Humidity, tight shoes, poor posture, exercise — there are a million reason why our feet are always throbbing. Next time you’re out pounding the pavement, sneak away for a cheeky foot massage in Hong Kong at one of these luxe spas and low-key parlors.
Halite
It might not be the most luxe spot in town, but the therapists at Halite will effectively stretch and knead your feet into submission. There are three centrally located outposts, making it popular for a quick lunchtime foot rub. For $159, the Chinese foot reflexology massage comes with a little extra pampering — a crystal salt foot scrub and a soothing foot bath. If you want to feel like you’re in a deep dark den, head to the subterranean spot in Sheung Wan.
Basement, 302 Queen’s Road Central, Sheung Wan, 2808-0028.
Tai Pan Reflexology Parlour
Popular spot Tai Pan may be on frenetic Nathan Road, but you’ll feel a million miles away while zenning out in this clean, calm oasis. The recently-renovated interiors evoke 1930s Shanghai glamour, specially in the chic barber-shop like foot spa. Slip into one of the lie-flat beds in the communal massage area, and enjoy a thoroughly rejuvenating rub-down. For a quick de-stress, book a no-frills 30-minute foot massage ($168). Looking for a little more? Choose the 50-minute foot massage and a 30-minute add on treatment of your choice – a head and shoulder massage ($406) or a face massage and mask ($466). Afterwards, enjoy a quiet pot of the tea-of-the-month in relaxation lounge before you face the world again. To note: if you manage to sneak in before 3pm on a weekday, you can take advantage of significant discounts!
Basement, 83 Nathan Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, 2301-1990.
Ten Feet Tall
Founded by Gilbert Yeung, owner of glitzy Dragon-I club, Ten Feet Tall is the epitome of an urban escape. The uber-luxe two-story day spa comes decked out in upscale California beach décor and offers a wealth of treatments — think reflexology, lymphatic drainage and Shanghai pedicures. Plus, there are extras close at hand, such as a juice bar and weekday discounts.
20-21/F, 139 Queen’s Road Central, 2971-1010.
Gao’s
An LKF favorite with another branch on Caine Road, Gao’s is a traditional-style massage parlor offering straight-forward, effective rub-downs. Reflexology treatments come with heating pads to soothe tired shoulder muscles and rose red tea to keep you hydrated. Duck in whenever you find some time — they’re open daily 10am to midnight — and perhaps go the whole hog with one of the enticing body massages.
17/F, 1 Wellington Street, Central, 2810-9219.
Sense of Touch
A cult favorite, Sense of Touch is an exquisite full-service day spa with six locations throughout Hong Kong — though we’re partial to the serene Repulse Bay address. Duck in to enjoy a thoroughly relaxing foot massage amidst sleek interiors best described as a mash-up of Moroccan charm and luxe Paris chic. Can’t get enough? They also offer scrubs, wraps, facials and manicures.
109 Repulse Bay Road, Repulse Bay, 2592-9668.
Happy Foot
A humble Happy Valley success story, Happy Foot now has four outlets across Hong Kong Island. Expect a cozy environment with comfortable armchairs and expert therapists working their magic on your hooves with massages from $198. You might even be able to duck in after a night out — they’re open until 2am.
13 Sing Woo Road, Happy Valley, 2524-2323.
Iyara
A stalwart face on Cochrane Street, Iyara takes a Thai approach to pampering with several types of massages on offer, including reflexology foot treatments to ease those street-wary feet. If you like what you see from your view on the escalator but don’t want to feel like you’re relaxing inside a fishbowl, keep heading up to Prince’s Terrace where a smaller, more secluded branch awaits.
Big Bucket
Another neighborhood joint, Big Bucket is a fuss-free spot tucked away amidst the heaving streets of Causeway Bay. As the name suggests, your reflexology treatment (from$178) starts with a dip into an oversized wooden bucket of steaming water — scented with your choice of soaps (think rose or milk). Feeling brave? Tack on one of the traditional treatments on offer — think cupping, ear candling and Shanghai pedicures.
264-269 Gloucester Road, Causeway Bay, 2572-8611.
Vida Spa
A tiny haven squeezed into a small building on Hollywood Road, stepping into Vida Spa is like entering a friend’s apartment — if that friend had a lineup of expert masseuses in her living room, of course. Get cozy in one of the plush armchairs and enjoy the serene ambiance as a professional therapist soaks your feet then gets to work.
4/F, 29 Hollywood Road, Central, 2889-1090.
Zenjoy
It may not be as swanky as other pampering retreats, but Zenjoy is a thoroughly reliable massage studio combining professional service, reasonable prices, and a choice location near the Wan Chai MTR on Johnston Road. The neighborhood spot is clean, tidy, and divided into two areas — one’s specifically for women only. Book in for a foot reflexology treatment ($195 for 60 minutes) and a well-trained therapists will work every sore spot until you’re walking on air.
151-155 Johnston Road, Wan Chai, 3487-0330.
Hong Wai
Long-time local go-to Hong Wai is a stronghold of back-to-basics pampering in the middle of TST. Expect a cheap-and-cheerful experience with superior international products, and more than 130 highly trained staff — the best therapists are dubbed “masters” and will iron out problem areas by targeting pressure points. A number of traditional Chinese treatments are available, but the 45-minute foot massage is pure heaven after a day hitting the shops — and a steal at $160.
7/F, 12 Canton Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, 2736-1008.
[Updated Oct 2018]
