How We Rank Massage & Spa Venues
At Japan Spa Explorer, our goal is to help travelers find the most reliable, relaxing, and rewarding massage and spa experiences across Japan. Our ranking system is designed to be transparent, consistent, and user-focused. Here’s how we evaluate each venue:
1. Service Quality
We assess the overall professionalism, technique, and hospitality of the staff based on:
- Mystery visits by our team
- Verified user reviews
- Therapist experience & training background
2. Cleanliness & Atmosphere
Cleanliness is a key standard in Japanese hospitality. We consider:
- Cleanliness of massage rooms, bathrooms, and waiting areas
- Comfort, decor, and relaxing ambiance
3. English-Friendliness
Since many of our users are foreign travelers, we prioritize venues that:
- Offer English menus or communication
- Have English-speaking staff (even basic)
- Provide easy booking and explanation for first-time visitors
4. Price & Value
We compare the quality of service with the price point to determine:
- Overall value for money
- Hidden fees or extra charges
- Flexibility in service packages
5. Customer Reviews
We collect and analyze verified reviews across platforms such as:
- Google Maps
- TripAdvisor
- Direct submissions to our site
6. Location & Accessibility
We give higher scores to venues that are:
- Conveniently located near train stations or hotels
- Open during hours suitable for tourists
- Easy to find and book without confusion
7. Special Features
We highlight venues with:
- Unique Japanese treatments (e.g., Shiatsu, Onsen, Aromatherapy)
- Female-friendly or couples’ services
- Strong reputation or long operating history
Our Process
All rankings are curated through a mix of editorial review, anonymous visits, user submissions, and local research. We do not accept payments to manipulate rankings. Sponsored listings are clearly marked and do not affect the core ranking system.