Shanghai is known for its fast-paced lifestyle and vibrant energy. The Serenity Ways community living there finds it exhilarating, but also exhausting. Sometimes, you need to step away from the chaos and immerse yourself in a sanctuary of tranquility and rejuvenation.
Here are the top addresses where to seek well-being for a few days or more when you live in Shanghai. As always with our curated guides, there are the best wellness destinations within easy reach from Shanghai, and each of them offers unique experiences tailored to your needs, be it recharging your batteries, fitness, aesthetics, longevity, or something more spiritual.
Chiva-Som (Hua Hin, Thailand): maybe the Ultimate Holistic Wellness Experience
Best for:
Comprehensive wellness programs and luxury spa treatments
Nestled along the pristine coastline of Hua Hin, Chiva-Som is a world-renowned wellness retreat that has been setting the standard for holistic health since 1995. This award-winning destination combines ancient healing traditions with modern science to create personalized wellness programs that cater to your physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.
What to Expect:
- Tailored Programs: From weight management and stress reduction to fitness and detox, Chiva-Som offers over 200 treatments and therapies.
- Luxurious Spa Treatments: Indulge in traditional Thai massages, hydrotherapy, and cutting-edge beauty treatments.
- Holistic Approach: Yoga, meditation, and mindfulness sessions are integrated into daily routines to promote inner peace.
- Gourmet Wellness Cuisine: Enjoy nutrient-rich, delicious meals designed to nourish your body and soul.
Why It’s Perfect for You:
If you’re looking for a transformative experience that addresses every aspect of your well-being, Chiva-Som is the ideal destination. Its serene beachfront location and world-class facilities make it a haven for those seeking a complete reset.
Kamalaya (Koh Samui, Thailand): a Spiritual Sanctuary
Best for:
Spiritual seekers and emotional healing
Kamalaya, located on the tranquil island of Koh Samui, is a sanctuary for those seeking to reconnect with their inner selves. Founded by a former monk and his wife, this retreat is deeply rooted in Buddhist traditions and offers a harmonious blend of Eastern and Western healing practices.
What to Expect:
- Emotional Balance: Programs focus on stress and burnout recovery, emotional resilience, and spiritual growth.
- Holistic Therapies: Ayurveda, Traditional Chinese Medicine, and naturopathy are combined with modern wellness techniques.
- Sacred Spaces: The retreat is built around a ancient monk’s cave, creating a deeply spiritual atmosphere.
- Detox and Cleanse: Choose from a range of detox programs, including juice cleanses and holistic detox therapies.
Why It’s Perfect for You:
If you’re feeling emotionally drained or spiritually disconnected, Kamalaya offers a nurturing environment to heal and rediscover your purpose. Its focus on mindfulness and spiritual practices makes it a unique retreat for inner exploration.
Ananda in the Himalayas (India) – Palatial Wellness meets advanced Ayurvedic Cures
Best for:
Luxury seekers and yoga enthusiasts
Perched in the foothills of the Himalayas, Ananda is a luxurious wellness retreat that combines the grandeur of a palace with the serenity of its natural surroundings. Once the residence of a Maharaja, this retreat offers a regal experience infused with ancient Indian wellness traditions.
What to Expect:
- Yoga and Meditation: Daily yoga sessions and guided meditation practices are led by expert instructors.
- Ayurvedic Treatments: Experience personalized Ayurvedic therapies designed to restore balance and vitality.
- Adventure and Relaxation: Immerse yourself in the incredible energies of the Himalayan foothills and nearby Rishikesh, and unwind with a dip in the heated outdoor pool.
- Gourmet Ayurvedic Cuisine: Savor meals crafted to align with your dosha (body type) and wellness goals.
Why It’s Perfect for You:
If you’re looking for a luxurious escape that immerses you in the ancient wisdom of India, Ananda is the place to be. Its majestic setting and focus on yoga and Ayurveda make it a haven for those seeking both relaxation and cultural enrichment.
Six Senses Kyoto (Japan) – Zen and Modernity Combined
Best for:
Urbanites seeking a tranquil escape
Located in the cultural heart of Kyoto, Six Senses offers a unique blend of traditional Japanese wellness practices and modern luxury. This urban retreat is perfect for those who want to experience the tranquility of a wellness sanctuary without venturing too far from the city.
What to Expect:
- Japanese Healing Arts: Enjoy shiatsu massages, acupuncture, and herbal remedies rooted in Japanese traditions.
- Zen Gardens: Stroll through serene Zen gardens and participate in tea ceremonies to cultivate mindfulness.
- Holistic Wellness Programs: Choose from programs focused on sleep, detox, or fitness, all tailored to your needs.
- Sustainable Luxury: Six Senses is committed to sustainability, ensuring your stay is both indulgent and eco-friendly.
Why It’s Perfect for You:
If you’re a city dweller craving a peaceful retreat that’s easily accessible, Six Senses Kyoto offers the perfect balance of urban convenience and Zen-inspired relaxation.
Chi Longevity at Four Seasons Singapore – Longevity Science at its Best
Best for:
Cutting-edge anti-aging diagnostics and treatments
For those seeking a wellness experience grounded in science, Chi Longevity at the Four Seasons Singapore is a game-changer. Founded by renowned longevity expert Dr. Chi, this retreat focuses on optimizing health and reversing the effects of aging through evidence-based practices.
What to Expect:
- Personalized Health Assessments: Comprehensive diagnostics, including genetic testing and biomarker analysis, inform your wellness plan.
- Anti-Aging Therapies: From IV nutrient therapy to cryotherapy, Chi Longevity offers advanced treatments to rejuvenate your body.
- Fitness and Nutrition: Tailored fitness programs and personalized meal plans ensure optimal results.
- Luxurious Setting: Enjoy the impeccable service and amenities of the Four Seasons Singapore while focusing on your health.
Why It’s Perfect for You:
If you’re passionate about longevity and want to take a proactive approach to your health, Chi Longevity provides the tools and expertise to help you feel your best at any age.
Como Shambhala Estate (Bali, Indonesia) – Nature’s Healing Power
Best for:
Nature lovers and holistic wellness seekers*
Set amidst the lush jungles of Bali, Como Shambhala Estate is a wellness retreat that harnesses the healing power of nature. This eco-luxury retreat offers a holistic approach to wellness, combining ancient healing traditions with modern therapies.
What to Expect:
- Immersion in Nature: Stay in luxurious villas surrounded by tropical forests and the Ayung River.
- Holistic Therapies: Choose from Ayurveda, acupuncture, and hydrotherapy, among other treatments.
- Adventure and Relaxation: Explore Bali’s natural beauty with guided hikes, or unwind with yoga and meditation.
- Healthy Gourmet Cuisine: Enjoy organic, plant-based meals that are as delicious as they are nutritious.
Why It’s Perfect for You:
If you’re craving a deep connection with nature and a holistic approach to wellness, Como Shambhala Estate offers a transformative experience in one of the world’s most beautiful settings.
Amanemu (Ise-Shima, Japan) – Minimalist Luxury
Best for:
Minimalists and hot spring enthusiasts
Amanemu, located in the serene Ise-Shima National Park, is a minimalist retreat that celebrates the healing properties of Japan’s natural hot springs. This tranquil haven is perfect for those seeking simplicity and relaxation.
What to Expect:
- Onsen Baths: Soak in the therapeutic waters of the retreat’s private hot springs.
- Japanese Cuisine: Savor kaiseki meals made with fresh, local ingredients.
- Mindfulness Practices: Participate in meditation and yoga sessions to cultivate inner peace.
- Scenic Beauty: Enjoy breathtaking views of the park’s lush landscapes and pristine coastline.
Why It’s Perfect for You:
If you’re drawn to minimalist design and the healing power of nature, Amanemu offers a serene escape that rejuvenates both body and mind.
Whether you’re seeking a spiritual awakening, a luxurious spa experience, or a science-backed approach to longevity, these world-class wellness retreats offer something for every kind of wellness seeker. Just a short flight from Shanghai, these destinations provide the perfect opportunity to recharge, reflect, and return to your daily life feeling refreshed and inspired.
So pack your bags, leave the hustle and bustle behind, and embark on a journey to wellness that will leave you feeling renewed from the inside out. Our wellness experts remain at your disposal to find the best program for your needs. And when you book with Serenity Ways, you enjoy exclusive amenities: room upgrade, spa credit, early check-in / late check-out ... Contact us to find out more and to discuss your project.
