Urban Refuge

I HIGHLY recommend Zen Massage. Besides the convenience of only being a couple blocks from where I…read morelive, the facility is very comfortable and cozy and my massage today was extraordinary! I'm a physical mess between my job and some old injuries and was over due for some deep tissue work. My masseuse was amazing, kicked my butt just enough to get in and do the work while providing a very well balanced massage. Thank you guys so much, see you very soon!

The facility is incredibly clean and super cozy. The staff is super communicative, and they have an…read moreentire intake process where they ask what areas you'd like to focus the massage on and where they shouldn't touch and how hard you like your massages, which I appreciated. The prices are amazing for how clean, professional, and knowledgeable the staff is. I came in for a 90 minute deep tissue massage, and they got me in the same day. Nicole was excellent, she absolutely tore up my shoulders just how I wanted her to because of a kink in my shoulder after flying. She asked if the pressure was good and even incorporated some meditation ("breathe in, breathe out"). I've already recommended this place to three other people, and I'm excited to go back!

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Thai massage

Top Therapy Massage

4.1(125 reviews)

0.3 mi•Chinatown

Joe is absolutely amazing, that was a REAL massage, 10/10 guys try him out…read more The techniques are so on point, and he knows where to put pressure!

A true hidden gem in San Francisco! After two weeks of walking all over the city and working a…read moremajor conference, my feet, legs, and shoulders were incredibly tight and sore. I booked the combo massage, and my masseuse was amazing! they worked out every knot and painful spot in my feet and legs, incorporated stretching, and spent time on my shoulders to release even more tension. My only regret is that I didn't book the 90-minute massage! I would absolutely recommend this place and will definitely be back the next time I'm in San Francisco.

0.8 mi•North Beach/Telegraph Hill

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The Enlivened Body

5.0(4 reviews)

I've never felt my body release so much in one session of massage. From the deep yoga breaths to…read morethe release of shoulder pain i felt so calm and comfortable the entire time. By far the most calming and intuitive massage I've received and I get a massage every three weeks. Thank you Diana.

Diana is an amazing bodyworker and intuitive healer. She really tunes in to your needs and can…read moresense what your body is saying. I've seen her for back and neck issues, and I always come out feeling physically and energetically balanced. She address both the mind and body, and also provides great advice on how to take care of yourself. Whether you're looking for physical relief or deeper spiritual work, I cannot recommend her enough.

The Hive Thai Massage & Wellness

4.8(176 reviews)

1.4 mi•Marina/Cow Hollow

Certified professionals

Eco-friendly

My friend gave me a gift certificate to The Hive. After waking up with a stiff neck and shoulders…read moreI decided to book a session. The Hive is a clean, peaceful sanctuary. My therapist was excellent. And my problem areas thanked me for this treat!

My hubby Eric and I went there today for a 90 min couple massage at 2pm. As you walk in it was…read morequiet and serene with their music background. The place was very well kept and had beautiful decorations. Loved the waiting chair. We sat there for a little bit and then were greeted. We were brought in a couples massage room. The music and atmosphere in the room was calming. The room smelled like peppermint or eucalyptus. Our masseuse was Mena and Au and they were amazing!!! They helped relieved all the knots on our shoulder blades, legs and neck. It was a full body massage. It was intense but in a good way. We left the place feeling relax and loose. This was one of the best massages we ever had. If you're needing a full body or just a massage, this is the place to be. Thank you Mena and Au for taking care of me and my hubby. We will be back.

1.2 mi•Pacific Heights, Marina/Cow Hollow

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Atlas Massage Center

4.7(180 reviews)

Atlas Massage is a really good spot. Been there twice. I have had massages with Camila and Phoebe…read moreand both are excellent. Looks like a very well run facility. Highly recommend.

Leslie is the alpha and the omega!! She's been helping me function for years!! Amazing body…read moreworker!! Do I need to say more?!

Marie

Deep healing massage

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Serious bodywork

Buddha Bliss Bodywork & Wellness

4.7(427 reviews)

0.9 mi•Lower Nob Hill

Certified professionals

On-time commitment

I had a one hour neck and shoulder massage for those who work on computers done by the amazing…read moreYannis. I went to him several months ago at a different location and was impressed then. So I was pleasantly surprised to see him at the new location cause I wasn't expecting to get him again.. I was having some major pain in my upper back shoulder area and it had gotten so bad that the pain was cascading down my arm. Yannis really untied the knots in my shoulder, and the kinks out of my back. within five or six hours after the massage, i was feeling almost 80% better than I was when I first came in. Highly recommended, and I will definitely be back in the next time. I'm in the bay area and need a touchup.

From the moment you walk through the door, Buddha Bliss Massage offers such a serene, cozy, and…read morerelaxing vibe. The staff is so hospitable and welcoming! My experience with Cho was hands-down one of the best massages I've ever had. She has incredible strength, but what really sets her apart is how mindful and thoughtful she is. She regularly checked in on pressure and worked magic on my neck and lower back, working out kinks I didn't even realize were holding so much stress. She even guided me to remember to deep breathe during the session, which helped me release so much built-up tightness. Cho is a miracle worker in a truly beautiful space. 10/10 recommendation!

0.1 mi•Financial District

Couple Massage room

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Relax with Joy

5.0(13 reviews)

I wish I could give Joy 10 stars because she truly deserves it. I've been a loyal client of Joy for…read moreover two years now and I must say ditching the weekly $25 foot massages that I use to get and upgrading to Relax with Joy has been one of the best decisions I've made in life and I know my body thanks me for it too. Joy knows how to untangle the build up knots brought by stress and aching tightness of an aging body. But after a 90 minute session, I always feel so BRAND NEW and refreshed. Unlike the rough and sloppy massages that you get elsewhere, Joy treats your body with proper care and touch. She knows your pressure points and how to release the bad toxins that weighs you down. I love how she understands why and how you got the soreness and pain and will actually suggest what to do about it. Whether I need to drink more water, stop sitting awkwardly on my work desk, or use my dry brush to relax my muscles; it truly shows that Joy cares not just about your visit but how you take care of your wellness after. I've had the pleasure of having Joy's service at home and at her studio. The in-house visit was great during the height of the pandemic, but visiting her studio was even better. I was a little hesitant at first to do a session outside my home, but after visiting Joy's studio I felt more at ease. Her studio was very well maintained and gives that great positive vibe the moment you enter; from the soothing aroma, the perfect warm temperature, calming music, and that inviting massage bed. I love that the studio also abides by COVID protocols and Joy even provides you with a nice comfortable mask that you can wear while you get your massage. Joy is very in demand these days so I highly suggest you purchase a membership card or schedule your appointments way in advance. I try to make mines a month in advance and despite her busy schedule, Joy will find some time to accommodate you. Our health and well-being is probably the most important investment we can make and you are making a good investment by scheduling some time to Relax with Joy! So what are you waiting for?! Treat yo Self! you deserve it! :)

Joy feels and listens to what my body is saying (there were many times that it's screaming hahaha)…read more I've incorporated some healthy habits that she suggested, like daily body and face dry brushing, drinking lots of water. I purchased a membership and it's all worth it! I highly recommend Joy to my friends and family

1.1 mi•Russian Hill, Fisherman's Wharf

Are you looking for a California Certified Massage Therapist?

Ready for my massage

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A healing white rose

Royal Thai Spa

4.5(598 reviews)

I came here for Mothers Day , got a massage from Sumi , & it was wonderful ! The tension in my back…read morewas released by a pleasantly unexpected stepping on my back method I didn't know I was getting . Sumi was professional & was great w/ communication during the service . Whether if it was pressure , specific area to focus on , temperature of the hot stones used .. she gave a great experience . Also , SHES REALLY SWEET ! It was a good vibe of having little conversation & quiet time to just relax & enjoy . I really appreciated the friendliness & also the peace given . Now my fav fav part . ( infa-red sauna ) I'm an advocate for the health benis of a good sauna .. let alone an infa-red one ! Is a MUST add on if you can . I took my massage first , then sauna to relax after to help w/ the detox & then took the shower afterwards to freshen up . Was given plenty of water . & I honestly didn't pay attention to parking for this review .. I got passenger princess treatment . I did see some street parks though !

This place is clean, organized and HONEST!! I booked online while out and about & they called to…read moreconfirm. When I got there they were flexible with what I wanted and what they thought would be best. I had Jenny who worked out my knots and adjusted when necessary. But this is where I can't say enough good things. I took my wedding rings off and one accidentally fell into the trash and I didn't see it happen! I realized after I walked back to the hotel one of them was missing. I WAS FRANTIC! I ran back and asked them to please look. Jenny found it in the trash. I was so relieved for her HONESTY and INTEGRITY. I hugged that woman, thanked her profusely and tipped her with more cash. That was such a close call and I am grateful for Jenny & nice reception staff who took me seriously. The emotional intensity was real. Thank you Jenny!

0.8 mi•Union Square, Lower Nob Hill

Last minute massage appt with Annie

Entrance

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Prices

Siam Orchid Traditional Thai Massage

4.9(809 reviews)

5 years in business

Walk-ins welcome

Very relaxing, one of the best massages I've ever had! Strongly recommend. I got the Swedish…read moremassage and they incorporated some other styles in that were really soothing.

Excellent Service with Nadia. She did a really good job for my knots and my lower back pain got…read morebetter right away.Definitely be back would recommend to try other services as well. The receptionist up front was so helpful and nice

0.2 mi•Financial District

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Frenchy Spa

4.9(37 reviews)

This place is kinda difficult to find, because the GPS led me down a side street. The entrance is…read moreon Montgomery St. But it's an office-type setting with lots of other businesses like hair salons, etc. But it's upstairs and it's just the massage room. Simon is great and very strong. My body was hurting and he went in full force because he knew what my body needed. He's very nice and personable. He's from France, and we had a lovely discussion about Tahiti. He's a master as his craft.

Unbelievable massage experience. I'm still in shock. I was only looking for a regular prenatal…read moremassage today and instead I got a whole body workout, realignment, drainage, years of stress and tightness washed away. My pregnancy has been very difficult. With months of nausea, swelling, bloating and many many sleepless nights. For the first time in months, I felt my muscles relax and the body did not ache. Thank you so much Simon! The massage was painful because my body is so tight and under duress, but it was so so worth it. I'm still in shock. Can't wait to get a few more treatments in before giving birth. Hoping it would even make labor easier.

FrenchySpa by/Simon

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Naomi B.

15 years ago

I've been going for acupuncture treatments at Urban Refuge Acupuncture on a fairly regular basis every since I threw my neck out three times in the course of two months. I was in so much pain and could still hardly turn my head when a family member told me about Jennifer at Urban Refuge. I had never been for acupuncture but I was ready for the pain to stop and was willing to try anything. My experiences with Jennifer have been amazing. I don't think there is someone better suited to work in this field; Jennifer is knowledgeable, holistic in her approach, perceptive, she listens and she's accommodating. She can virtually sense when I walk through the door, whether my neck is feeling better or worse. It's been a long road but I've now reached a point, with Jennifer's help, where I feel my neck problems are behind me. Urban Refuge Acupuncture is also affordable so don't think alternative healing practices are only for the elite because Jennifer's life-changing treatments can fit within most people's budgets. read more

Shu K.

19 years ago

I go to Urban Refuge every two weeks to reward myself. I have been suffering from allergy related skin problems, and my overall health condition has been improved dramatically. Jennifer is always attentive; she patiently figures out the way to improve your health. Frankly, I was rather afraid of acupuncture needles, but her approach has been gentle, and I not only like acupuncture now, but also know its great benefits. I recommend Urban Refuge to everyone. read more

zoe b.

108

15 years ago

CURED!!!!!!

Urban Refuge - acupuncture - Updated November 2026

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LAC Health Center

4.7

(79 reviews)

I cannot recommend Nancy and her acupuncture clinic enough! I came in with painful, stuffy sinuses,…read morea headache at the front of my head, and neck discomfort. Nancy's knowledge and expertise were evident from the start. She placed needles in my legs and feet, which at first confused me--I didn't understand how that could help my sinuses--but I felt the effects immediately. I could breathe so much better! She also placed needles in my head, which alleviated about 60% of the pressure right away. By the next day, the improvement was up to 80%, and now, three days later, I have zero headache and no sinus issues at all. I am beyond grateful to Nancy for her care and skill. Although my insurance doesn't cover acupuncture, the rates are incredibly reasonable--comparable to what you'd pay for a massage at any spa. Plus, they were able to fit me in for a same-day appointment when I really needed relief. I will absolutely be returning to Nancy for other ailments. If you're considering acupuncture, this is the place to go!

LAC is my go to clinic for physical problems and discomfort! I have tried most of the services here…read moreand have nothing but great things to say about the professional services, ease of scheduling and pricing! I love how clean the rooms and beds are, and they always make getting in and out a breeze with no extra / unnecessary waiting time or paperwork Special shoutouts to Ping and Michelle. They gave the best massages and always check with you on the pressure and pain points to customize for you!

Kristen Taylor, LAC

(6 reviews)

Once upon a time I was needle-phobic, but acupuncture isn't like phlebotomy, you really can't feel…read morethe needles as they are SO fine. I had heard good things about acupuncture for pain management and had been suffering from painful plantar fasciitis in my left foot and had been hobbling around for over a week before looking at my insurance coverage to see that acupuncture is covered (partly, anyway). I'm not a big fan of ibuprofen or naproxen (I like to ruin my liver in other ways!), so made an appointment with Ms. Taylor. I liked that she has an advanced degree and that she spent time in China studying acupuncture and incorporates other healing modalities like acupressure. She took my details and then checked my coverage with the insurance company and let me know ahead of time what was and wasn't covered (so lovely!), then made an appointment for the next day. The office (Jang Acupuncture) is a lovely little oasis in the middle of the financial district and once she'd checked my pulse and my tongue (don't eat purple lollipops before you go), lay me down on a massage-like table and...well half an hour later she woke me up. Yes, I know, one would never think laying on the table with needles stuck in your hands and feet would be relaxing but she also hits some kind of relaxation meridian so it's inevitable! Two treatments later, and my foot is completely back to normal! I even cancelled my third appointment as I really felt great. As for Ms. Taylor, she has a gentle touch, a reassuring grace, and is warm and friendly. If (I should say when, really) I am in pain again, I will see her again - I have her number on speed dial!

I started coming to Kristen after my insurance company forced me to switch from my original…read moreacupuncturist (screw you, Blue Shield of CA!). Although I loved my previous provider, I wound up very happy with the transition (although I still hate Blue Shield). I originally went to Kristen with upper back/shoulder/neck pain, and she was able to give me significant relief after just one session. After several sessions, I felt like the problem was completely under control. Later, I wound up having a severe and seemingly unrelated lower back issue, and came to her barely able to walk. By the time I left her office, I felt immensely better. Kristen is extremely thorough and diligent, and she's also very personable. I will definitely continue going to her in the future, and will unreservedly recommend her to anyone I know in need of acupuncture.

Double Happiness Health

4.9

(113 reviews)

I recently discovered this place and have been really happy with both the service and the level of…read morecare they provide. I've mainly had facials with acupuncture, and I've had a great experience so far. The staff is attentive, professional, and genuinely cares about their clients. I would definitely recommend this place!

Lovely holistic health & acupuncture clinic in the Mission…read more It's hard to hold healing space among all the energy colliding around this area; DHH clinic must be such a gift to the neighborhood even if direct neighbors aren't clients (yet). My session was with Ilana, and she gave the most PAINLESS treatment. I barely noticed even a hint of pressure. Ilana was very sweet, careful, and knowledgeable. I get acupuncture every 5 days or so, and since my normal DACM was away for holidays, I was happy to try Double Happiness for a trial. Some practitioners use more needles; Double Happiness seems more pared down, minimal needles, simpler more focused treatments. Depending on your constitution / relationship w qi, you may take better to one over the other. I have been receiving hundreds of acupuncture sessions at this point, and I know what works for me: sometimes my body will ping a point that needs attention. Unfortunately we weren't able to do those points this session. I felt a bit rushed and think the intake and payments process can be streamlined better; am unlikely to return for these three reasons, but acupuncture is a subjective experience and you just have to find the right practitioner for you. Some acupuncturists can simply be LIFE CHANGING. Despite not being the right fit for me, I hope Double Happiness thrives in the neighborhood, and I think this clinic is so needed in the city. Beautiful clinic and a beautiful offering.

Moss Acupuncture

4.9

(31 reviews)

Mia Mia Mia ! You have changed my life…read more I found Mia through Yelp when I was just moving to SF from NYC, an overtaxed Founder / CEO of my company with insomnia, aches and pains, and all kinds of stress manifestations in my body. Mia is infinitely patient, knowledgeable, and kind. Her acupuncture treatments are a mini retreat for the mind and body, and I literally would not have my sanity (or continue to run my company) without them. I no longer have aches and pains, and I am looking and feeling better than I have in 10 years. I go to her ~1 / week, depending on my travel schedule, and it is the physical and energetic grounding and reset button that my body and mind need to feel and perform at my best. I couldn't recommend Mia or Moss Acupuncture more highly!

I got acupuncture to help with my fertility. Jen said it would take 3 months to get pregnant with…read moreacupuncture and exactly at 3 months I got pregnant! More than anything she set up a very nice environment and was so good at listening to my ailments and adjusting to my needs whether I was feeling sick, low energy, feeling super overwhelmed, etc. I would highly recommend her practice!

Traci Kanzawa, LAc - Zone Acupuncture

(28 reviews)

I generally don't write reviews here, but I have been so impressed with Traci's professionalism,…read moregrace, and kindness, and the effectiveness of her treatment, that I just had to say something. So why am I not surprised by the unanimity I find among these other reviews? If you are considering acupuncture or zone therapy as a modality to address your needs, or even if you are just in search of healing, somehow, some way, you should make an appointment with Traci and you'll find the answer to that question. Please read what John S. has to say for a catalog of specifics, but what I'll add is that Traci is laser-focused on treating the whole person. That may sound like a contradiction, but Traci consistently goes beyond dealing with specific, narrow conditions (I came to her with post-chemo neuropathy in my hands and feet which we have effectively erased) and insures that every aspect of your health moves in the direction of well-being. I have never felt as healthy, overall, as I do now after seeing Traci for the last seven months. Beyond her treatment and therapy, my experience has been that all the things you read here about Traci being calm, caring, empathetic and uplifting are absolutely true, and have compounded the value of my experience. Finally, I can't resist saying that her location (in the way-cool Mechanics' Institute) is an island of calm . . . a place you feel healing begin just being there. Thank you, Traci!

Explained professionally. I believed in what she was doing and what I would be better. My ankel got…read morehealed.

Helen Health Restoration Clinic Center

4.6

(39 reviews)

She's good - real good!…read more I've been going through back pain since 2012 and found only 1 treatment plan that really worked for me - High Five Hand Therapy in Garden Grove. They employ the Graston technique which my body loves. But alas, the location is not exactly convenient for me. After researching a number of places which wanted to rob my insurance at astronomical prices for 15 min spurts, I found Helen and decided to try a different method of treatment. She uses a comprehensive approach which combines acupuncture, moxibustion, acupressure and cupping. I was initially opposed to the acupuncture portion due to negative, ineffective past experiences but she does it so well. 4 needles and the pain near my ribs that was plaguing me from kickboxing for the past year is gone - LIKE WOW. The cupping was new to me and the suction was painful, even with my high threshold for pain, but worked wonders. Love it! Felt sore and beat up post session yet the results are undeniable. Haven't felt this good in a while after hydrating, a hot shower, nap and some soup. Prices are also reasonable for the amount of work done and the priceless relief from the chronic pain. Thanks, Helen! Will be seeing you on a regular.

This review is long overdue. I tried several deep tissue massage places before but none of them…read morefixed my back. luckily I found helen through yelp two years ago and I have been seeing Helen since. I usually get deep tissue massage, cupping therapy and acupuncture. She is simply amazing! I paid her a visit today and was really impressed by her newly renovated studio! Helen put a lot of thought into the renovation and the studio looks lovely and comfortable! I love the artwork, lighting fixtures, and new furniture. If you haven't seen her after fourth of july, you should go!

Chinese Hospital East West Health Services - San Francisco

4.4

(27 reviews)

The only thing that has EVER helped my lower back pain from a car accident has been acupuncture…read more This place is amazing... clean, fast, friendly and convenient.

Been going to the EWHS clinic in Chinatown and Daly City for over a decade and had many many…read moreexcellent Chinese Medicine practitioners through the years. Recently, they gutted the EWHS and fired most of the practitioners. I was told they went from ten practitioners down to four. Four people for Chinatown and Daly City clinics. Now, if you can get an appointment, it is unlikely you'll get a timely follow up. And who wants to get treatments from overworked, stressed out people?! My sense was that practitioners always had a packed schedule but the attitude has shifted and they do not seem happy anymore. EHS was the reason for choosing CCHP insurance year after year. This open enrollment I will probably choose differently.

The Lotus Center

4.7

(31 reviews)

When I walked into Lotus I was a newbie to acupuncture with an enthusiastic referral to see Tamara…read moreBrown. She is amazing. She listens to everything that is ailing me, and then does her best to "fix" my energy. She is sweet, caring, and warm, and is very knowledgeable. I've had only great experiences here at Lotus with Tamara. Herbs are reasonably priced, I don't have much to compare them to, but they seem reasonable. The rooms are warm and cozy, with soft relaxing music which puts me to sleep every time (gotta love nap time). The waiting room offers a nice selection of warm teas to sip on as you catch up on all the current affairs via People Magazine. Oh, and they take insurance and have a sliding scale payment for those of us who don't have insurance to cover acupuncture. Definitely a 5 star experience.

I wait at a bus stop in front of this store quite often but I've never really had time to stop in…read more The one time I did, I arrived quite eagerly. Better put, i was present and my disposition was one of eagerness. But my inquiries received little to no response. The woman who was at the front desk, who is likely the owner, barely looked at me while she was talking and offered one or two word answers with absolutely zero help. It was obvious she either didn't want my business or did not think I was a serious potential customer (maybe because I'm a "bus person"?) Frustrated, I saw some business cards and asked for one. Again - no help. No "selling" her store to me. Nothing. I asked if there was a website or an email contact and she was like "yeah it's online"..... I just stared at her thinking... "um.... so that's it?" I walked out and didn't really say goodbye and she didn't really say goodbye either. I was pissed, and felt really overlooked and unseen. She had no idea how often I see clinicians and how much money I spend - which is ALOT. And I was there simply because I moved too far away from my previous person. Don't go here. Your business is appreciated at a bunch more local stores. I also guarantee if the woman read this review she will recall when this occurred because she has to know how inconsiderate she was acting that day.

Renée Hahn Acupuncture and Craniosacral Therapy

(34 reviews)

Dr. Renée Hahn is an incredibly bright, insightful, and gifted healer with great capacity for…read morenuance and depth. She was my first acupuncture visit in San Francisco, and I couldn't have chosen a better Doctor for my first visit in the city. Even though I'm no longer her patient, I recommend Dr. Hahn to any new first-time visitors to acupuncture or seasoned qi attuned persons or anybody dealing with health complexities. I totally trust Dr. Hahn's competence and think she is among the best in the region. Similar to how San Francisco-SF Bay retains top tech and innovation talent, we also have some of the best working in truly innovative healing arts - and Dr. Hahn's practice here is a testament to that. Highly recommend.

Dr. Hahn has provided me with excellent care for a variety of health issues. She's attentive and…read moreresponsive, and she really listens. I especially appreciate her willingness to provide a thoughtful complement to the Western-medicine treatments that I receive, rather than trying to replace them. If you're looking for a caring, capable practitioner of acupuncture or craniosacral therapy, I wouldn't hesitate to recommend Dr. Hahn.

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