Where to Go This Jan: Winter Escape in Shanghai (24-Hour SPAs)

With temperatures in Shanghai expected to drop to near freezing next week, it's no surprise that everyone is looking for something indoors for fun. Recently there is much hype for 24-hour SPAs, especially popular among international travelers to Shanghai.

These 24-hour SPAs are not just about soaking in hot water. (Not natural hot spring unfortunately, just heated water) They all have unlimited fruits and drinks included, resting areas, movie rooms, gaming rooms, entertainment, and other amenities, where you can easily spend an entire day. If you're visiting Shanghai during cold weather, or if you live here and just want to escape winter without leaving the city, we tested many of them by ourselves and recommend four locations for you to consider, depending on what you're looking for.

1. 曲水兰亭 (Qu Shui Lan Ting)

It's the most expensive option on the city, with entry price reaching around RMB 1,000+ per person. But it fully commits to the idea of luxury. Where is your money spent? Their buffet.

The buffet is legendary - think unlimited lobster, king crabs, sashimi, and every premium item you can think of, constantly refilled. If you have a big appetite, this place quietly dares you to stay as long as possible. While you are digesting your last meal and preparing for the next, there are movie rooms, beautifully designed resting areas, and wellness facilities for you to choose from. This is not a quick visit. This is an all-day event.

2. Shui Guo (水裹 汤泉生活)

This spa is famous for one thing above all else: fruit. Lots of it. Tropical fruits, seasonal fruits, fruits you didn't expect to see in Shanghai in winter. 

And here's the important part: during winter, there's a short, limited window when they offer unlimited durian. If you're a durian lover, this alone is reason enough to come. Alongside durian, there's a wide variety of premium soft drinks, soaking pools, resting rooms, and other amenities that make it very easy to stay for hours. 

3. Young Space (漾 Space)

This location is right in the city center - near Lujiazui CBD. It's worth mentioning because most of the 24-hour SPAs are located far from the city center (at least 30-minute drive from the center). 

This spa feels more like a modern urban lounge with sleek interior design, catering for younger customers. You'll find gaming consoles, game rooms, pool tables, and plenty of deep sofas designed for doing absolutely nothing. Food and drinks are always available and included in the entry price, just like other SPAs.

4. Lin Lin Yu (霖林雨)

This final recommendation is designed for families with small kids. There is a very large indoor play areas for kids, and children can stay active while adults finally get a moment to slow down. Parents can soak, rest, or simply enjoy some quiet time knowing their kids are nearby and entertained. 

Another thing that makes this spa stand out is its outdoor hot spring - one of the few of its kind in the city. Here, you can soak your upper body in the crisp winter air while your lower body stays cozy in the warm water.