To start off:
YES that have WIFI…read moreYES they accept Credit Cards
YES they allow walk-in's (but reservations highly suggested.
I stumbled into I'M Onsen Spa on a Sunday afternoon, hoping to unwind with a reasonably priced massage and a dip in their Onsen. But of course, the universe had other plans. They were fully booked. So, after a few raised eyebrows and some typical Manila hustle, I was left with a couple of choices: 2-hour access to the Onsen, gym, or pool for 1,500 PHP, or a whole damn day of everything for 4,000 PHP. Decisions, decisions.
Now, let's be clear: For a city like Manila, this place is a godsend. I'm giving it 3 stars because, let's face it, Manila has a long way to go in the spa game. But in the context of this chaotic, buzzing city, I'd still give it 5 stars. The staff is friendly, the place is clean, and it does what it promises: relaxation in the heart of the madness.
Here's the kicker: the Onsen and spa are tucked into a little corner on the second floor. It's essentially open doors, and that's where things get a little... Manila. Picture this: you're soaking in a hot bath, the steam rising from your body, and instead of the serene hum of a quiet retreat, you're assaulted by the honking horns, the screeching motorcycles, and the random guy walking around yelling "Taho Taho!" That's the soundtrack to your Zen moment here. Add to that the thick, greasy smell of gasoline mixed with street food, and you're no longer in a Japanese mineral bath. You're in the middle of a bustling city, and it shows.
But hey, that's Manila for you, right? And still, I'll give them credit--those hot springs are crystal clear, odorless, and the temperature almost hits right. There are two baths: a smaller one that leans toward "hot" and a larger one that's more on the lukewarm side. If you've been to an Onsen before, you might feel a little cheated, but it's still a decent soak.
The saunas? Well, the dry sauna is a thing of rustic beauty with its curved wood, but don't look too closely. You'll start noticing a few blemishes, a bit of wear and tear. As for the heat, it's intense. I lasted about 45 seconds before I had to throw a bucket of mineral water over my head-- and please don't throw water over those electric heaters. Not coal. It's not the real deal.
And then there's the steam sauna. Imagine stepping into a boiling can of Vicks VapoRub. It's pungent. It's almost suffocating. But I'll be honest, it did wonders for my sinuses. If you're looking to clear your head or singe the hairs from your nose, it's the perfect torture.
Now, a word of warning: If you're used to a traditional Onsen experience, you might feel like you've wandered into a budget version of the real thing. There are no fancy lotions, no high-end shaving kits, none of the usual spa perks. This place is no-frills. So, if you're expecting luxury or authenticity, bring your own stuff, because you won't find it here.
In the end, if you've been to a real Onsen, this place might leave you disappointed. But if you're just looking for a solid spa experience with a touch of something different in the heart of Manila--somewhere between the chaos and the calm--this spot delivers. Just book a massage and get there early. And maybe, just maybe, bring earplugs.