In Metro Manila’s busy daily grind, where long commutes and packed schedules often leave little room for rest, taking care of yourself can easily fall by the wayside. Destination spas have grown in popularity as places to relax and recharge. Inspired by cultural traditions such as Korean jjimjilbangs, Japanese onsens, and Chinese bathhouses, these spas offer a mix of healing practices and modern comfort. Emgrand Spa in Parañaque adds its own approach to this trend, offering a full-body reset without having to leave the city.

Whether it’s the tightness from sitting at a desk or the weariness from daily tasks, a massage can target specific areas and provide a much-needed break. Emgrand Spa goes beyond simple spa services by creating an experience that touches on overall well-being. For those needing a pause from city life, this spa offers not just relief but a chance to refresh.

Finally, I had the chance to visit and try Emgrand Spa myself. Upon arrival, I was welcomed by friendly staff who immediately guided me through the process of the day. First, I was given a numbered wristband during check-in, followed by slippers to wear for hygiene and comfort. The spa takes cleanliness and hospitality seriously. They then showed me the locker area, which was spacious and well-maintained, perfect for securing personal belongings.

Checking In and Getting Ready

Next, I was guided to the shower area to wash up before exploring the facilities. The showers were stocked with shampoo, soap, lotions, shaving kits, hairstyling products, and even oral hygiene supplies like toothbrushes and toothpaste. After freshening up, guests are provided large towels and directed to the wet area on the third floor.

The wet area features a wet sauna, two large heated pools, and a small cold pool, ideal for soothing tired muscles. Phones are not allowed here, so guests leave their belongings in the lockers. It’s important to note that swimsuits or underwear aren’t permitted inside the wet area; guests wear only the towel provided. You must wash your body before entering the pools or sauna. While it may feel awkward to be naked among others at first, it quickly became comfortable — people here are focused on relaxing, not on others.

Throughout the wet area, there are drinking stations and cold towels available to help avoid dehydration. I also noticed that guests can order fresh fruits and cold drinks, which are delivered right to the poolside — I saw others enjoying this service, though I didn’t try it myself. Every time I returned to the locker area from the wet area, the staff thoughtfully dried my feet with fresh clean towels. This level of attention definitely sets Emgrand apart.

Rest, Recharge, and Explore

After relaxing in the wet area, you’re given a clean set of spa clothes so you can comfortably explore the rest of the facilities.

The sixth floor offers plenty of options for resting and entertainment. One popular spot is the “Pigeon Nest,” a cozy area with tablets and a great view, often featured on social media. This floor also houses a cinema, arcade, billiards, golf simulators, and even a beauty salon. There’s a small book library, with a few books in English but most of the selection in Chinese. Resting rooms are available throughout, and there are also high- and medium-temperature rooms that resemble dry saunas.

Unlike traditional jjimjilbangs that often use semi-precious stones or Himalayan salt walls, the dry sauna at Emgrand Spa on the fifth floor takes a more modern, minimalist approach. Still, there is a solid block inside the sauna that looks like jade, placed where guests can rest their heads. A wooden headrest is also available as an alternative for comfort. While it’s unclear if the jade block is genuine, its inclusion likely nods to Chinese wellness traditions, where jade is believed to aid relaxation, improve blood circulation, and ease muscle pain.

It’s important to distinguish that the sauna on the third floor is wet, while the fifth-floor sauna is dry, complementing the massage and spa treatments offered there.

Massage Services at Emgrand

Speaking of massages, the sixth floor offers basic treatments like foot pinching, shoulder pinching, head and back pressing, leg pressing, scraping therapy, and ear caicai. For full massage experiences, you’ll head to the fifth floor, where services like the Emperor’s Fragrant Foot Bath, Imperial Chinese Meridians, Pattaya Spa, and Aromatherapy Detoxification Spa are available.

Prices for full massages range from ₱1,588 to ₱2,588, while basic massages start at ₱888. Tips for local therapists typically start at ₱200. Massages are optional and not included in the spa package.

During my visit, I tried the back-pressing massage. It was my first time experiencing a massage on a recliner rather than a bed. I usually prefer massages with oil, but this dry massage surprised me — the therapist applied the right pressure, and I found it quite relaxing. The staff also mentioned that private rooms are available for full-body massages, which I hope to try on my next visit.

A Delicious Buffet Experience

Upon entry, you will be greeted by a supermarket-like fruit section where fresh fruits are sliced and served to you. There’s also ice cream available to enjoy. The buffet features a wide variety of mostly Chinese dishes, with some Japanese and other cuisines mixed in. We especially liked the fresh salmon in the Japanese section, which was truly fresh and flavorful.

Live seafood is also offered on top of your buffet fee if you want something cooked. You’ll find crab, roast duck, shrimp, and lobsters among others. The buffet includes dim sum, dumplings, stir-fries, sushi, seafood, roasted meats, fruits, and desserts. They also have exotic dishes like frog legs and jellyfish. I tried the spicy frog legs and was pleasantly surprised that I liked them.

By far, this is one of the best buffets I’ve enjoyed at a spa. It rivals some of the high-end premium buffet restaurants around Metro Manila. Whether you’re indulging in the extensive buffet spread or ordering live seafood, the dining experience at Emgrand Spa adds an extra layer of enjoyment to your visit. If you’re a fan of Chinese cuisine, you’ll definitely find plenty to love here. The buffet alone is one good reason to go back to Emgrand very, very soon.

How to Get There, What It Costs, and When to Go

After dining, you can return to the sixth-floor lounges or pods for more rest. Since you have up to 12 hours to enjoy your stay, it’s a great chance to relax with friends, family, or partners. Of course, you can also go back to the wet area for another soak.

Starting June 1, Emgrand Spa’s entrance rates are set at ₱1,500 for adults and ₱899 for children within the height range of 80 cm to 119 cm. Children over 119 cm in height are required to purchase an adult ticket. Each ticket grants access for 12 hours, allowing guests ample time to enjoy the spa’s extensive facilities and amenities.

Emgrand Spa is located at Lot 3, Block 5, Bradco Avenue in Aseana City, Parañaque City, just a short walking distance from Parqal Mall. It is open 24 hours a day, providing the convenience of round-the-clock access. Guests can visit anytime without the need for reservations, as the spa welcomes walk-ins only.

When you’re ready to leave, return to the locker area for a quick shower or to freshen up before changing back into your clothes.

Final Thoughts

Emgrand Spa offers a thoughtful and relaxing experience for anyone needing a break from the busy city life. With its clean, comfortable facilities, variety of amenities, and attentive staff, it’s a place where you can unwind for hours and return feeling refreshed.

Follow Emgrand Spa on social media to keep up with their latest promos, new services, and exclusive offers. You can find them on Facebook, on Instagram, and on TikTok. Following their pages is a great way to keep up with new offerings and plan your next relaxing visit.

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