Get Into the Island Spirit at Dong Ying Spa's New Location

At three-stories-tall, Dong Ying rises from the trees like a hidden fortress. Each location takes on a different style, and the newest branch is inspired by Southeast Asia. A life-size model of a peacock displayed by the window certainly captures the Bali spirit and a magnolia design decorates the floor, which is visibly raised to give you the feeling of walking along an island dock. The service is cheerful, well-organized, and most of all personal, putting even the most nervous client at ease.

Treat yourself to the Yunnan Hani herbal bath (RMB 396). The special blend of herbs is packed into a cloth bag, which is then steeped in bath water. The feeling is akin to floating in fragrant tea. Or choose the aromatherapy back massage (RMB 280). The spa uses Dr. Eberhardt’s essential oils, an Austrian line, which combines aromatherapy with TCM to soothe what ails you.

And for those who believe in putting “their best face forward,” try the Methode Brigitte Kettner (MBK) moisturizing facial treatment (RMB 480). Tailored to your skin type, the procedure not only removes dirt and other pore-clogging agents from your face, but also targets problem areas lurking in deeper epidermal layers. Walk out with your skin feeling softer and smoother than a peeled egg.

The staff at the spa treats you as though you are easily broken. “Careful,” they tell me as I walk along the marble hallway. “Watch your step.” Your beautician seems to predict your every need, moments in advance. If the herbal bath leaves you feeling parched, a glass of jasmine tea is always within reach. Hungry? A platter of small cakes magically appears. Such care and attention to your every move makes you feel like a precious jewel. And after one of their treatments, you’re liable to look exactly like how you feel. Dong Ying Spa will make even the most sarcastic of spa-goers use the word “pampered” without a trace of irony.

Dong Ying Spa. Daily 10am-10pm. 45 Xinyuan Lu, Liangmaqiao, Chaoyang District (8448 7268) 朝阳区亮马桥45新源路