Overview
This isn't a wellness spa or a show for tourists. You'll visit a working traditional Chinese medicine clinic in Shanghai — the kind locals actually go to — and receive a real consultation and treatment from a licensed TCM doctor who speaks English.
After you book, we'll match you with a clinic near your hotel based on your location, schedule, and health concern. Your session includes acupuncture and cupping, tailored to your condition after a proper TCM diagnosis (pulse reading, tongue examination, health history). If the doctor determines that neither acupuncture nor cupping is suitable for you, your treatment will be adjusted to a TCM therapeutic massage instead — no extra charge.
A WhatsApp concierge guides you from your hotel to the clinic and back. No guide tagging along — just quiet, on-demand support when you need it. Want someone in person? We can arrange an English-speaking guide or private car — just ask.
Highlights
- Consult with an English-speaking TCM doctor in a real Shanghai clinic
- Receive acupuncture and cupping tailored to your condition
- We match you to a clinic near your hotel based on your needs
- WhatsApp concierge guides you door-to-door
- TCM therapeutic massage if neither acupuncture nor cupping is suitable
- Optional herbal medicine prescribed on the spot
Itinerary
TCM Session
Before Your Visit
Once you book, tell us your hotel location, preferred time (morning or afternoon), and any health concerns. We'll match you with the best-fit clinic and doctor, then send you the exact address and directions via WhatsApp.
Arrival & Registration
Arrive at the clinic and check in at the front desk. Our WhatsApp concierge will have already sent you step-by-step directions from your location. Allow 10 minutes to complete a brief registration form.
Consultation
Sit down with your TCM doctor for a one-on-one consultation. They'll read your pulse, examine your tongue, and ask about your health history — the foundations of TCM diagnosis. Everything is explained in English. Based on their assessment, the doctor recommends a personalized treatment plan.
Treatment: Acupuncture & Cupping
The doctor places ultra-fine needles at precise points on your body. Most people feel minimal discomfort — many find it deeply relaxing. After the needles are removed, cupping follows: glass cups create suction on the skin to improve blood flow and release tight muscles. If neither acupuncture nor cupping is right for you, the doctor performs a TCM therapeutic massage instead.
Post-Treatment & Departure
The doctor shares aftercare advice — what to eat, what to avoid, how to get the most from your treatment. If herbal medicine is recommended, you can purchase it directly at the clinic and pay on site. Your WhatsApp concierge stays available until you're on your way.
What's Included
- Clinic registration fee
- TCM consultation with English-speaking doctor
- Acupuncture and cupping treatment
- WhatsApp online concierge (door-to-door guidance)
- TCM therapeutic massage (if neither acupuncture nor cupping is suitable)
What's Not Included
- Transportation to and from the clinic
- English-speaking on-site guide
- Additional treatments and herbal medicine not included in your session
- Gratuities (entirely at your discretion)
Good to Know
- Tell us what's bothering you: When booking, let us know your main concern so we can match you with the right specialist.
- Common conditions we treat: Back pain, neck and shoulder tension | Joint pain and sports injuries | Headaches and migraines | Insomnia and fatigue | Stress and anxiety | Digestive issues (bloating, IBS, acid reflux) | Menstrual issues and PMS | Allergies and sinus problems
- Note on cupping: Cupping works best for muscle and joint pain. For conditions like insomnia, stress, or menstrual issues, your doctor will likely focus on acupuncture without cupping. Cupping is not performed during menstruation or pregnancy.
- Note on treatment adjustments: Your session includes both acupuncture and cupping. If the doctor determines that only one of the two is suitable for you, the session will proceed with the suitable treatment and no refund will be issued. If neither is suitable, your session will be adjusted to a TCM therapeutic massage at no extra charge.
- Health precautions: This experience is not suitable if you are pregnant, have hemophilia or a bleeding disorder, are taking blood thinners, or have active skin infections on the treatment area. Consult your doctor before booking if you have any concerns.
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing — you'll need to expose certain areas for treatment. A T-shirt and relaxed-fit pants work well.
- Arrive at least 10 minutes early to complete registration.
- Herbal medicine: If prescribed, pay on site at the clinic. Most Shanghai TCM clinics accept Alipay, WeChat Pay, and cash only — credit cards are rarely accepted.
- Bringing herbs home: Check your home country's customs regulations. Raw herbs and animal-based ingredients may be confiscated at borders in some countries (US, Australia, New Zealand). Processed pills, patches, and ointments are generally easier to bring through.
- Your WhatsApp concierge is available from 1 hour before your appointment until you've completed your visit.
- Need an English-speaking guide in person or private car service? Contact us for a quote.