as body scrubs, massage and other relaxing treatments. I have narrowed down the list and here is our version of the five best spas in Shanghai.
1. Greenmassage
Greenmassage is one of the earliest high-end Spas in Shanghai. It provides both Chinese and western massages. If you have traditional Chinese massage, the spa provides you clothes to wear. The SPA also provides shower rooms for people want to shower before and after. Great interior and absolute clean. Staff speak English too.
Both male masseurs and female masseuses available. You may request preferred therapist when you make an appointment.
Downside: Probably the most expensive Spa in Shanghai. On weekends, it can fully booked. So you will need to book in advance.
More info: http://www.greenmassage.com.cn
2. Dragonfly
Dragonfly is probably as high end as Greenmassage. And its branches are usually located in center-areas or shopping malls. So it's very convenient for travelers.
It provides both Chinese and western massages as well. The SPA has great interior and friendly staff, also English friendly.
However, my experience with Dragonfly varies. Some of them are poorly trained or newbies. Some of them are good at traditional Chinese massage, thus putting almost too much finger pressure when switching to Swedish oil massage.
Both male masseurs and female masseuses available. You may request preferred therapist when you make an appointment.
Downside: Therapist skills varies.
More info: http://www.dragonfly.net.cn/en/
3. Let's relax
The brand comes from Thailand. If you have been to Thailand, you must have heard about this brand. So if you are looking for an authentic Thai massage, this should be the one. All masseuses are from Thailand.
Only female masseuses available.
Downside: Female therapists only. Much more expensive than in Thailand.
More info: https://letsrelaxspa.com/china/
4. Royal Orchid Thai Massage
The SPA is specialized in Thai massage. Therapists from Thailand available too. But it also gives all kinds of massage packages. In Jinxian Rd branch, there is a steam room as well.
Both male masseurs and female masseuses available. You may request preferred therapist when you make an appointment.
Downside: Expensive.
More info: http://www.orchidmassage.cn/pcweb-en/index.html
5. Subconsciousdayspa
The Spa has a warm interior design with wood. Modern and clean. Therapists are well-trained. In addition to massages, it provides other beauty services, facial, nail, waxing for female customers.
Both male masseurs and female masseuses available. You may request preferred therapist when you make an appointment.
Downside: Only two locations available in the city center.
More info: http://www.subconsciousdayspa.com/
All in all, these 5 Spas are clean and legit, English friendly with relatively stable massage skills. These are the safe choices if you are tourists in Shanghai.
However, for massage lovers, I don't find any of these Spas exceeding the standard. Almost every therapist is following a standard procedure and lacking of attention to individual body and mind. It's a pity.
Comment about your Spa experience in Shanghai. Or let me know if you have any questions.